Analysis
Tarleton State's Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies program stands out nationally but faces stiff competition within Texas. While graduates earn significantly more than the national median ($48,381 vs. $38,704), placing them in the 82nd percentile nationwide, they land right at the Texas median—meaning half of similar programs in the state produce higher earnings.
The debt picture is reasonable with graduates owing $24,562, slightly below both national and state averages. This creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.51, meaning graduates can expect to earn roughly twice their debt load in their first year. However, earnings actually decline by 5% from year one to year four, dropping to $46,014—an unusual pattern that suggests graduates may start in higher-paying roles that don't offer strong advancement opportunities.
For Texas families, this program offers solid value compared to national alternatives but represents middle-of-the-pack performance in-state. The top Texas programs generate $10,000+ more in first-year earnings, which compounds significantly over a career. Given Tarleton's accessible 94% admission rate and reasonable debt levels, this works as a safe choice for students seeking a broad-based degree, but families should understand they're choosing stability over maximum earning potential within Texas.
Where Tarleton State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Tarleton State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tarleton State University | $48,381 | $46,014 | -5% |
| Texas Southern University | $57,511 | $53,527 | -7% |
| University of North Texas | $53,733 | $53,283 | -1% |
| University of Houston-Downtown | $49,734 | $53,235 | +7% |
| University of Houston | $56,904 | $53,107 | -7% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (55 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Tarleton State UniversityStephenville | $7,878 | $48,381 | $46,014 | $24,562 | 0.51 |
 Texas Southern UniversityHouston | $9,173 | $57,511 | $53,527 | $37,125 | 0.65 |
 University of HoustonHouston | $9,711 | $56,904 | $53,107 | $21,500 | 0.38 |
 University of Houston-Clear LakeHouston | $7,746 | $56,645 | $53,078 | $20,904 | 0.37 |
 Texas Woman's UniversityDenton | $8,648 | $54,038 | $51,475 | $21,668 | 0.40 |
 University of North TexasDenton | $11,164 | $53,733 | $53,283 | $23,573 | 0.44 |
| National Median | — | $38,704 | — | $25,495 | 0.66 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Tarleton State University, approximately 37% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 324 graduates with reported earnings and 346 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.