Analysis
Tennessee Tech's estimated debt load for this interdisciplinary bachelor's sits nearly $5,000 above what peer programs in Tennessee typically carry, while first-year earnings from comparable programs hover right at the state median of $37,246. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.75 means graduates would dedicate three-quarters of their first year's salary to loan balances—a heavier burden than the typical Tennessee program in this field suggests is necessary.
The challenge with interdisciplinary studies is that it's inherently broad, and these estimates—drawn from six similar Tennessee programs—can't tell you how Tennessee Tech's specific curriculum translates to job market outcomes. What we do know is that similar programs across Tennessee cluster tightly in the $32,000-$38,000 range for first-year earnings, with little variation even between a regional university like UT-Martin and a private school like Vanderbilt. That narrow band suggests the degree itself may matter less than what students do with it—internships, double majors, or clear career pathways.
The elevated debt estimate is the concern here. If Tennessee Tech's actual outcomes mirror these projections, graduates would face a tougher financial start than counterparts at programs carrying the state's median debt of $23,250. Before committing, you'd want to understand exactly what makes this interdisciplinary program distinct and whether Tennessee Tech provides the career support structure to justify carrying higher-than-typical debt into what's essentially a general studies credential.
Where Tennessee Technological University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Tennessee
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Tennessee (20 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Tennessee Technological UniversityCookeville | $10,084 | $37,247* | — | $27,875* | — |
 Middle Tennessee State UniversityMurfreesboro | $9,506 | $38,272* | $38,553 | $26,000* | 0.68 |
 Vanderbilt UniversityNashville | $63,946 | $37,276* | $60,205 | $12,000* | 0.32 |
 Belmont UniversityNashville | $41,320 | $37,264* | $47,428 | $20,500* | 0.55 |
 University of MemphisMemphis | $10,344 | $37,229* | $39,408 | $30,430* | 0.82 |
 The University of Tennessee-MartinMartin | $10,208 | $32,674* | $34,781 | $29,750* | 0.91 |
| 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 Tennessee Technological University, approximately 31% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 6 similar programs in TN. Actual outcomes may vary.