Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at Texas Southern University

Texas Southern's interdisciplinary studies graduates start strong at $57,511—beating 95% of similar programs nationwide and landing within striking distance of University of Houston's $56,904. For a school serving primarily low-income students (71% on Pell grants), these initial outcomes are genuinely impressive. However, the $37,125 debt load stands out as unusually high for this field, running 54% above the Texas median and 46% above the national benchmark.

The concerning pattern emerges in year four, when median earnings drop to $53,527. While still solid compared to most interdisciplinary programs elsewhere, this represents a 7% decline rather than the growth families typically expect. Combined with the elevated debt, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.65 means graduates are carrying nearly eight months of their annual income in loans—manageable but tighter than ideal. Within Texas, this program ranks in the 60th percentile, meaning graduates earn more than half their in-state peers but trail programs at UT Permian Basin and several others.

The value calculation here depends heavily on your child's alternatives. If they're gaining admission to University of Houston or UT Dallas with similar aid packages, those offer comparable earnings with likely lower debt. But if TSU provides significantly better financial aid or this program fits specific career goals in Houston's job market, the strong first-year earnings and moderate debt ratio make it workable—just plan for flat or declining income in the early years rather than steady growth.