Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at Texas State University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Texas State's Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies program delivers solid early earnings that significantly outpace national expectations, with graduates earning $49,240 in their first year—27% above the national median for this field. Among all such programs nationally, this ranks in the 85th percentile, making it a standout performer. However, within Texas, it sits closer to the middle of the pack at the 60th percentile, with several state universities delivering notably higher returns.
The debt picture is reasonable at $25,000, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.51. This means graduates typically owe about half their first-year salary, which is quite favorable compared to many bachelor's programs. The concerning element is the complete lack of earnings growth—graduates earn virtually the same four years out as they do immediately after graduation, suggesting limited career advancement potential in this field.
For parents, this program represents a relatively safe investment with decent immediate returns but questionable long-term growth prospects. Your child would likely secure steady employment quickly after graduation without crushing debt, but shouldn't expect significant salary increases over time. If your student is considering this path, you might want to explore programs at top Texas performers like University of Houston or Texas Southern, which deliver 15-17% higher earnings for similar debt levels.
Where Texas State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Texas State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Texas State University graduates earn $49k, placing them in the 85th percentile of all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (55 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas State University | $49,240 | $49,187 | $25,000 | 0.51 |
| Texas Southern University | $57,511 | $53,527 | $37,125 | 0.65 |
| University of Houston | $56,904 | $53,107 | $21,500 | 0.38 |
| University of Houston-Clear Lake | $56,645 | $53,078 | $20,904 | 0.37 |
| Texas Woman's University | $54,038 | $51,475 | $21,668 | 0.40 |
| University of North Texas | $53,733 | $53,283 | $23,573 | 0.44 |
| National Median | $38,704 | — | $25,495 | 0.66 |
Other Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies Programs in Texas
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Texas schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas Southern University Houston | $9,173 | $57,511 | $37,125 |
| University of Houston Houston | $9,711 | $56,904 | $21,500 |
| University of Houston-Clear Lake Houston | $7,746 | $56,645 | $20,904 |
| Texas Woman's University Denton | $8,648 | $54,038 | $21,668 |
| University of North Texas Denton | $11,164 | $53,733 | $23,573 |
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 Texas State University, approximately 36% 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 708 graduates with reported earnings and 768 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.