Analysis
Ohio's interdisciplinary studies programs show a remarkably tight earnings band, with most graduates starting around $38,000-$39,000 regardless of institution. Wooster's estimated figures place it squarely in this pack—similar programs across the state suggest first-year earnings of $38,266, while debt projections based on comparable private colleges point to roughly $26,000 in loans. That 0.68 debt-to-earnings ratio falls comfortably within manageable territory, meaning graduates would need to dedicate about eight months of gross income to clear their educational debt.
What remains uncertain is whether Wooster's stronger academic profile (1370 SAT, 54% admission rate) translates into better outcomes than these statewide estimates suggest. The university's selectivity and resources theoretically position graduates for stronger networks and opportunities, yet even top-tier programs in Ohio—including Miami University—report earnings in this same $38,000-$40,000 range. Interdisciplinary studies as a field simply doesn't command premium starting salaries, regardless of institutional prestige.
For a parent weighing options, the key question is whether a flexible liberal arts degree justifies Wooster's full cost of attendance. The estimated debt load is reasonable if it reflects actual borrowing, but verify this school's net price against your family's financial aid package. This is a program where the value derives more from what students do with the degree—graduate school, strategic internships, career pivoting—than from immediate post-graduation paychecks.
Where The College of Wooster Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (26 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 The College of WoosterWooster | $59,550 | $38,266* | — | $25,878* | — |
 University of Cincinnati-Main CampusCincinnati | $13,570 | $44,438* | $51,456 | $27,000* | 0.61 |
 University of Cincinnati-Clermont CollegeBatavia | $6,554 | $44,438* | $51,456 | $27,000* | 0.61 |
 University of Cincinnati-Blue Ash CollegeBlue Ash | $6,992 | $44,438* | $51,456 | $27,000* | 0.61 |
 Miami University-OxfordOxford | $17,809 | $39,484* | $42,994 | —* | — |
 Capital UniversityColumbus | $41,788 | $38,266* | $36,237 | $33,544* | 0.88 |
| 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 The College of Wooster, approximately 20% 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 9 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.