Analysis
The estimated $26,000 in debt for this program falls right at the national median for interdisciplinary bachelor's degrees, but the projected first-year earnings of $35,282 leave little room for error. A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.74 means graduates would need to dedicate nearly three-quarters of their first year's income to eliminate debt entirely—a tight squeeze that could delay other financial goals. With over one-third of UT-Martin students receiving Pell grants, this debt load hits families who can least afford extended repayment periods.
The challenge with interdisciplinary studies is that outcomes depend heavily on how students package their coursework and what career path they pursue. These estimates, drawn from similar programs nationwide, suggest a typical graduate earns just under $36,000 in year one—not much cushion above the debt burden. While some interdisciplinary majors use this degree as a springboard to graduate school or leverage unique skill combinations into stronger careers, the baseline financial picture is modest. UT-Martin's accessible admission profile (87% acceptance rate) makes this a viable option for many Tennessee students, but the economics work best for those entering with minimal debt or a clear employment strategy.
For families weighing this option: the combination of estimated median-level debt and earnings means financial success likely depends on factors beyond the degree itself—internships, specific skill development, or geographic mobility. Without more targeted outcome data for this specific program, treat these figures as a starting point for deeper conversations about career plans and debt management.
Where The University of Tennessee-Martin Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi-/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 The University of Tennessee-MartinMartin | $10,208 | $35,282* | — | $25,996* | — |
 Lehigh UniversityBethlehem | $62,180 | $74,734* | $78,295 | $24,960* | 0.33 |
 Hodges UniversityFort Myers | $15,580 | $60,897* | $39,309 | —* | — |
 Indiana University-EastRichmond | $8,179 | $60,513* | — | —* | — |
 Marist UniversityPoughkeepsie | $46,140 | $57,906* | $58,631 | $31,142* | 0.54 |
 Park UniversityParkville | $16,400 | $50,454* | — | $23,369* | 0.46 |
| National Median | — | $35,282* | — | $26,000* | 0.74 |
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 University of Tennessee-Martin, approximately 34% 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 national median of 55 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.