Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at The University of Texas Permian Basin

UT Permian Basin's multi/interdisciplinary studies program graduates start strong at $53,109—surpassing 95% of similar programs nationally and nearly matching top performers like Texas Southern and UNT. The debt load of $17,750 is exceptionally manageable, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.33 that beats most comparable programs. For families worried about student loans, this is genuinely impressive.

However, two factors demand attention. First, earnings actually decline to $48,204 by year four, which is unusual and suggests graduates may start in better-paying entry positions than they can sustain long-term. This could reflect the realities of Odessa's oil-dependent economy—strong initial opportunities that may not always last. Second, the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could shift significantly year to year and may not represent what your child would experience.

Within Texas, this program sits solidly in the middle of the pack at the 60th percentile—respectable but not elite. If your student is considering interdisciplinary studies and Permian Basin makes sense geographically or financially, the combination of low debt and strong starting salary makes this workable. Just understand that the four-year earnings picture raises questions about career trajectory that aren't fully answered here.