Analysis
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.
Where The University of Texas Permian Basin Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How The University of Texas Permian Basin graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| The University of Texas Permian Basin | $53,109 | $48,204 | -9% |
| Texas Southern University | $57,511 | $53,527 | -7% |
| University of North Texas | $53,733 | $53,283 | -1% |
| University of Houston-Downtown | $49,734 | $53,235 | +7% |
| University of Houston | $56,904 | $53,107 | -7% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (55 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 The University of Texas Permian BasinOdessa | $10,904 | $53,109 | $48,204 | $17,750 | 0.33 |
 Texas Southern UniversityHouston | $9,173 | $57,511 | $53,527 | $37,125 | 0.65 |
 University of HoustonHouston | $9,711 | $56,904 | $53,107 | $21,500 | 0.38 |
 University of Houston-Clear LakeHouston | $7,746 | $56,645 | $53,078 | $20,904 | 0.37 |
 Texas Woman's UniversityDenton | $8,648 | $54,038 | $51,475 | $21,668 | 0.40 |
 University of North TexasDenton | $11,164 | $53,733 | $53,283 | $23,573 | 0.44 |
| 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 University of Texas Permian Basin, 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 28 graduates with reported earnings and 25 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.