Analysis
Looking at this bachelor's program raises immediate questions, since comparable Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies degrees in Arkansas typically produce first-year earnings around $56,000—nearly 45% higher than what peer programs nationally suggest this one might deliver. That's a substantial gap that puts University of Arkansas at Monticello's estimated outcomes closer to Arkansas Tech's reported $37,760 than to the state median.
The debt picture offers some relief: an estimated $20,166 is manageable relative to the $38,704 in projected earnings, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.52. This is well below the concerning 1.0 threshold and beats the national median debt of $25,495 for similar programs. For a school where half the students receive Pell grants, keeping borrowing this controlled matters considerably.
The real uncertainty here is whether this interdisciplinary program will track closer to Arkansas's stronger outcomes or the national average. Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies degrees vary wildly depending on what concentrations they include and how well they align with regional job markets. Before committing, your child should investigate what specific tracks this program offers, what Arkansas employers actually hire for with these credentials, and whether the program's career placement matches its in-state competitors. The debt won't sink them, but understanding where graduates actually land professionally will determine if this represents a solid investment or just an affordable one.
Where University of Arkansas at Monticello Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Arkansas
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Arkansas (12 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,868 | $38,704* | — | $20,166* | — | |
| $8,280 | $74,432* | $83,184 | $9,625* | 0.13 | |
| $8,508 | $37,760* | $39,367 | $34,046* | 0.90 | |
| 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 University of Arkansas at Monticello, approximately 49% 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 196 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.