Analysis
Comparable multi/interdisciplinary bachelor's programs nationally suggest first-year earnings around $38,700 with debt near $25,900—figures that look considerably weaker when you see that similar programs across Arkansas typically produce median earnings of $56,100 with lower debt loads of $20,200. The state comparison is particularly striking: University of Arkansas Grantham graduates earn nearly double what peer programs nationally indicate, while Arkansas Tech sits closer to the national baseline. Without actual reported outcomes for University of the Ozarks specifically, it's impossible to know where this program falls within Arkansas's wide range.
The 0.67 debt-to-earnings ratio based on national figures isn't alarming on its face—you'd pay back roughly two-thirds of a year's salary. But if Arkansas's state median is more representative of regional opportunities, you might be looking at significantly better prospects elsewhere in-state. The 36% Pell grant rate suggests many families here are price-sensitive, making these debt levels meaningful even if manageable by standard metrics.
Given the uncertainty, investigate what other Arkansas families with graduates from this program actually experienced. The gap between state and national benchmarks is too substantial to ignore, and you need to understand whether University of the Ozarks tracks closer to Arkansas's stronger outcomes or the weaker national pattern before committing to this debt load.
Where University of the Ozarks 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $25,950 | $38,704* | — | $25,878* | — | |
| $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 the Ozarks, 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.
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.