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Best Value Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies Colleges in Tennessee

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Tennessee's interdisciplinary programs span a remarkable $21,797 cost difference, from UT-Martin's $10,299 net price to Belmont's $32,096. This spread reflects the state's mix of affordable public options and specialized private institutions serving students who combine multiple fields of study. Vanderbilt stands out with $41,007 median earnings and a 92.7% graduation rate, though its $19,040 net cost after aid represents significant value for those who gain admission. The state's economy, anchored by healthcare giant HCA and Nashville's music industry, creates natural demand for graduates who can bridge disciplines like business and creative arts or healthcare and technology. Public universities like Middle Tennessee State deliver strong returns at $12,599 net cost with $29,350 earnings, while private options like Tennessee Wesleyan offer similar earning potential at $14,879. With no state income tax boosting take-home pay and the Tennessee Promise covering community college costs, students can build interdisciplinary foundations affordably before transferring to complete specialized degrees that serve the state's growing sectors.
20
Programs
$10,299 – $32,096
Net Price Range
$33,759
Avg. Program Earnings
55.2%
Avg. Graduation Rate

20 Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $10,299 $27,753 $10,208 54.8% 88.4%
2 $14,879 $36,560 $29,264 43.6% 60.7%
3 $12,599 $29,350 $9,506 54.0% 72.5%
4 $13,253 $30,564 $10,344 49.4% 94.6%
5 $19,040 $41,007 $63,946 92.7% 6.7%
6 $20,082 $36,668 $25,000 68.4% 91.2%
7 $26,815 $44,590 $38,450 70.9% 52.6%
8 $18,109 $26,353 $13,484 73.5% 68.4%
9 $32,096 $30,988 $41,320 71.7% 96.3%
10 $27,498 $53,698 82.4% 52.3%
11 $22,874 $28,500 30.5% 81.1%
12 $14,459 $29,790 54.8% 70.9%
13 $14,207 $10,084 54.2% 78.1%
14 $24,334 $25,590 51.4% 65.8%
15 $20,986 $38,514 47.2% 69.5%
16 $20,399 $22,690 60.7% 72.6%
17 $14,494 $11,790 17.0%
18 $23,508 $34,800 46.4% 60.8%
19 $18,661 $34,700 46.4% 79.8%
20 $21,803 $18,168 34.9% 88.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the wide gap between Vanderbilt's 92.7% graduation rate and other Tennessee schools?

Vanderbilt's strong 92.7% completion rate towers over most Tennessee institutions, where rates typically range from 30% to 73%. The university's $19,040 net price after substantial financial aid attracts top students while providing support systems that other schools struggle to match. This completion advantage translates directly to higher earnings, with Vanderbilt graduates earning $41,007 compared to the state average around $30,000.

How do public university costs compare for Tennessee residents versus out-of-state students?

Tennessee residents save significantly at public institutions, with in-state tuition ranging from $9,506 at Middle Tennessee State to $13,484 at UT-Knoxville. Out-of-state students face net prices of $12,599 to $18,109 at the same schools. The differential makes Tennessee public universities particularly attractive for residents, especially given median earnings of $26,353 to $30,564 for interdisciplinary graduates.

Is Union University worth its $26,815 cost given the earnings potential?

Union University justifies its $26,815 net price with the highest median earnings in the state at $44,590 for interdisciplinary graduates. The 70.9% graduation rate ranks among Tennessee's best, and graduates earn roughly $15,000 more annually than typical state university alumni. This premium translates to significant lifetime earnings that can offset the higher upfront investment.

Does the Tennessee Promise program benefit interdisciplinary students?

The Tennessee Promise covers community college tuition for recent high school graduates, creating a pathway for interdisciplinary students to complete general requirements affordably before transferring. Students can save approximately $8,000 to $12,000 in foundational coursework costs compared to starting directly at four-year institutions. This approach particularly benefits those exploring multiple fields before committing to specialized interdisciplinary programs.

Where do interdisciplinary graduates find the best job markets in Tennessee?

Nashville's healthcare and music industries create strong demand for graduates who combine business, technology, and creative skills. Memphis offers opportunities in logistics and healthcare, while Knoxville's research corridor values interdisciplinary approaches to engineering and science. The state's lack of income tax means graduates keep more of their $26,353 to $44,590 median earnings compared to neighboring states with income taxes.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.