Analysis
Pennsylvania's interdisciplinary studies programs typically produce earnings around $43,600 in the first year, which is where Albright's estimated outcomes land. With estimated debt of roughly $26,000, that puts graduates at a manageable 0.60 debt-to-earnings ratio—meaning debt equals about seven months of first-year income. Compared to the national median of $38,700 for these programs, Pennsylvania programs appear to hold their own, likely reflecting the state's mix of industries and proximity to major metro areas.
The challenge with interdisciplinary degrees is their variability: they're only as valuable as the specific combination of skills students develop and how well they articulate that value to employers. The wide range among Pennsylvania schools—from Drexel's $72,000 to Moravian's $37,800—shows that outcomes depend heavily on the particular focus areas, internship opportunities, and career services at each institution. Half of Albright's students receive Pell grants, suggesting many families are relying on this degree to provide economic mobility.
For an interdisciplinary major at Albright, the estimated numbers suggest the debt burden shouldn't be crushing, but families should verify what specific skills and credentials their student will graduate with. The degree's flexibility can be an asset or a liability depending on how intentionally it's structured—make sure your child can clearly explain their interdisciplinary focus to future employers, not just say they "studied a little of everything."
Where Albright College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (45 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $28,794 | $43,593* | — | $25,939* | — | |
| $60,663 | $72,174* | $82,021 | $25,878* | 0.36 | |
| $68,380 | $43,593* | $60,796 | $19,875* | 0.46 | |
| $52,000 | $37,824* | — | $27,000* | 0.71 | |
| 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 Albright College, approximately 50% 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 median of 3 similar programs in PA. Actual outcomes may vary.