Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at Brigham Young University-Hawaii

Choosing an interdisciplinary bachelor's at BYU-Hawaii means navigating uncertainty in Hawaii's expensive market. Based on typical outcomes for interdisciplinary programs nationally, graduates might expect around $39,000 in first-year earnings—well below the $49,000 that Hawaii's other interdisciplinary programs report. That $10,000 gap matters significantly when you're living in one of the nation's most expensive states, where housing and basic costs can quickly consume a modest salary.

The estimated debt of roughly $26,000 isn't crushing by national standards, representing about eight months of projected earnings. However, University of Hawaii-West Oahu reports actual outcomes showing both higher earnings and lower debt for the same degree, suggesting BYU-Hawaii's interdisciplinary graduates may face a tougher financial position than necessary. This program's selective admission (38% acceptance rate) and moderate debt don't offset the core concern: peer programs in Hawaii demonstrate that stronger earnings are achievable in this field.

Before committing, recognize you're making decisions with limited visibility into this specific program's track record. The absence of reported data could reflect small graduating classes rather than poor outcomes, but you're essentially betting on a program that appears to underperform its state peers based on what comparable programs typically deliver.