Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
Brown's ultra-selective admissions (5% acceptance rate, 1546 average SAT) create expectations that don't align with what comparable interdisciplinary programs typically deliver financially. Peer institutions offering similar bachelor's degrees report first-year earnings around $35,000—a figure that becomes more concerning when paired with an estimated $26,500 in debt for students who need to borrow. That 0.75 debt-to-earnings ratio isn't disastrous, but it means students would be dedicating a substantial portion of their early-career income to loan payments.
The challenge with interdisciplinary studies at any institution, including elite ones, is that the credential's breadth can make it harder for employers to slot graduates into clear career paths. When you're competing against classmates with Brown degrees in economics or computer science who launch at significantly higher salaries, the financial trajectory looks different. The modest first-year earnings from similar programs suggest many graduates pursue fields where a Brown pedigree matters less than specific technical skills or credentials.
For families paying full price at Brown, this program represents a luxury they may be able to afford—the intellectual exploration matters more than immediate ROI. But for students relying on loans, the numbers from peer programs suggest they'd be better served by Brown's more occupationally-focused majors that historically command stronger starting salaries.
Where Brown University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi-/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Brown UniversityProvidence | $68,230 | $35,282* | — | $26,500* | — |
 Lehigh UniversityBethlehem | $62,180 | $74,734* | $78,295 | $24,960* | 0.33 |
 Hodges UniversityFort Myers | $15,580 | $60,897* | $39,309 | —* | — |
 Indiana University-EastRichmond | $8,179 | $60,513* | — | —* | — |
 Marist UniversityPoughkeepsie | $46,140 | $57,906* | $58,631 | $31,142* | 0.54 |
 Park UniversityParkville | $16,400 | $50,454* | — | $23,369* | 0.46 |
| National Median | — | $35,282* | — | $26,000* | 0.74 |
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 Brown University, approximately 13% 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 55 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.