Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at California State University-Chico

The $15,862 estimated debt for this interdisciplinary degree sits well below both the California median ($17,264) and the national figure ($25,495), which matters when first-year earnings based on comparable California programs hover around $40,400. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39 suggests graduates could reasonably manage payments while establishing themselves—a practical starting point for a broadly focused bachelor's degree.

What's less clear is the program's competitive positioning. Similar interdisciplinary programs in California show enormous variation, with some UC campuses and University of the Pacific graduates earning substantially more. However, at 94% admission and serving 40% Pell-eligible students, Chico State serves a different population than these selective alternatives. The estimated earnings align almost exactly with the state median for this field, suggesting neither an advantage nor a disadvantage compared to peer programs.

The fundamental challenge is that "interdisciplinary studies" covers vastly different career paths depending on how students customize their coursework. Without actual outcome data for Chico State's specific program, you're relying on statewide patterns that may not reflect this campus's particular approach or the connections its faculty have built. The debt picture looks manageable, but confirm what career services support exists and what employers typically hire from this program before committing.