Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
California State University-San Marcos's interdisciplinary studies program appears to offer a financially manageable path into the workforce, though the lack of school-specific data means you're looking at educated guesses rather than confirmed outcomes. Based on similar programs across California, graduates might expect around $40,400 in first-year earnings while carrying roughly $15,900 in debt—a ratio that keeps monthly payments within reach at about 10% of gross income. Nearly half the student body receives Pell grants, suggesting this program serves as an accessible option for students who need affordability.
The challenge with interdisciplinary studies is understanding what exactly it prepares graduates to do. These programs can be valuable for students with clear career plans who need flexibility to combine majors, but they can also attract students who haven't settled on a direction. The estimated earnings align closely with the California median for these programs, which is actually above the national benchmark. However, look at the range among California schools: some interdisciplinary programs produce graduates earning $100,000+, while others yield earnings below $40,000. That variance often reflects whether students used the flexibility strategically or drifted through without focus.
Your child should be able to articulate what specific combination of disciplines they're pursuing and why—and more importantly, what job they're preparing for. Without that clarity, even manageable debt becomes questionable when career direction remains uncertain after graduation.
Where California State University-San Marcos Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (50 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 California State University-San MarcosSan Marcos | $7,739 | $40,433* | — | $15,862* | — |
 University of the PacificStockton | $55,340 | $104,803* | $165,593 | $15,500* | 0.15 |
 University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles | $13,747 | $46,154* | $65,593 | $15,000* | 0.32 |
 California State Polytechnic University-HumboldtArcata | $7,913 | $45,490* | $38,755 | $18,196* | 0.40 |
 University of California-BerkeleyBerkeley | $14,850 | $45,461* | $76,643 | $14,500* | 0.32 |
 University of California-IrvineIrvine | $14,237 | $35,404* | $51,708 | $16,332* | 0.46 |
| 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 California State University-San Marcos, approximately 44% 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 8 similar programs in CA. Actual outcomes may vary.