Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at Cerritos College

The estimated $16,812 in debt here sits well above the $13,023 national median for interdisciplinary associate's programs, which matters because California community colleges typically carry minimal debt loads—often under $10,000. While first-year earnings of roughly $36,000 (based on national comparables) don't look terrible against the debt, the four-year jump to $51,576 reveals the real story: this degree appears to function as a stepping stone rather than a terminal credential, with earnings nearly doubling by year four as graduates likely transfer or gain additional credentials.

The challenge for parents is that interdisciplinary studies programs vary wildly in their purpose and outcomes. Some prepare students for specific transfer pathways to four-year schools, while others serve students cobbling together credits toward any degree. The higher-than-typical debt combined with modest starting pay suggests this particular program may not be optimized for immediate workforce entry. With 35% of students receiving Pell grants, many families here are stretching to cover even community college costs, making that $16,812 figure more significant than it might appear.

If your student plans to transfer and complete a bachelor's degree, this could work as an affordable foundation—but verify that the interdisciplinary credits will actually transfer to their target schools. If they're stopping at the associate's level, programs with clearer career pathways and lower debt loads would likely serve them better.