Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at Chowan University

Chowan University's Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies program produces concerning financial outcomes that place it among the weakest performers both nationally and within North Carolina. Graduates earn just $25,019 in their first year—about $7,600 less than the NC state median for this degree and a striking $13,600 below the national median. Even among North Carolina's 18 programs, this ranks only in the 25th percentile, meaning three-quarters of comparable in-state options deliver better results. Meanwhile, graduates carry $38,595 in debt, which is $9,000 above the state median and substantially higher than the national benchmark.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.54 means graduates owe more than one-and-a-half times what they earn in their entire first year—a difficult position for anyone trying to establish financial independence. While Chowan serves a predominantly Pell-eligible population (61%), which may partially explain lower earnings, the combination of below-average outcomes and above-average debt creates real repayment challenges. For context, UNC-Pembroke graduates with the same degree earn nearly $40,000 while carrying similar or less debt.

For families considering this program, the numbers suggest looking at alternative NC schools offering Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies. Even modest improvements in starting salary—like Brevard College's $26,605—would make the debt burden more manageable, while top state performers nearly double Chowan's first-year earnings.