Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at Columbia College Chicago

Columbia College Chicago's interdisciplinary studies program shows troubling outcomes, though the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could shift significantly with more data. At $25,999 in first-year earnings, graduates earn about $9,000 less than the Illinois median and rank in just the 5th percentile nationally—meaning 95% of comparable programs produce better earnings. While earnings do grow substantially (48% over four years), the fourth-year figure of $38,547 only barely catches up to what typical graduates from similar programs earn immediately.

The debt burden of $27,000 is close to typical, yielding a debt-to-earnings ratio just above 1.0. That's manageable if earnings were stronger, but starting at $26,000 means these loans will take longer to pay down than at better-performing programs. For context, Eastern Illinois University's interdisciplinary graduates earn nearly double ($50,862) with similar debt loads. Even Roosevelt University, another Chicago institution, produces first-year earnings 22% higher.

If your child is set on interdisciplinary studies in Illinois, understand that this program significantly underperforms state and national peers. The 48% earnings growth suggests career momentum eventually develops, but the low starting point creates years of financial struggle. With an admission rate above 90% and nearly half of students on Pell grants, Columbia serves students who may have limited alternatives—but that doesn't make this particular program a sound investment compared to other Illinois options.