Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at Eastern Illinois University

Eastern Illinois University's interdisciplinary studies program punches well above its weight class. Graduates earn a median of $50,862 right out of college—that's $15,000 more than the typical Illinois graduate in this field and ranking in the 80th percentile statewide. Nationally, it outperforms 91% of similar programs, which is remarkable for a school with a 68% admission rate and accessible to students from modest backgrounds.

The debt picture reinforces the value. At $22,033, graduates borrow about $5,500 less than the Illinois median for this major, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.43. That means students can realistically pay off their loans in under a year of focused repayment—among the better scenarios in higher education. Four-year earnings of $53,724 show steady if modest growth, suggesting stable career trajectories rather than dramatic upward mobility.

For parents weighing Illinois options, this program delivers substantially better outcomes than state competitors. The $15,000 earnings premium over the state median translates to real financial security, while the below-average debt load makes it a safer bet than most alternatives. If your student is interested in an interdisciplinary approach and can thrive at a mid-tier university, Eastern Illinois offers strong return on investment without requiring elite credentials for admission.