Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at Emmanuel College
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Emmanuel College's interdisciplinary studies program lands squarely in the middle of the pack nationally but struggles to compete within Massachusetts. While graduates earn $41,346 in their first year—slightly above the national median—this puts them in just the 40th percentile among Bay State schools. In a region where Boston University's interdisciplinary graduates earn $54,456 and UMass-Amherst reaches $47,762, Emmanuel's outcomes look modest. The $27,000 median debt is reasonable at 0.65 times first-year earnings, though it doesn't offset the earnings gap with stronger in-state alternatives.
The 13% earnings growth over four years is decent, bringing graduates to $46,631—essentially matching the national 75th percentile. This suggests the program provides a stable foundation rather than a high-growth trajectory. For families prioritizing staying in Boston, Emmanuel offers an accessible entry point (81% admission rate) with manageable debt. However, if your child qualifies for more selective Massachusetts schools, those programs deliver materially better financial outcomes.
The bottom line: This works as a safe financial bet—debt stays manageable and earnings grow steadily. But Massachusetts families should compare offers carefully, as several state schools provide similar accessibility with stronger earning potential. The value proposition depends heavily on whether your child has better in-state options on the table.
Where Emmanuel College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Emmanuel College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Emmanuel College graduates earn $41k, placing them in the 59th percentile of all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (27 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emmanuel College | $41,346 | $46,631 | $27,000 | 0.65 |
| Boston University | $54,456 | — | $22,625 | 0.42 |
| Brandeis University | $51,615 | — | — | — |
| University of Massachusetts-Amherst | $47,762 | $46,113 | $29,309 | 0.61 |
| College of the Holy Cross | $41,820 | $48,040 | $27,000 | 0.65 |
| Emerson College | $39,183 | — | $25,987 | 0.66 |
| National Median | $38,704 | — | $25,495 | 0.66 |
Other Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies Programs in Massachusetts
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Massachusetts schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boston University Boston | $65,168 | $54,456 | $22,625 |
| Brandeis University Waltham | $64,946 | $51,615 | — |
| University of Massachusetts-Amherst Amherst | $17,357 | $47,762 | $29,309 |
| College of the Holy Cross Worcester | $60,850 | $41,820 | $27,000 |
| Emerson College Boston | $55,392 | $39,183 | $25,987 |
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 Emmanuel College, approximately 20% 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.