Median Earnings (1yr)
$39,530
72nd percentile (60th in MA)
Median Debt
$26,000
At national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.66
Manageable
Sample Size
104
Adequate data

Analysis

Fitchburg State's interdisciplinary studies program performs solidly above national standards while sitting right at the Massachusetts median—a respectable outcome for a program that costs substantially less than most Bay State alternatives. First-year graduates earn $39,530, about 12% more than the national typical, and that climbs to $46,214 by year four. With $26,000 in debt (the national median), graduates face manageable repayment at 66 cents of debt per dollar earned—not spectacular, but workable.

The key advantage here is consistency: earnings grow steadily over the first four years, suggesting graduates develop marketable skills that translate to career progression. Ranking in the 60th percentile among Massachusetts programs means you're getting middle-of-the-pack outcomes in a high-cost state, which matters when many comparable programs charge private school tuition. The 90% admission rate makes this an accessible option for students who might not gain entry to more selective institutions.

For families concerned about return on investment, this program delivers predictable, modest returns rather than spectacular ones. It won't lead to six-figure earnings, but graduates aren't drowning in debt either. If your child needs the flexibility of an interdisciplinary major and you're prioritizing affordability within Massachusetts, this represents a reasonable choice—just set realistic salary expectations.

Where Fitchburg State University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all multi-/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally

Fitchburg State UniversityOther multi-/interdisciplinary studies programs

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 Fitchburg State University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Fitchburg State University graduates earn $40k, placing them in the 72th 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 (14 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Fitchburg State University$39,530$46,214$26,0000.66
National Median$35,282—$26,0000.74

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 Fitchburg State University, approximately 31% 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.

Sample Size: Based on 104 graduates with reported earnings and 142 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.