Analysis
Franklin University's interdisciplinary bachelor's program sits right at Ohio's median for this field, with estimated first-year earnings of $38,266. That figure comes from nine comparable programs across the state, suggesting a relatively consistent employment picture for interdisciplinary graduates in Ohio. The estimated debt of $25,878—derived from similar private nonprofit programs nationally—would consume about two-thirds of that first year's salary, a manageable but not trivial burden that would require careful budgeting in those early career years.
What's worth noting is how tightly clustered Ohio's interdisciplinary programs are around this earnings level. Even top-performing programs like Miami University only reach about $39,500, meaning Franklin appears competitive within a state market that doesn't show dramatic variation. The school serves a substantial population of Pell-eligible students (33%), suggesting its value proposition may work particularly well for working adults seeking career advancement through flexible, broadly applicable credentials.
The limitation here is that we're working entirely with estimated figures—Franklin's actual graduate outcomes remain unknown due to small sample sizes. For families considering this path, the key question is whether an interdisciplinary degree aligns with specific career goals that justify near-$26,000 in debt. If your student has a clear plan for how this flexible credential opens doors in their target field, the numbers suggest a reasonable investment. Without that clarity, more specialized programs with transparent outcomes might offer greater certainty.
Where Franklin University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (26 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,577 | $38,266* | — | $25,878* | — | |
| $13,570 | $44,438* | $51,456 | $27,000* | 0.61 | |
| $6,554 | $44,438* | $51,456 | $27,000* | 0.61 | |
| $6,992 | $44,438* | $51,456 | $27,000* | 0.61 | |
| $17,809 | $39,484* | $42,994 | —* | — | |
| $41,788 | $38,266* | $36,237 | $33,544* | 0.88 | |
| National Median | — | $38,704* | — | $25,495* | 0.66 |
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 Franklin University, approximately 33% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 9 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.