Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at Hennepin Technical College

The debt picture here demands attention: $35,439 is dramatically higher than what similar interdisciplinary associate's programs typically carry. Nationally, the median debt for this credential sits at just $13,023, and even within Minnesota, comparable programs average $21,175. This program's debt load falls in the 5th percentile nationally—meaning 95% of similar programs nationwide leave students with less debt. That's a significant financial outlier for a two-year degree.

What makes this concerning is the estimated earnings trajectory. Based on national peer programs, first-year earnings hover around $36,000, creating a nearly dollar-for-dollar debt-to-earnings ratio. While interdisciplinary studies can serve as a flexible foundation, associate's-level graduates from similar programs across the country typically start at this modest salary level. When you're carrying debt that nearly matches your entire first-year income from a two-year program, the math gets difficult quickly—especially when the national norm for this credential involves roughly one-third the debt burden.

Before committing, demand clarity on why this program's debt is so much higher than peer institutions. Is it due to limited financial aid, program length, or something else? More importantly, understand that interdisciplinary studies at the associate's level often serves best as a stepping stone to further education or paired with specific career training. If your child isn't planning to continue toward a bachelor's degree or has a clear employment path, that debt load makes this a risky starting point.