Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies at King University

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.75—which translates to roughly nine months of first-year salary to cover the estimated $26,500 in student debt—puts King University's interdisciplinary studies bachelor's in a workable position compared to many liberal arts programs. Based on comparable programs nationally, graduates typically earn around $35,000 in their first year, which aligns exactly with the national median for this degree. That consistency across similar programs suggests a fairly predictable outcome, though it's worth noting that interdisciplinary studies degrees can lead to very different career paths depending on how students focus their coursework.

The challenge with this program type is less about the debt burden—which appears manageable for a private university—and more about career trajectory. Interdisciplinary degrees offer flexibility but often require graduates to clearly articulate their skills to employers, and first-year earnings in the mid-$30,000s don't leave much cushion while establishing that career narrative. With 42% of King students receiving Pell grants, the financial margin matters significantly.

For families weighing this investment, the key question is whether your student has a specific career path in mind that values interdisciplinary thinking, or whether they're choosing this major because they're undecided. If it's the latter, exploring more defined programs—even at schools with higher sticker prices but stronger placement outcomes—might deliver better value than estimated outcomes suggest this degree will.