Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at Liberty University

Liberty University's interdisciplinary associate degree starts strong with first-year earnings of $38,805—about $2,800 above the national median for this program—but earnings slide to $36,018 by year four. That 7% decline is unusual for a two-year degree and worth understanding before committing. The $21,500 in median debt is significantly higher than the national typical $13,023, though the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.55 remains manageable compared to many programs. Interestingly, this is the only institution in Virginia reporting data for this specific associate program, making direct state comparisons impossible.

The strongest case for this program is the immediate earning power—it beats 61% of similar programs nationally right out of the gate. But that earnings reversal suggests graduates may be starting in positions without clear advancement paths, or perhaps the interdisciplinary nature creates initial opportunities that don't translate to long-term growth. The 99% admission rate and substantial Pell grant enrollment (39%) indicate Liberty serves many students who need accessible pathways, which matters if other options are limited.

If your child has a specific career goal in mind, a more focused associate degree might serve them better long-term. This makes most sense as an affordable credential for someone who knows exactly what they'll do with it—not as a exploratory degree hoping the job market will sort itself out. The higher debt load compared to similar programs deserves scrutiny given the earnings trajectory.