Analysis
Liberty University's Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies program delivers solid financial outcomes with notably manageable debt levels. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.67, graduates typically earn enough in their first year ($42,284) to make loan payments quite manageable—well below the concerning 1.0+ ratios seen in many programs. The debt burden ranks in the 22nd percentile nationally, meaning 78% of similar programs saddle students with more debt.
However, the earnings picture is more nuanced. While graduates earn above the national median for this field (62nd percentile), they fall below Virginia's state median, ranking only in the 40th percentile among in-state options. Virginia programs typically produce stronger earnings ($46,359 median vs. Liberty's $42,284), and top state competitors like UVA and VCU significantly outperform Liberty. The modest 9% earnings growth over four years suggests limited career advancement potential in the early years.
For anxious parents, this program represents a financially safe choice—your child is very unlikely to face crushing debt burdens. But if maximizing earning potential is the priority and your child can gain admission elsewhere, stronger Virginia programs exist. Liberty works best for students who value the university's specific environment and approach while wanting reasonable financial outcomes, rather than those seeking to maximize career earnings potential.
Where Liberty University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Liberty University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberty University | $42,284 | $46,175 | +9% |
| University of Virginia-Main Campus | $52,463 | $61,339 | +17% |
| University of Richmond | $49,421 | $59,003 | +19% |
| William & Mary | $38,590 | $49,592 | +29% |
| Virginia Commonwealth University | $49,111 | $46,725 | -5% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Virginia
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Virginia (21 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $21,222 | $42,284 | $46,175 | $28,375 | 0.67 | |
| $20,986 | $52,463 | $61,339 | $26,700 | 0.51 | |
| $62,600 | $49,421 | $59,003 | $24,750 | 0.50 | |
| $16,458 | $49,111 | $46,725 | $25,125 | 0.51 | |
| $36,960 | $48,841 | $45,069 | $31,000 | 0.63 | |
| $12,262 | $46,359 | $46,300 | $27,000 | 0.58 | |
| 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 Liberty University, approximately 39% 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 1178 graduates with reported earnings and 1639 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.