Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies at Los Angeles Pacific University

A $26,500 debt load for first-year earnings around $35,000 puts this program roughly in line with similar interdisciplinary bachelor's degrees across the country—though the limited data from Los Angeles Pacific means we're relying heavily on what peer programs produce rather than actual outcomes from this campus. Nationally, interdisciplinary studies programs cluster tightly around these figures, suggesting this is the realistic earning potential for this broad-based degree.

What's worth noting is how modest these returns are for California, where living costs run considerably higher than most states. Comparable interdisciplinary programs in the state actually show slightly lower earnings—around $32,500—which means this estimate, if accurate, would represent decent performance relative to California peers. Still, monthly debt payments of roughly $300 against take-home pay from a $35,000 salary will be tight in the LA area, particularly for the 48% of students here receiving Pell grants who likely have limited family financial cushion.

The fundamental challenge with interdisciplinary studies is that it's designed for flexibility, not career focus—and employers typically pay for specific skills rather than broad educational foundations. Unless your child has a clear plan for how this degree connects to their career goals, the debt-to-earnings ratio suggests you'll be financing general education at private school prices. Push for specifics about their post-graduation plans before committing.