Analysis
A Bachelor's in Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies from Loyola carries an estimated $28,200 in debt—figures drawn from similar private programs in Illinois—for first-year earnings that peer programs suggest hover around $35,300. That debt load isn't catastrophic, but it puts this degree at 80 cents of debt for every dollar earned in year one, which is higher than the comfortable zone most financial advisors recommend. Nationally, interdisciplinary studies programs produce median earnings of about $38,700, suggesting Loyola's estimated outcomes fall slightly below the national typical picture, though they align with Illinois state medians.
The challenge with interdisciplinary programs is they're intentionally broad, which can translate to career ambiguity. Some graduates leverage this flexibility brilliantly, but others struggle to articulate their value to employers compared to more specialized majors. The fact that Illinois programs span from $26,000 to over $50,000 in first-year earnings shows how much trajectory depends on what students do with the degree—internships, capstone projects, and how they package their skills matter enormously. Loyola's 81% admission rate and solid SAT average suggest a reasonably competitive environment, but the estimated debt-to-earnings picture here means your child would need a clear plan for translating this degree into employment.
If your student is considering this major at Loyola, push them to define their career goals now, not senior year. The estimated numbers suggest this path works better as a springboard to graduate school or when paired with strong professional connections than as a standalone credential for immediate earnings.
Where Loyola University Chicago Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Illinois
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Illinois (17 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Loyola University ChicagoChicago | $51,716 | $35,286* | — | $28,202* | — |
 Eastern Illinois UniversityCharleston | $13,403 | $50,862* | $53,724 | $22,033* | 0.43 |
 National Louis UniversityChicago | $12,345 | $38,765* | $42,929 | $28,202* | 0.73 |
 Roosevelt UniversityChicago | $20,280 | $31,806* | $38,422 | $28,474* | 0.90 |
 Columbia College ChicagoChicago | $32,520 | $25,999* | $38,547 | $27,000* | 1.04 |
| 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 Loyola University Chicago, approximately 23% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 4 similar programs in IL. Actual outcomes may vary.