Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
Based on peer programs in Pennsylvania, Marywood's interdisciplinary studies bachelor's appears to deliver outcomes right at the state median—estimated first-year earnings of $43,593 paired with $25,939 in debt. That 0.60 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests a manageable financial picture, with graduates theoretically able to dedicate about 6% of gross income to loan payments over a standard 10-year term. Pennsylvania's range for this degree is wide, from nearly $38,000 at some schools to over $72,000 at Drexel, so the middle-of-the-pack positioning neither excites nor alarms.
The challenge here isn't the numbers—it's the uncertainty. Small graduate cohorts mean the Department of Education can't publish actual outcomes, leaving families to rely on state medians from similar programs. Interdisciplinary studies degrees themselves vary wildly in focus and career preparation, making peer comparisons less reliable than in more standardized fields. What matters most is what specific concentration or skills your student builds through this program, not just the degree title on the transcript.
If this major genuinely fits your child's goals and Marywood offers strong advising to help translate an interdisciplinary degree into career readiness, the estimated debt load isn't prohibitive. But before committing, ask the school directly about graduate outcomes for recent cohorts—even anecdotal placement data would provide more clarity than statewide estimates can offer.
Where Marywood University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (45 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Marywood UniversityScranton | $39,570 | $43,593* | — | $25,939* | — |
 Drexel UniversityPhiladelphia | $60,663 | $72,174* | $82,021 | $25,878* | 0.36 |
 Franklin and Marshall CollegeLancaster | $68,380 | $43,593* | $60,796 | $19,875* | 0.46 |
 Moravian UniversityBethlehem | $52,000 | $37,824* | — | $27,000* | 0.71 |
| 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 Marywood University, approximately 29% 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 3 similar programs in PA. Actual outcomes may vary.