Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at Morningside University

Similar interdisciplinary programs in Iowa suggest first-year earnings around $37,000—which aligns with both state and national benchmarks for these broadly focused degrees. The estimated $25,878 debt load translates to a 0.70 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe roughly 70% of their first year's salary. That's manageable compared to many programs, but it matters considerably what career path your child actually pursues with this degree.

Interdisciplinary studies programs are intentionally flexible, which can be either strategic or unfocused depending on how students use them. The earnings floor and ceiling for this major vary dramatically—national data shows top programs reaching $46,000 while others lag well below $38,000. Much depends on whether your child combines this degree with internships, specific skill development, or clear career planning. Without that direction, the broad nature of the curriculum could leave them competing against more specialized graduates.

The uncertainty here cuts two ways: these estimates come from peer programs rather than Morningside's actual outcomes, so you're making decisions with limited visibility. If your child has a specific reason for choosing an interdisciplinary approach—combining business skills with environmental studies for sustainability work, for instance—this debt level won't derail them. But if they're choosing this major because they're undecided, they might achieve similar flexibility and better career positioning through a more traditional major at the same cost.