Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at Mount St. Mary's University

Maryland's interdisciplinary studies programs show a wide range of outcomes, and Mount St. Mary's appears to land squarely in the middle. Similar programs across the state suggest first-year earnings around $38,000—identical to the national median for this degree. The $21,250 in debt sits exactly at Maryland's typical level for this field, though it places in the 77th percentile nationally, meaning only 23% of comparable programs nationwide leave graduates with higher debt burdens.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.56 is manageable by most standards—graduates would owe about half their first-year salary. However, the challenge with interdisciplinary degrees is that outcomes depend heavily on what students actually do with them. The earning estimates here reflect the median experience; students who leverage this flexible degree into specific career paths may do considerably better, while those who graduate without clear direction often struggle. The range among Maryland programs is telling: outcomes vary from $31,000 to $46,000 depending on the school and how students position themselves in the job market.

For families weighing this program, the debt level is reasonable but not exceptional, and the estimated earnings suggest an average return. The real question is whether your student has a clear plan for translating this flexible credential into employment. Without that clarity, the moderate debt could become a heavier burden than the numbers initially suggest.