Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies at National University

National University's interdisciplinary studies program shows an unusual pattern that might surprise cost-conscious families: graduates start near the bottom but experience one of the strongest income trajectories we see in this field. While first-year earnings of $34,012 trail the national median slightly, four-year earnings jump to $48,775—a 43% increase that represents genuine career acceleration. Among California's interdisciplinary programs, this ranks at the 60th percentile, placing it solidly above the state median of $32,452 and ahead of comparable programs at schools like Fresno State.

The debt picture tells two stories. At $33,094, graduates borrow more than typical for this major—landing in the 95th percentile nationally—which translates to a near 1:1 debt-to-earnings ratio in that challenging first year. However, by year four, when earnings approach $49,000, that debt burden becomes far more manageable. This matters because interdisciplinary studies graduates often need time to translate their broad skill set into higher-paying roles.

For families who can weather the initial lean years—perhaps through living at home or supplemental family support—this program's strong earnings growth makes the higher debt less concerning than it first appears. But if your student will be covering expenses entirely through loans from day one, that rocky first year could create real financial stress before the trajectory improves.