Analysis
A debt load near $26,000 against first-year earnings of roughly $35,000 creates a manageable but tight financial picture for Nevada State's interdisciplinary studies graduates—at least based on what similar bachelor's programs nationally suggest. The 0.74 debt-to-earnings ratio sits in workable territory, meaning graduates would dedicate about nine months of their first year's salary to student loans, but there's little cushion if actual outcomes fall short of these national estimates.
The challenge with interdisciplinary studies programs is their variability: they can prepare students for diverse careers in nonprofit work, government, or further education, but outcomes depend heavily on how students package their degree with internships, skills, and clear career direction. The estimated $35,000 starting salary represents the national middle ground for these programs—not particularly strong, but consistent with what these degrees typically deliver. Without Nevada-specific data to compare against, it's difficult to know whether this program leverages the state's economy effectively or whether graduates struggle in a job market that often favors more specialized credentials.
The reality is that Nevada State is too new to have reportable outcomes, so you're betting on whether this young institution can match what established interdisciplinary programs achieve elsewhere. If your student has a clear plan for translating this flexible degree into employment—perhaps combining it with a minor, certificate, or strong professional network—the debt level won't be crushing. If they're choosing it for its flexibility without a strategy, the modest earnings potential becomes riskier.
Where Nevada State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi-/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $6,368 | $35,282* | — | $25,996* | — | |
| $62,180 | $74,734* | $78,295 | $24,960* | 0.33 | |
| $15,580 | $60,897* | $39,309 | —* | — | |
| $8,179 | $60,513* | — | —* | — | |
| $46,140 | $57,906* | $58,631 | $31,142* | 0.54 | |
| $16,400 | $50,454* | — | $23,369* | 0.46 | |
| National Median | — | $35,282* | — | $26,000* | 0.74 |
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 Nevada State University, approximately 22% 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 national median of 55 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.