Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at New Mexico State University-Dona Ana

A debt load around $13,000 against first-year earnings near $36,000 produces a manageable ratio of 0.36—well within the comfort zone for an associate degree. Based on national patterns for interdisciplinary studies programs, graduates typically borrow less than half a year's salary, which suggests this credential shouldn't become a financial burden for most students.

The challenge with interdisciplinary studies is less about the numbers and more about what the degree actually prepares you to do. These programs often appeal to students with diverse interests or those transferring from multiple fields, but they can lack the clear career pathway of more specialized degrees. The estimated $36,000 first-year salary aligns with what similar programs produce nationally, placing graduates in entry-level administrative, support, or service roles rather than specialized professional positions.

For families at New Mexico State University-Dona Ana, where a third of students receive Pell grants, the relatively modest debt matters. If your child plans to transfer these credits toward a bachelor's degree, this could serve as an affordable stepping stone. If this is the terminal degree, have frank conversations about what specific jobs they're targeting and whether those employers value this particular credential over work experience or more focused training.