Analysis
Nicholls State's interdisciplinary studies program produces starting salaries nearly $7,500 below Louisiana's median for this degree—landing at the 40th percentile statewide and just the 17th percentile nationally. While the $27,000 debt load matches Louisiana's average, it's protecting graduates from borrowing more for underwhelming outcomes. The real concern is the absolute earning level: $31,195 fresh out of college barely exceeds what many jobs require without a degree at all.
The 21% earnings growth to $37,721 by year four helps close the gap but still leaves graduates trailing both state and national benchmarks. Northwestern State's graduates in the same field earn $53,442—demonstrating that location and institutional resources matter significantly even within Louisiana. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.87 isn't alarming on paper, but it reflects modest borrowing for modest returns rather than a genuine value proposition.
For Louisiana families, this program sits squarely in the middle of the pack statewide but well below what similar degrees deliver elsewhere. If interdisciplinary studies is the path forward, understanding why this program underperforms comparable Louisiana options—and whether the specific coursework aligns with a clear career plan—becomes essential before committing four years and $27,000 in debt.
Where Nicholls State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Nicholls State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nicholls State University | $31,195 | $37,721 | +21% |
| University of New Orleans | $33,645 | $43,260 | +29% |
| Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College | $34,296 | $41,336 | +21% |
| Tulane University of Louisiana | $35,755 | $39,757 | +11% |
| Southern University and A & M College | $37,855 | $30,886 | -18% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Louisiana
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Louisiana (11 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Nicholls State UniversityThibodaux | $8,173 | $31,195 | $37,721 | $27,000 | 0.87 |
 Northwestern State University of LouisianaNatchitoches | $8,864 | $53,442 | — | $31,000 | 0.58 |
 Southern University Law CenterBaton Rouge | — | $37,855 | — | — | — |
 Southern University and A & M CollegeBaton Rouge | $9,940 | $37,855 | $30,886 | $43,250 | 1.14 |
 Tulane University of LouisianaNew Orleans | $65,538 | $35,755 | $39,757 | $19,250 | 0.54 |
 Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical CollegeBaton Rouge | $11,954 | $34,296 | $41,336 | $24,646 | 0.72 |
| National Median | — | $38,704 | — | $25,495 | 0.66 |
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 Nicholls State University, approximately 35% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 112 graduates with reported earnings and 135 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.