Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies at Northwest University

The $26,000 in debt here sits right at the national median for interdisciplinary bachelor's programs, but it's the earnings estimate that demands attention. Based on comparable programs across Washington, first-year earnings around $39,520 would place Northwest graduates slightly above the national median for this degree—though with only six schools offering this program statewide and suppressed data at this institution, there's meaningful uncertainty about what graduates specifically from this program actually earn.

The 0.66 debt-to-earnings ratio looks manageable on paper, suggesting graduates could theoretically repay their loans within a year of gross earnings. However, interdisciplinary studies degrees are notoriously broad, and outcomes can swing dramatically based on what students actually do with the credential—whether it serves as preparation for graduate school, a complement to career experience, or a standalone qualification. The estimated figures here reflect a composite picture from peer programs that may not capture Northwest's particular approach or student population.

For anxious parents, this creates a real dilemma: you're being asked to trust estimated numbers for a program type known for variable outcomes. The debt burden itself isn't alarming, but without actual earnings data from Northwest's graduates, you can't know whether this specific program delivers on the peer-program promise. If your student has a clear plan for leveraging this degree—graduate school applications, professional development, or a specific career path—the modest debt makes it less risky. Without that clarity, you're essentially betting that Northwest's outcomes mirror the state average rather than fall below it.