Analysis
Pepperdine charges private university prices but peer interdisciplinary programs in California suggest first-year earnings around $40,400—essentially matching the state median. The estimated debt of $22,875 is higher than California's typical $17,264 for these programs, though it remains manageable with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.57. What's concerning is the opportunity cost: California's top interdisciplinary programs produce vastly different outcomes, with UCLA graduates earning $46,000 and University of the Pacific reaching over $100,000.
The data suppression here means we can't see what Pepperdine's actual graduates achieve, which is particularly relevant given the selective nature of the school (1367 average SAT, 50% admission rate). Interdisciplinary studies programs vary enormously in their design and outcomes—some are strategic pre-professional paths while others function as general liberal arts degrees. Similar programs statewide suggest modest but stable earnings potential, and the debt load won't be crushing. Still, at a private university where total costs significantly exceed these estimates, families should understand they're paying premium tuition for outcomes that appear middle-of-the-road based on comparable California programs.
The safest interpretation: this looks like a solid but not exceptional investment if the interdisciplinary approach aligns with specific career goals your child has already identified and validated.
Where Pepperdine University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (50 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Pepperdine UniversityMalibu | $66,742 | $40,433* | — | $22,875* | — |
 University of the PacificStockton | $55,340 | $104,803* | $165,593 | $15,500* | 0.15 |
 University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles | $13,747 | $46,154* | $65,593 | $15,000* | 0.32 |
 California State Polytechnic University-HumboldtArcata | $7,913 | $45,490* | $38,755 | $18,196* | 0.40 |
 University of California-BerkeleyBerkeley | $14,850 | $45,461* | $76,643 | $14,500* | 0.32 |
 University of California-IrvineIrvine | $14,237 | $35,404* | $51,708 | $16,332* | 0.46 |
| 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 Pepperdine University, approximately 20% 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 median of 8 similar programs in CA. Actual outcomes may vary.