Analysis
Quinnipiac's interdisciplinary studies program sits at the national median for both debt and earnings—$26,000 borrowed against first-year earnings around $35,000. With no reported outcomes from Connecticut competitors to use as comparison, we're relying on national patterns that show this field typically produces modest early returns regardless of location. The 0.74 debt ratio is manageable but not generous, meaning graduates will likely face student loan payments around 7-9% of their take-home pay for a decade.
The challenge with interdisciplinary programs is they're designed for flexibility, which can translate to uncertainty in the job market. Employers often gravitate toward candidates with more defined expertise, and $35,000 first-year earnings reflect that reality. At a private institution where tuition runs considerably higher than public alternatives, $26,000 in debt represents relatively careful borrowing—students here are either paying significant amounts out-of-pocket or receiving substantial institutional aid.
For families considering this path, the question isn't whether the numbers are catastrophic (they're not), but whether this credential justifies private school costs when similar programs exist at lower price points. The degree offers broad thinking skills valued in some workplaces, but graduates should enter with clear plans for translating an interdisciplinary background into specific career opportunities rather than hoping the flexibility alone will open doors.
Where Quinnipiac 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $53,090 | $35,282* | — | $26,000 | — | |
| $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 Quinnipiac University, approximately 16% 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.