Analysis
First-year earnings around $38,700 for Regis's Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies degree align with national benchmarks, but Colorado programs in this field typically start higher—closer to $45,000. While the estimated $25,878 in debt is manageable at 0.67 times first-year earnings, the real concern is the earning trajectory. Even by year four, graduates reach just $47,626, which suggests limited income growth in a metro area where cost of living runs high.
The comparison with similar Colorado programs reveals the challenge. CU Boulder's interdisciplinary studies graduates start at $48,000, while Metro State's begin at $42,000—both ahead of what peer programs suggest for Regis. The gap matters in Denver's competitive job market, where that $4,000-7,000 difference translates to real purchasing power. Given that 26% of Regis students receive Pell grants, the constrained earning potential could affect students who need immediate financial traction after graduation.
The core question is whether this degree provides enough market value to justify private university pricing. With earnings tracking national medians rather than Colorado's stronger outcomes, and growth staying modest through year four, families should have frank conversations about career goals and whether a more focused major might deliver better returns on Regis's investment.
Where Regis University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regis University | — | $47,626 | — |
| University of the Pacific | $104,803 | $165,593 | +58% |
| Yale University | $45,769 | $104,899 | +129% |
| Thomas Edison State University | $88,629 | $95,807 | +8% |
| Metropolitan State University of Denver | $42,196 | $43,488 | +3% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Colorado
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Colorado (11 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Regis UniversityDenver | $43,980 | $38,704* | $47,626 | $25,878* | — |
 University of Colorado BoulderBoulder | $16,430 | $48,229* | — | $23,831* | 0.49 |
 Metropolitan State University of DenverDenver | $10,780 | $42,196* | $43,488 | $30,700* | 0.73 |
| 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 Regis University, approximately 26% 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 196 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.