Analysis
Similar interdisciplinary associate's programs in Alabama suggest graduates might earn around $36,000 in their first year—a figure that sits right at the state and national median for this credential. With estimated debt near $13,000, the math pencils out to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36, meaning roughly four months of pre-tax income to cover the total borrowing. That's reasonable compared to many programs, though comparable Alabama schools often see debt loads closer to $9,600.
The catch with interdisciplinary studies is understanding what it prepares students to do. Unlike nursing or welding, where the career path is clear, this degree's value depends heavily on how a student applies it—whether as a stepping stone to a bachelor's program, a credential for supervisory roles in existing work, or foundation for specific technical training. At Reid State, where nearly half of students receive Pell grants, this flexibility might appeal to working adults or students still exploring options, but it also means employment outcomes can vary widely.
Given the uncertainty around both the figures and the degree's practical application, parents should push for specifics: What jobs do graduates actually get? How many transfer successfully to four-year programs? The estimated numbers suggest affordability, but without knowing this program's actual track record at Reid State, you're making decisions in the dark about both cost and career outcomes.
Where Reid State Technical College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Alabama
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies associates's programs at peer institutions in Alabama (7 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Reid State Technical CollegeEvergreen | $6,100 | $35,979* | — | $13,012* | — |
 Lawson State Community CollegeBirmingham | $4,980 | $37,855* | — | —* | — |
 Northwest Shoals Community CollegeMuscle Shoals | $5,071 | $35,979* | — | $9,625* | 0.27 |
 Bishop State Community CollegeMobile | $5,280 | $34,306* | $21,114 | —* | — |
| National Median | — | $35,979* | — | $13,023* | 0.36 |
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 Reid State Technical College, approximately 46% 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 3 similar programs in AL. Actual outcomes may vary.