Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at Saint Cloud State University

Saint Cloud State's interdisciplinary studies program delivers solid short-term outcomes—placing graduates right at Minnesota's median for the major—but the subsequent earnings trajectory should give families pause. While first-year earnings of $42,192 beat the national benchmark by 9%, four years later graduates are earning just $44,070, barely outpacing inflation. That modest 5% growth lags far behind what you'd hope to see in a bachelor's degree holder's early career.

The debt picture, however, offers genuine reassurance. At $28,551, borrowers carry about $1,500 less than typical Minnesota graduates in this field and rank in the 21st percentile nationally—meaning 79% of similar programs burden students with more debt. The 0.68 debt-to-earnings ratio sits in manageable territory, even if those earnings aren't climbing quickly. Minnesota families comparing options should note that U of M-Crookston and Metropolitan State both deliver substantially higher earnings ($54,656 and $49,751 respectively), though accessibility and individual circumstances certainly matter.

The fundamental question is whether moderate debt paired with stagnant earnings creates the financial foundation your family envisions. This program won't sink your child in debt, but it also won't provide the earning power or career momentum typically expected from a four-year degree. For students attracted to interdisciplinary work, investigating why earnings plateau so early—and whether specific concentrations within the major perform differently—would be time well spent.