Analysis
San Diego State's Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies program posts earnings that lag behind three-quarters of similar programs nationally, with first-year graduates earning $33,165—about $5,000 less than typical California graduates in this field. The program ranks in just the 25th percentile statewide, meaning 75% of comparable California programs deliver stronger early-career outcomes. While the debt load of $15,862 is manageable, graduates start at wages that make even this modest amount feel heavier than it should.
The numbers improve modestly over time, with 19% earnings growth pushing median pay to $39,325 by year four. Yet this still falls short of what most interdisciplinary studies graduates earn right out of the gate elsewhere. For context, nearby UC schools produce graduates in this field earning $45,000+, while even University of the Pacific's program—admittedly an outlier—demonstrates what's possible at the high end.
The fundamental question is whether SDSU's 34% admission rate and established reputation justify these below-average outcomes in a program that, by its interdisciplinary nature, should open doors rather than limit them. If your child is drawn to this major specifically, look hard at what concentration or career path they're targeting—because without a clear plan, they're starting behind peers at most other California schools offering this degree.
Where San Diego State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How San Diego State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Diego State University | $33,165 | $39,325 | +19% |
| University of the Pacific | $104,803 | $165,593 | +58% |
| University of California-Berkeley | $45,461 | $76,643 | +69% |
| University of California-Los Angeles | $46,154 | $65,593 | +42% |
| University of California-Irvine | $35,404 | $51,708 | +46% |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 San Diego State UniversitySan Diego | $8,290 | $33,165 | $39,325 | $15,862 | 0.48 |
 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 San Diego State University, approximately 31% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 285 graduates with reported earnings and 296 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.