Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at The University of the South

Similar Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies programs in Tennessee cluster tightly around $37,000 in first-year earnings—from Vanderbilt to regional public universities—suggesting this flexible degree path produces remarkably consistent early outcomes regardless of institutional prestige. The University of the South's program sits right in this pack based on state comparables, with estimated debt of roughly $26,000 putting the payback burden at just over eight months of gross earnings. That's manageable territory, especially for a private liberal arts college where the broader network and institutional resources often matter more than the credential itself.

The real question is what your child will do with this interdisciplinary degree. Programs like these attract students who either need maximum scheduling flexibility or are intentionally designing custom academic paths. The former tend to struggle more in the job market; the latter can thrive if they've built coherent skill sets and professional connections. At a selective school like Sewanee (SAT 1336, 51% admit rate), students typically have access to career services and alumni networks that help translate broad liberal arts training into employment—factors that matter enormously when your degree doesn't signal a specific profession.

Consider whether your child has a clear plan for translating this interdisciplinary focus into career direction. Without one, $26,000 in debt against $37,000 earnings becomes harder to justify, even at a debt ratio that looks reasonable on paper.