Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at University of Baltimore

The debt load here—an estimated $25,373—lands slightly above the state median for interdisciplinary bachelor's programs in Maryland, though first-year earnings of around $38,000 track closely with what comparable programs across the state produce. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.67 suggests graduates would need to dedicate roughly two-thirds of their first-year salary to debt if paying it off immediately, which is manageable but not comfortable.

What's harder to assess is where University of Baltimore's program sits within Maryland's competitive landscape. Top performers like Johns Hopkins place graduates above $46,000, while other state schools see outcomes ranging from $31,000 to $40,000. Interdisciplinary studies programs are notoriously variable—some prepare students for specific career paths, while others serve students patching together interests without a clear professional focus. With 43% of students receiving Pell grants, many UB students are using education as an economic ladder, which makes career positioning especially critical.

The core question is whether this particular interdisciplinary program connects to concrete job markets in Baltimore. Without actual outcome data for UB graduates specifically, you're relying on faith that the program delivers results similar to peer schools. Before committing, press the school for information about what graduates actually do after completion—not generic career services brochures, but real job titles and employers. The numbers suggest this could work financially, but only if the curriculum translates to employable skills.