Analysis
UCF's Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies program delivers solid middle-of-the-pack performance with reasonable debt levels. With first-year earnings of $37,282, graduates earn about $2,000 more than the national average and $1,800 above Florida's median for this field. The program ranks in the 60th percentile both nationally and within Florida—respectable performance that puts it ahead of most competitors.
The debt picture is manageable at $24,700, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.66 that's well within reasonable bounds. While debt levels sit in the 67th percentile nationally (meaning higher than ideal), they're actually below Florida's median for this program type. The 15% earnings growth over four years suggests decent career progression, though the $42,841 four-year mark remains modest.
The reality is that Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies programs generally produce moderate earnings nationwide, and UCF's version performs about as expected. At a large, well-regarded state university with reasonable tuition costs, this represents a practical choice rather than a standout investment. For families prioritizing a broad-based degree at an established institution without excessive debt, UCF delivers what you'd expect—but don't anticipate dramatic financial returns.
Where University of Central Florida Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi-/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Central Florida 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Central Florida | $37,282 | $42,841 | +15% |
| University of North Florida | $29,021 | $44,717 | +54% |
| Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale | $40,975 | $44,494 | +9% |
| Florida Atlantic University | $34,957 | $42,957 | +23% |
| Hodges University | $60,897 | $39,309 | -35% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (19 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $6,368 | $37,282 | $42,841 | $24,700 | 0.66 | |
| $15,580 | $60,897 | $39,309 | — | — | |
| $42,304 | $41,524 | — | $29,319 | 0.71 | |
| $11,665 | $41,524 | — | $29,319 | 0.71 | |
| $24,136 | $40,975 | $44,494 | $41,026 | 1.00 | |
| $6,565 | $35,476 | — | $24,025 | 0.68 | |
| National Median | — | $35,282 | — | $26,000 | 0.74 |
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 University of Central Florida, approximately 33% 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 693 graduates with reported earnings and 794 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.