Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies at University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus

This certificate delivers roughly median earnings compared to peers in Colorado, but here's what matters: you're paying $24,000 for credentials that produce $43,193 in first-year earnings—nearly $3,000 below the national average for these interdisciplinary programs. The 60th percentile state ranking sounds better than it is; there are only two Colorado schools offering this certificate, so you're essentially comparing against one other program.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.56 means your child would owe about half their first year's salary, which isn't catastrophic but represents a significant financial burden for what amounts to a sub-bachelor's credential. At 78% acceptance and with relatively accessible entry requirements, UC Denver isn't gatekeeping access—but neither is it launching graduates into strong earning positions. The 5th percentile national earnings ranking is particularly telling: 95% of similar programs elsewhere produce better financial outcomes.

For a certificate program, this is an expensive gamble. If your child needs this specific credential for career advancement at their current employer, that changes the calculation entirely. But as a standalone investment without that institutional backing, you're looking at mediocre earnings and substantial debt for a program type that typically serves as a career pivot tool rather than an earnings accelerator. Unless there's a compelling vocational reason tied to their existing career path, explore lower-cost alternatives or consider whether a full degree program might offer better returns.