Analysis
Similar interdisciplinary bachelor's programs in California suggest first-year earnings around $40,400—right at the state median but below what students might hope for given an estimated $22,900 in debt. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.57 falls into manageable territory, but the broader concern here is the earning trajectory. While peer programs in this field typically produce modest but stable outcomes, University of La Verne serves a population where nearly half receive Pell grants, meaning many families have limited financial cushion if job prospects don't materialize quickly.
The comparison to other California interdisciplinary programs reveals the wide variance in this field—some UC campuses see graduates earning $45,000+, while La Verne's estimated outcomes align more closely with the middle of the pack. This isn't necessarily problematic if your child has clear career goals that this flexible degree can support, but interdisciplinary studies often lacks the direct professional pipeline of more focused majors. The estimated figures suggest competent but unremarkable returns.
For families weighing this investment, the key question is whether the interdisciplinary approach serves a specific purpose—perhaps combining business with the arts, or preparing for graduate school in a specialized field. Without that clear direction, $23,000 in debt for earnings that comparable programs suggest will hover around $40,000 means your child will likely manage payments but won't have much breathing room for other financial goals in those crucial first years after graduation.
Where University of La Verne Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $47,000 | $40,433* | — | $22,875* | — | |
| $55,340 | $104,803* | $165,593 | $15,500* | 0.15 | |
| $13,747 | $46,154* | $65,593 | $15,000* | 0.32 | |
| $7,913 | $45,490* | $38,755 | $18,196* | 0.40 | |
| $14,850 | $45,461* | $76,643 | $14,500* | 0.32 | |
| $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 University of La Verne, approximately 48% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 8 similar programs in CA. Actual outcomes may vary.