Median Earnings (1yr)
$39,925
54th percentile (60th in NC)
Median Debt
$30,479
20% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.76
Manageable
Sample Size
41
Adequate data

Analysis

UNC-Pembroke's interdisciplinary studies graduates earn $7,300 more than the typical NC graduate in this field—a meaningful advantage when nearly half the student body receives Pell grants. At $39,925 first-year, earnings surpass both state and national benchmarks, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide. More importantly, graduates here carry debt loads well below the national norm (8th percentile), creating a more manageable financial start than most competitors.

The 0.76 debt-to-earnings ratio translates to roughly nine months of gross income to cover student loans—reasonable for a broad liberal arts degree. While earnings trail UNC-Greensboro by about $1,300 annually, Pembroke's accessibility (92% admission rate) serves a different student population, and the program still delivers competitive outcomes. The moderate sample size of graduates suggests stable data without the volatility of very small programs.

For families weighing an affordable path to a bachelor's degree in North Carolina, this program offers solid value. Graduates enter the workforce earning more than most NC peers in interdisciplinary studies while managing debt that's actually lower than average—a combination that gives graduates financial breathing room rather than an immediate burden.

Where University of North Carolina at Pembroke Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally

University of North Carolina at PembrokeOther multi/interdisciplinary studies programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How University of North Carolina at Pembroke graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of North Carolina at Pembroke graduates earn $40k, placing them in the 54th percentile of all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors programs nationally.

Compare to Similar Programs in North Carolina

Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in North Carolina (18 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of North Carolina at Pembroke$39,925—$30,4790.76
University of North Carolina at Greensboro$38,654—$28,5370.74
Brevard College$26,605—$27,0001.01
Chowan University$25,019—$38,5951.54
National Median$38,704—$25,4950.66

Other Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies Programs in North Carolina

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across North Carolina schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Greensboro
$7,593$38,654$28,537
Brevard College
Brevard
$31,250$26,605$27,000
Chowan University
Murfreesboro
$27,110$25,019$38,595

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 North Carolina at Pembroke, 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.

Sample Size: Based on 41 graduates with reported earnings and 56 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.