Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies at University of North Florida

University of North Florida's interdisciplinary studies program starts at a concerning $29,021 in first-year earnings—landing in just the 5th percentile nationally and well below Florida's median of $35,476. While the 54% earnings jump by year four brings graduates to $44,717, that initial year looks especially difficult given Jacksonville's cost of living. Among Florida's 19 programs, this ranks only in the 25th percentile, meaning three-quarters of comparable in-state options deliver stronger outcomes. The $22,500 debt load is manageable, but the first-year earnings barely cover basic expenses.

The earnings trajectory suggests graduates may be taking entry-level positions that don't immediately leverage their degree, then moving into better roles after proving themselves. By year four, outcomes look more respectable and surpass both national and state medians. However, that first year presents real financial stress—$29,021 works out to roughly $2,400 monthly before taxes, making loan payments and independent living challenging in Jacksonville's market.

If your child is considering this program, the year-four earnings show it's not a dead end, but they'll need a financial runway for those first couple years. Look closely at what specific career path they're targeting within interdisciplinary studies—that broad category matters enormously. Given that University of Central Florida delivers $37,282 in first-year earnings for the same degree, exploring in-state alternatives would be prudent.