Analysis
University of Redlands graduates with this interdisciplinary degree earn $28,128 their first year—barely above minimum wage in California and roughly $12,000 less than the state median for this program. This ranks in just the 10th percentile among California schools offering this degree, meaning 90% of comparable programs in the state deliver better outcomes. The debt load of $27,000 might seem manageable in isolation, but it nearly equals an entire year's earnings, creating a payment burden that will stretch tight on an already modest salary.
The bigger concern is the lost opportunity cost. California offers 50 interdisciplinary programs, and many deliver substantially better returns. Even Cal State Humboldt graduates earn $45,000—more than 60% higher. When you're paying private school tuition (Redlands' admission rate of 81% suggests it's not highly selective), you expect stronger career outcomes than what a typical state school graduate achieves working retail.
For $27,000 in debt, your child deserves a degree that opens doors, not one that leaves them earning less than most college graduates in the state. Unless there's a compelling non-financial reason to choose Redlands—perhaps a unique program combination unavailable elsewhere—this particular degree represents poor value. Look at what other California schools deliver with similar or less debt before committing.
Where University of Redlands Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Redlands graduates compare to all programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (50 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $57,614 | $28,128 | — | $26,967 | 0.96 | |
| $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 Redlands, approximately 35% 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 31 graduates with reported earnings and 32 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.