Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies at Virginia Commonwealth University

VCU's interdisciplinary certificate launches graduates into unusually strong earnings territory—$48,446 in the first year puts this program at the 95th percentile nationally, well above the typical $45,820 for similar credentials. The 34% earnings jump to nearly $65,000 by year four suggests these graduates develop versatile skills that employers increasingly value. With debt under $23,000 and a manageable 0.46 debt-to-earnings ratio, students leave in solid financial shape compared to most certificate programs.

The state comparison here is tricky: VCU appears to be the only institution in Virginia offering this specific interdisciplinary certificate, making it both the median and the benchmark. What matters more is that this accessible program—at a university with a 93% admission rate—consistently outperforms three-quarters of similar programs nationwide. The moderate sample size means these results reflect real graduates, though outcomes for any individual will vary based on which disciplines they combine and how they market that combination.

For families drawn to VCU's urban Richmond setting and open admissions, this certificate offers a practical path to middle-class earnings without crushing debt. It's particularly worth considering for students who want flexibility in their studies while still reaching solid financial outcomes, though the interdisciplinary nature requires students to articulate their skill mix clearly to employers.