Analysis
Virginia Wesleyan's interdisciplinary studies program shows promising first-year earnings of $48,841—well above both the national median ($38,704) and competitive with Virginia's median ($46,359). The program ranks in the 84th percentile nationally and carries a reasonable $31,000 in median debt. That's particularly notable given how rare it is to find programs where debt stays below 0.7 times first-year earnings while delivering above-average outcomes.
However, the small sample size here (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could shift significantly year to year. The apparent earnings decline to $45,069 by year four may reflect individual career paths rather than a broader pattern, given how few data points we're working with. Among Virginia's 21 programs in this field, this ranks solidly middle-of-the-pack—not touching UVA or Richmond's outcomes, but competitive with larger state schools.
For parents, the real question is what "interdisciplinary studies" means for your student's career direction. These programs can be excellent for motivated students who know how to articulate their unique skill combination to employers, but they require more intentionality than traditional majors. If your child is using this degree strategically—perhaps combining business and communication skills, or science and policy—the economics here look reasonable. The debt load won't be crushing, and early earnings suggest graduates are finding their footing. Just recognize that with this small sample, you're making decisions with limited visibility.
Where Virginia Wesleyan University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Virginia Wesleyan University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia Wesleyan University | $48,841 | $45,069 | -8% |
| University of Virginia-Main Campus | $52,463 | $61,339 | +17% |
| University of Richmond | $49,421 | $59,003 | +19% |
| William & Mary | $38,590 | $49,592 | +29% |
| Virginia Commonwealth University | $49,111 | $46,725 | -5% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Virginia
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Virginia (21 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $36,960 | $48,841 | $45,069 | $31,000 | 0.63 | |
| $20,986 | $52,463 | $61,339 | $26,700 | 0.51 | |
| $62,600 | $49,421 | $59,003 | $24,750 | 0.50 | |
| $16,458 | $49,111 | $46,725 | $25,125 | 0.51 | |
| $12,262 | $46,359 | $46,300 | $27,000 | 0.58 | |
| $21,222 | $42,284 | $46,175 | $28,375 | 0.67 | |
| 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 Virginia Wesleyan University, approximately 26% 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.