Analysis
A $24,000 debt burden for first-year earnings near $38,000 positions this program right at Maryland's typical outcomes for interdisciplinary bachelor's degrees. Based on comparable programs at similar Maryland institutions, the 0.64 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests manageable repayment—roughly what you'd expect from this field statewide, though well below what top performers like Johns Hopkins achieve.
The challenge with interdisciplinary studies is its breadth. These programs often prepare graduates for varied career paths, which can mean strong outcomes for students who leverage them strategically and weaker returns for those without clear direction. The estimated earnings here mirror Maryland's state median almost exactly, suggesting neither an advantage nor disadvantage compared to peer programs. Meanwhile, the debt figure sits slightly above the state median of $21,250, though still within a reasonable range given the school serves a population where 46% receive Pell grants.
For families weighing this investment, the key question is whether your student has a specific career goal that this degree supports. Without actual outcome data for Washington Adventist's specific program, you're relying on faith that their experience will mirror the state average rather than fall below it. The 45% admission rate and 920 average SAT suggest an accessible institution, but ensure your student can articulate how this major connects to employable skills—otherwise, you're paying over $24,000 for credentials that may struggle to differentiate them in the job market.
Where Washington Adventist University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Maryland
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Maryland (21 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $25,200 | $37,937* | — | $24,125* | — | |
| $63,340 | $46,455* | — | $13,750* | 0.30 | |
| $55,480 | $40,150* | $67,029 | $27,000* | 0.67 | |
| $39,708 | $35,723* | $42,994 | $31,000* | 0.87 | |
| $10,638 | $30,895* | — | $17,500* | 0.57 | |
| 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 Washington Adventist University, approximately 46% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 4 similar programs in MD. Actual outcomes may vary.