Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at Western Oregon University

Here's a counterintuitive finding: Western Oregon's interdisciplinary studies program starts well below the national average—graduates earn just $31,893 in year one versus $38,704 nationally—but shows impressive momentum. By year four, earnings jump to $40,397, a 27% increase that closes much of the initial gap. Among Oregon's eight programs, this ranks exactly at the state median for early earnings yet demonstrates stronger-than-average growth potential.

The $27,000 debt load sits slightly above Oregon's typical $24,000 for this degree, though the 0.85 debt-to-earnings ratio remains manageable. The real question is whether that slower start matters for your family. First-year earnings in the 19th percentile nationally means many graduates may need support or a second job initially. However, the trajectory suggests these graduates are finding their footing—that 27% earnings growth indicates they're developing marketable skills or pivoting into better roles.

This program serves primarily first-generation college students (40% receive Pell grants) at an open-access institution. If your child needs flexibility to explore career paths and can weather lower initial earnings, the growth pattern is encouraging. But if they need immediate financial independence post-graduation, programs like Southern Oregon's $41,454 starting salary offer more security from day one.