Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies at Western Washington University

Western Washington's interdisciplinary program starts below both state and national averages but shows impressive trajectory: graduates earning $34,119 initially see their income jump 26% to $43,086 within four years. That's a significant acceleration that outpaces typical wage growth in early-career years. However, there's a catch—among Washington's six programs in this field, Western ranks 40th percentile, meaning graduates at UW-Seattle or Eastern Washington start $5,000-6,000 ahead and likely maintain that advantage.

The debt picture offers some relief. At $24,055, borrowing sits just below the state median and well below national averages for this degree. That manageable debt load—less than one year's first-year salary—means graduates aren't financially constrained while their earnings climb. With Western's 91% admission rate, this program provides accessible entry to a bachelor's degree without crushing debt.

The tradeoff is clear: you're accepting below-average starting pay in exchange for manageable debt and solid growth potential. For students who need to stay in Washington, want an interdisciplinary education, and can weather a slower initial earning period, this works. But families prioritizing immediate earnings should note that other state options start graduates $5,000+ higher—a gap that the strong year-1-to-4 growth only partially closes.