Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at Western Washington University

Western Washington University's interdisciplinary program places graduates $15,000 below the national median for similar degrees—yet it matches the typical Washington State outcome exactly. This reveals more about the challenging local market for generalist degrees than about the program itself. Among the 12 Washington schools offering this major, WWU sits right at the median, though Pacific Lutheran shows what's possible with 30% higher earnings.

The concerning part isn't the comparison to other states—it's the $23,213 starting salary itself. Even with modest $19,500 debt (actually below the national median), these graduates earn less in their first year than many associate degree holders. The 32% earnings growth to $30,634 by year four helps close the gap, but that's still materially below what interdisciplinary studies graduates earn nationally. Washington's high cost of living makes these numbers particularly challenging.

For families drawn to WWU's appealing Bellingham campus and strong overall reputation, this program requires a clear conversation about career planning. Interdisciplinary studies works best when students use it strategically—building toward a specific career goal rather than delaying specialization. The degree's flexibility is only valuable if your student has a concrete plan to leverage it, whether through targeted internships, double majors, or graduate school preparation that leads to higher-paying fields.