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Best Value Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies Colleges in Virginia

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

University of Virginia students studying Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies earn $53,984 annually, nearly double the $25,580 earned by graduates from William & Mary in the same field. This dramatic earnings gap of $28,404 reflects how program focus and career pathways vary significantly across Virginia's 15 institutions offering these flexible degree options. The state's proximity to federal agencies and defense contractors creates strong demand for graduates who can navigate complex, cross-sector challenges. Norfolk State University delivers the most affordable pathway at just $12,973 net cost, while the University of Richmond charges $33,417 for similar programs. Virginia's Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies graduates often leverage their broad skill sets in government consulting, healthcare administration, and defense contracting roles with employers like Booz Allen Hamilton and Northrop Grumman. The field attracts students seeking flexibility to combine interests across multiple disciplines, from environmental policy to data analytics.
21
Programs
$11,180 – $33,417
Net Price Range
$36,745
Avg. Program Earnings
59.8%
Avg. Graduation Rate

21 Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $14,170 $37,136 $12,262 44.4% 95.1%
2 $22,881 $53,984 $20,986 95.3% 18.7%
3 $16,640 $37,118 $12,286 49.6% 93.3%
4 $20,583 $35,330 $36,960 49.1% 81.4%
5 $19,452 $32,747 $16,458 65.4% 91.0%
6 $22,198 $35,060 $29,696 27.1% 63.0%
7 $33,417 $44,542 $62,600 87.8% 24.4%
8 $29,552 $39,209 $21,222 63.5% 99.3%
9 $22,197 $26,739 $16,351 75.1% 85.4%
10 $22,529 $25,580 $25,040 91.0% 33.5%
11 $12,973 $9,910 32.7% 89.5%
12 $21,108 $14,559 67.4% 85.8%
13 $17,833 $33,157 55.7%
14 $23,383 $25,110 48.1% 75.8%
15 $11,180 $11,656 49.8% 75.6%
16 $22,263 $42,260 69.7% 72.4%
17 $20,591 $35,280 53.8% 96.9%
18 $14,553 $9,755 40.7% 89.7%
19 $19,580 $14,880 41.3% 80.6%
20 $18,749 $20,686 54.1% 32.3%
21 $23,911 $64,525 94.9% 17.0%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $28,404 earnings gap between Virginia's highest and lowest-paying Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies programs?

University of Virginia graduates earn $53,984 compared to $25,580 at William & Mary, largely due to different program emphases and career placement networks. UVA's interdisciplinary programs often funnel graduates toward higher-paying government consulting and policy roles in the DC metro area. William & Mary's focus tends toward education and nonprofit sectors, which typically offer lower starting salaries. The 95.3% graduation rate at UVA versus 91% at William & Mary also suggests stronger student support and career services.

How do public versus private college costs compare for interdisciplinary studies in Virginia?

Public universities average $16,892 in net costs compared to $23,491 at private institutions, a difference of $6,599 annually. However, University of Richmond charges $33,417 while delivering graduates earning $44,542, creating a reasonable return on investment. Virginia Wesleyan University costs $20,583 but graduates earn only $35,330, making it less competitive financially. The VTAG grant helps offset private college costs for qualifying Virginia residents.

Is Old Dominion University a good value choice for interdisciplinary studies?

ODU offers solid value at $14,170 net cost with graduates earning $37,136, providing one of the better earnings-to-cost ratios in the state. The 95.14% acceptance rate makes admission accessible, though the 44.4% graduation rate raises concerns about student success. Located in Norfolk near major defense contractors and the world's largest naval base, ODU students benefit from internship and job opportunities in maritime industries. The relatively low $25,000 average debt burden helps graduates enter the workforce without overwhelming financial pressure.

Does Virginia Commonwealth University provide strong career preparation for interdisciplinary studies majors?

VCU graduates earn $32,747 with a 65.4% graduation rate, placing it in the middle tier for Virginia interdisciplinary programs. The $19,452 net cost represents fair value, particularly given Richmond's growing healthcare and biotech sectors where interdisciplinary skills are valuable. VCU's urban location provides access to state government internships and healthcare administration roles with employers like Inova Health. The 91% acceptance rate makes it accessible to most applicants seeking interdisciplinary education.

Where can students find the most affordable interdisciplinary studies programs in Virginia?

University of Virginia's College at Wise offers the lowest net cost at $11,180, followed closely by Norfolk State at $12,973. Both institutions maintain 49.8% and 32.7% graduation rates respectively, suggesting students should carefully consider support services. Radford University provides a middle-ground option at $16,640 with a stronger 49.6% graduation rate. These public options contrast sharply with private colleges averaging over $20,000 in net costs.

More Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other Rankings

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.