Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology at Oregon Institute of Technology

Oregon Tech's psychology program shows a puzzling split: graduates earn substantially less than the national median ($26,591 versus $34,506), yet they're right at the median for Oregon programs. With only five schools offering this degree in the state, that 60th percentile ranking means little—the program essentially sits in the middle of a very small pack. More concerning is the debt load of $38,546, which exceeds both the national median ($27,000) and matches the highest in Oregon, creating an immediate financial squeeze with first-year earnings barely covering basic living expenses.

The dramatic 68% earnings jump to $44,697 by year four offers some relief, suggesting graduates find their footing after initial entry-level struggles. However, these numbers come from fewer than 30 graduates, making them unreliable as predictors. A single high or low earner can swing these figures significantly. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.45 means graduates start with debt equal to nearly 1.5 years of their initial salary—manageable only if that four-year earnings trajectory holds true for future cohorts.

For families considering this program, the combination of below-average starting salaries and above-average debt creates real risk, especially given the small sample uncertainty. Unless your child has specific ties to the Klamath Falls area or Oregon Tech's hands-on approach, larger psychology programs with more established track records would likely offer better financial outcomes with more predictable results.