History at Oregon State University-Cascades Campus

Oregon State's Cascades Campus history program stands out in Oregon, ranking in the 80th percentile statewide with first-year earnings of $34,589—significantly above the state median of $26,819. More impressive is what happens over time: earnings jump 45% to reach $50,046 by year four, suggesting graduates move beyond entry-level positions relatively quickly. The debt load of $24,332 sits right at the national median, creating a manageable 0.70 debt-to-earnings ratio that most liberal arts programs would envy.

The comparison to other Oregon schools tells the story clearly. This program matches the flagship Oregon State campus in first-year outcomes while substantially outperforming larger programs at University of Oregon and Portland State. That's particularly noteworthy given the Cascades campus draws a fairly traditional student body (only 28% receive Pell grants) in Bend's growing economy. The moderate sample size means some year-to-year variation is possible, but the pattern of strong initial placement followed by solid earnings growth suggests graduates are finding meaningful career trajectories.

For families weighing a history degree—often dismissed as impractical—this program demonstrates how location and institutional connections matter. The debt is reasonable, the earnings trajectory is upward, and graduates are clearly competitive in Oregon's job market from day one.