Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Oregon State University-Cascades Campus

Oregon State University-Cascades delivers exactly what you'd expect from a liberal arts degree—modest starting pay with manageable debt and steady, if unspectacular, growth. At $38,083 in first-year earnings, graduates here match both the state median and slightly exceed the national benchmark. Four years out, earnings climb to $41,182, putting this program near the national 75th percentile mark and demonstrating that these graduates are finding their footing in the job market.

The financial picture is straightforward: $25,439 in median debt translates to a 0.67 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates owe about eight months of their first year's salary. That's reasonable for a liberal arts program, though not spectacular. Among Oregon's 16 schools offering this degree, OSU-Cascades sits right at the median for both earnings and debt—this is a safe middle-of-the-pack choice within the state.

For parents weighing this investment, the key question is whether your child has a clear plan for translating a general studies degree into career momentum. The 8% earnings growth over four years suggests graduates are building something, but the relatively modest starting salary means that first few years will require careful budgeting. If your child is drawn to Bend's lifestyle and OSU's broader institutional support, this program won't saddle them with crushing debt. Just ensure they're thinking strategically about internships and networking from day one.