Nuclear Engineering at Oregon State University-Cascades Campus

Oregon State's Cascades Campus offers one of only two nuclear engineering programs in the state, and while it sits at the state's median for earnings, the small graduate pool (under 30 students) means these numbers could swing significantly year to year. What's clear: graduates start at $69,657—roughly $4,000 below the national median for nuclear engineering—but carry just $27,000 in debt, keeping payments manageable at less than 40% of first-year income.

The 19% earnings bump to $82,731 by year four suggests graduates find their footing in the industry, though that starting salary still lags behind what nuclear engineers typically command elsewhere. Nuclear engineering is already a niche field with just 23 programs nationwide, and this campus serves as the main option for Central Oregon students who want to stay close to home. The program's 25th percentile national ranking reflects that regional focus—this isn't competing with major research universities, but rather providing an accessible path into a specialized field.

For families considering this program, the low debt makes it a safer bet than many engineering options, even with below-average starting pay. However, the small cohort size is genuinely important: one exceptional or struggling graduating class could dramatically shift these figures. If your student is set on nuclear engineering and values Oregon State's reputation without Portland prices, this works. Just recognize they may need to look beyond Bend for top-paying positions early in their career.