History at University of Oregon

University of Oregon's history program shows an unusual trajectory that requires careful consideration of timing and expectations. While first-year earnings of $25,571 trail the national median by nearly $6,000 and rank in just the 14th percentile nationally, graduates see remarkable income growth—jumping 62% to $41,472 by year four. This puts the program squarely in the middle of Oregon's history programs (40th percentile), though still behind Oregon State's graduates who start stronger out of the gate.

The $18,675 debt load is notably lower than both state and national medians, creating a manageable 0.73 debt-to-earnings ratio that improves dramatically as graduates gain experience. The key question is whether your student can weather that first year or two on limited income. The data suggests many UO history graduates eventually find their footing—perhaps in education, state government, or other sectors where humanities degrees gain value with experience—but the initial earnings gap is real and substantial.

If your child has financial cushion for the early career years or plans for graduate school (where these earnings matter less), this program offers solid long-term value at a reasonable debt cost. But if they need immediate post-graduation earnings to service loans or achieve financial independence, Oregon State's history program delivers $9,000 more right out of college.