Analysis
A bachelor's in Interior Architecture typically leads to first-year earnings around $45,000 nationally, and the University of Oregon's program appears to track close to this benchmark. With estimated debt of $22,834—just under the national median of $23,250—graduates would face manageable monthly payments of roughly $255, consuming about 7% of their gross monthly income. This falls comfortably within the standard affordability threshold and suggests a workable financial foundation for early-career professionals in this field.
The challenge with Interior Architecture is less about the debt load and more about the earning trajectory. Nationally, this field doesn't show dramatic salary growth in the early years, and first-year earnings in the mid-$40,000s require careful budgeting, especially in Oregon's urban centers where design work concentrates. The program being housed at a selective public university with strong regional connections could help with internship access and local firm relationships, but graduates should expect a slow build rather than immediate financial comfort.
For families comfortable with a five-year repayment horizon and students genuinely committed to interior design work, the estimated numbers here don't flash warning signs. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.51 is reasonable, and Oregon being the only state school offering this specific degree could mean less in-state competition. Just recognize you're looking at peer program data, not Oregon's actual graduate outcomes—the real picture could vary.
Where University of Oregon Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all interior architecture bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Interior Architecture bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of OregonEugene | $15,669 | $44,811* | — | $22,834* | — |
 University of North TexasDenton | $11,164 | $50,681* | $56,839 | $18,250* | 0.36 |
 California State University-SacramentoSacramento | $7,602 | $50,108* | $56,590 | $16,500* | 0.33 |
 University of Nebraska-LincolnLincoln | $10,108 | $46,293* | $55,806 | $26,876* | 0.58 |
 Chatham UniversityPittsburgh | $43,810 | $45,785* | — | —* | — |
 Colorado State University-Fort CollinsFort Collins | $12,896 | $45,774* | — | $22,417* | 0.49 |
| National Median | — | $44,811* | — | $23,250* | 0.52 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with interior architecture graduates
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Oregon, approximately 22% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 15 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.