Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods at University of Portland

University of Portland's Management Sciences program shows an unusual split personality. While first-year earnings of $53,136 lag the national median by $9,000, graduates experience exceptional growth—reaching $77,607 by year four, a 46% jump that outpaces typical career trajectories for this field. This matters because it ranks in Oregon's 60th percentile despite the state having only three programs, suggesting reasonable in-state positioning even if the national comparison (29th percentile) looks weaker initially.

The debt load of $23,500 is essentially average for this field, translating to a manageable 0.44 ratio against first-year earnings. What makes this program interesting is the earnings acceleration: graduates who start modestly end up earning more than many peers at comparable national programs by year four. That said, with a 95% admission rate and moderate sample size, this program likely caters to students seeking private school experience without the typical private school premium—you're paying for campus environment and network, not guaranteed high starting salaries.

For Oregon families, this program delivers acceptable value if your student can handle the initial earnings ramp-up period. The trajectory suggests employers increasingly value these graduates with experience, but families should ensure their financial runway can support those first couple of years while earnings catch up to debt obligations.