American Sign Language at Western Oregon University

Western Oregon's ASL program sits right at Oregon's median for earnings—which makes sense, since it's the only program in the state. The first-year salary of $31,576 is below the national median for ASL degrees, placing this in the 39th percentile nationally. The relatively modest debt load of $22,950 keeps the debt-to-earnings ratio reasonable at 0.73, though this debt level is higher than 75% of ASL programs nationwide. With a 99% admission rate and serving a substantial population of Pell grant recipients, Western Oregon provides accessible education, but families should understand they're paying slightly more in debt for below-average starting outcomes.

The 16% earnings growth to $36,768 by year four is encouraging and suggests graduates find their footing in the field over time. However, even at that level, earnings remain modest compared to many bachelor's degree holders. For Oregon families, this is your only in-state option for an ASL bachelor's degree, which eliminates comparison shopping on cost and outcomes within the state.

If your child is passionate about ASL and deaf education or interpretation, this program offers a clear path at a reasonable debt level. Just understand that the financial returns will be gradual, and early-career earnings will require careful budgeting. The post-graduation job market appears to reward persistence more than it offers immediate financial payoff.