Public Health at Western Oregon University

Western Oregon's public health program sits below the middle of the pack both nationally and within Oregon, with first-year earnings of $35,701 trailing the state median by about $1,000. Among Oregon's eight public health programs, this ranks in the 40th percentile—graduates from Oregon State earn nearly $5,000 more in their first year. However, the program's debt load of $21,691 is notably lighter than both state and national medians, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.61 that's manageable for most graduates.

The positive story here is earnings growth: graduates see their income jump 23% by year four, reaching $43,870. That puts them solidly in the middle class and suggests the degree opens doors over time. Combined with the below-median debt, this program won't saddle students with crushing payments even if their starting salary feels modest. The university's 99% admission rate and high Pell grant percentage (40%) indicate it serves a broad population, many of whom may be balancing work and school.

For families weighing cost and outcomes, this represents a reasonable path into public health, particularly for students who need an accessible entry point to higher education. Just understand your child will likely start on the lower end of the salary spectrum compared to peers at Oregon State or Portland State, even if the gap narrows over time.