Cost and Scholarships
Yes. The cost of college is worth it.
Higher education requires an investment on every level. It’s an investment that pays off many times over. And it’s not just about earning more money. A college degree opens doors to more rewarding careers and greater job security.
An OSU-Cascades degree is within reach.
As Oregon’s land grant university, we aim make a college degree attainable for all. That includes you. You may qualify for scholarships of $2,000, $3,000, $4,500 or $10,000 per year. In fact, more than 75% of OSU-Cascades students receive financial aid. Learn more about:
A college degree pays off. Year after year.
Earning your degree will earn you a higher annual salary throughout your career compared to a high school diploma.
Median salary, full-time, age 25+
Source: 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics
PLUS: College grads account for more than 70% of those with mid-career salaries of $100,000 or more. High school grads? Only 5%.
Source: The College Board
You can expect greater job security.
Unemployment rate during the 2020 recession
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
A college loan is manageable.
Even if you have to take out student loans, interest rates on student loans are typically low, and payment plans are manageable. Median total student debt at OSU-Cascades is $21,221, which is lower than the national average.
* $33,000, 5 years, 6.0% interest | ** $21,221, 10 years, 5.63% interest
"It was one of the best decisions of my life. OSU-Cascades was instrumental in getting me where I am today — working as the chief of staff for an Oregon state senator! I can’t wait to see where my career will take me." Image
— Myra Flores, ‘23
An even better investment?
OSU-Cascades. It’s not just about numbers — although we’re certainly proud of them. There are even more advantages you’ll find at OSU-Cascades. And you’ll graduate with an Oregon State University degree, a degree employers value.
Top 10%
40-Year Return on Investment
Source: Georgetown University Center for Education and Workforce
Top 9%
in alumni earnings
Source: Payscale, OSU ranking out of 2,400 schools studied
91%
of OSU-Cascades alumni are employed or in graduate school within six months
Based on respondents to graduate surveys 2022-2024
Career readiness: a key part of your OSU-Cascades edge.
Whether your goal is forging a new path or growing your family business, career design and readiness are built into your degree.
At OSU-Cascades, career readiness is embedded throughout the core of your learning experience with courses that teach complex problems solving, technical skills and strategic thinking. We support you in developing career-based experiences that expand your education and post-college opportunities, with added access to additional educational opportunities like personal financial literacy and internship experiences.
In a changing financial and employment landscape, it’s not just about getting a job; it’s about creating a future you can control, here in Central Oregon, and beyond.
Small classes, real mentors.
With small classes averaging 20 students, your professors will get to know you and help you achieve your goals. Students tell us — it’s faculty who make the biggest difference in their success.
It all adds up.
- Higher likely salaries.
- Greater lifetime earnings.
- Better odds for success.
- More well-paying career options.
- Impressive ROI.
- Cascades Edge
OSU-Cascades: A very smart investment.
Visit OSU-Cascades in Bend
There are many ways to check out campus. Sign up for a campus tour, attend a Preview Day or take a virtual tour.