EOU fuels Oregon’s workforce with degrees that deliver strong ROI

EOU fuels Oregon’s workforce with degrees that deliver strong ROI

LA GRANDE, Ore. New statewide wage data reinforces what Eastern Oregon University demonstrates every day: an EOU degree delivers measurable economic value for graduates and strengthens Oregon’s workforce. As the public university serving rural eastern Oregon, EOU aligns affordable, career-focused programs with regional and statewide labor needs to ensure students see tangible returns on their education.

Data compiled by the Higher Education Coordinating Commission and reported by The Oregonian shows that graduates of Oregon’s public universities earn a median income of about $57,000. Individuals who stop at a high school diploma earn roughly $40,000 in the same period. The gap reflects a clear and growing return on higher education.

Federal College Scorecard findings strengthen this picture. EOU has the lowest average annual cost of attendance among Oregon’s public universities, with an estimated cost of about $16,000. The Scorecard also reports median alumni earnings of $50,000. Together, these figures indicate that EOU students receive the best earnings-to-cost ratio compared to other Oregon Public Universities. EOU graduates also hold some of the lowest levels of student debt in Oregon, which contributes to long-term financial independence.

EOU’s mission directly supports the industries driving eastern Oregon’s economy. Employers in healthcare, education, forestry, technology, and business consistently seek graduates with the skills EOU develops through applied learning and employer partnerships. The university designs academic pathways that connect students to in-demand roles across the region.

Academic majors continue to influence early career earnings. The statewide analysis found that graduates in STEM and specialized health disciplines often surpass $100,000 annually within five years. Physical science graduates typically earn between $71,000 and $90,000. Many of these high-growth fields mirror EOU’s expanding program areas, including computer science, biology, chemistry, business, and health sciences majors.

“The data confirms what we prioritize at Eastern Oregon University,” said EOU President Dr. Kelly Ryan. “A college degree creates economic mobility. EOU provides affordable pathways and high-quality programs that prepare students for meaningful careers and long-term financial stability.”

EOU continues to invest in technology-rich learning environments, undergraduate research, and career-connected experiences that link academic training with real workforce demand. These investments reinforce the university’s commitment to producing graduates who contribute immediately to Oregon’s economic vitality.

“As Oregon’s economy evolves, EOU will grow degree pathways in fields such as cybersecurity, healthcare, and teacher education so more Oregonians can access the lifelong advantages of completing a college degree,” Ryan said.

Eastern Oregon University prepares graduates to meet workforce needs across the state through rigorous liberal arts and professional programs offered on campus, online, and at centers throughout Oregon. Visit eou.edu to learn more.