Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $101,028/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$67,028/yr |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $16,625 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences. | Certificate | $198,793 | |
| Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other. | Certificate | $188,472 | |
| Dentistry. | Doctoral | $129,184 | $312,308 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $109,763 | $97,246 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Master | $109,020 | $129,675 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Doctoral | $108,992 | $67,193 |
| Bioethics/Medical Ethics. | Master | $104,192 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Doctoral | $103,078 | |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Master | $97,452 | $51,343 |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Certificate | $86,867 |
Analysis
Oregon Health & Science University delivers strong financial returns for most students, with median 10-year earnings of $101,028 and remarkably low debt of $16,625 for a specialized health sciences institution.
Your program choice determines everything here. Advanced dentistry and oral sciences graduates earn nearly $200,000 annually, making OHSU one of the top dental programs financially. General dentistry still pays well at $129,184, though you'll carry substantial debt of $312,308 that requires careful planning. Nursing offers the best debt-to-income ratio with $109,763 earnings against $97,246 in loans, while allied health programs provide solid returns despite higher debt loads.
OHSU works best if you're committed to healthcare careers and can handle the academic intensity. The school's Portland location provides access to a strong regional healthcare job market, and employers recognize OHSU credentials. Only 28% of students receive aid, so expect to pay most costs upfront or through loans.
Skip OHSU if you're uncertain about healthcare or exploring liberal arts options. The specialized curriculum leaves little room for career pivots, and you'll pay premium prices for programs unavailable elsewhere. Students switching out of pre-med tracks face limited alternatives.
Your biggest financial risk is program failure. Healthcare programs maintain strict academic standards, and dropping out leaves you with debt but no credential. Research program-specific retention rates before committing, especially in competitive tracks like dentistry where admission doesn't guarantee completion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Oregon Health & Science University worth the cost?
OHSU offers strong ROI for health profession students, with median 10-year earnings of $101,028 and relatively low debt of $16,625. The school focuses exclusively on health sciences, making it worthwhile if you're committed to healthcare careers.
What are the highest paying programs at Oregon Health & Science University?
Advanced dentistry and oral sciences graduates earn nearly $199,000 annually, while general health professions graduates average $188,472. Nursing and allied health programs also pay well at around $109,000-$110,000 per year.
How much debt do Oregon Health & Science University graduates have?
OHSU graduates carry a median debt of $16,625, which is manageable given the school's focus on high-earning healthcare fields. This debt level is reasonable compared to earnings potential in most OHSU programs.
Should I attend Oregon Health & Science University if I'm unsure about healthcare?
No, OHSU only offers health science programs, so you need clear career direction in healthcare before enrolling. The school's value depends entirely on completing a health profession degree and working in that field.