Oregon State University-Cascades Campus logo

Oregon State University-Cascades Campus

Bend, OR Public ยท Urban osucascades.edu
Accept Rate
68.44%
Grad Rate
53.7%
Enrollment
1,054
Avg SAT
1223
Tuition
$12,594
Median Salary
$64,010
Overall Grade
C
C
Academics
A-
Value
C
Admissions
C
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Oregon State University-Cascades offers a small, close-knit community with only 1,054 students. The campus is nestled in the high desert of Bend, OR, providing immediate access to outdoor recreation. It feels like a supportive, intimate learning environment distinct from a large university.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

68.44%
Moderately Selective

SAT Score Range

SAT data not available

Average: 1223

ACT Score Range

ACT data not available

Average: 25

Admissions Tips

Highlight your interest in outdoor activities and sustainability in your personal statement. With a 68.44% acceptance rate, aim for a GPA above 3.5 to be competitive. Apply early to secure housing in a tight market.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1223
40080012001600

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

The campus specializes in unique high desert and mountain research programs. It offers small class sizes and direct access to faculty for hands-on learning. Sustainability and outdoor industries are key academic focuses.

Popular Majors

Computer Science
15.6%
Engineering
15.4%
Business & Marketing
13.4%
Biology & Biomedical
7.5%
Natural Resources
6.7%
Psychology
5.8%
Social Sciences
5.5%
Agriculture
4.7%
Health Professions
4.5%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
4.3%
Family & Consumer Science
3.5%
Visual & Performing Arts
2.2%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

53.7%
Graduation Rate
78.2%
Retention Rate
1,054
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$12,594
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$17,722
After financial aid
Total Cost
$27,461
Cost of attendance/year
28%
Receive Pell Grants
33%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Bend

Bend offers a vibrant outdoor lifestyle with hiking, skiing, and river activities right outside campus. The city has a lively downtown with breweries, restaurants, and music. Student life is centered around nature and community events.

Local Rent Check

$1,283 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Bend
Explore Bend

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$50,376
$0Est. 4 Years: $50,376

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($64,010):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

Bend is frequently rated as one of Oregon's safest cities. The campus itself has a low-crime, community-oriented atmosphere.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Unbeatable access to outdoor recreation in Bend.
  • โœ“ Very small class sizes and personalized attention.
  • โœ“ Modern campus facilities in a growing location.
  • โœ“ Strong focus on sustainability and environmental research.

Cons

  • โœ— Lower graduation rate (53.7%).
  • โœ— Housing in Bend is expensive and limited.
  • โœ— Smaller social scene compared to larger universities.

Notable Alumni

Andrew Forgrave
Manager of the OSU-Cascades campus and key figure in its development and expansion.
Shannon S.
Notable graduate in the low-residency MFA program (Creative Writing).
Bend Community Leaders
Various local business owners and city planners who graduated from the campus's sustainability and business programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Housing is not guaranteed, and Bend's rental market is tight. Students are encouraged to apply for on-campus housing as early as possible.

Classes are small, typically ranging from 15 to 30 students, allowing for close interaction with professors.

OSU-Cascades does not have NCAA athletic teams, but there are many intramural and club sports focused on outdoor activities.

Students can access resources from the main campus, but Cascades offers a distinct identity with its own specialized programs.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

St. Charles Health System Bend-La Pine Schools Deschutes Brewery OSU-Cascades The Mountaineers
Smart Start Score
64

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Public
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 1,230
  • In-State Tuition $12,594
  • Out-of-State $34,944
  • Zip Code 97702

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 52.6% โ™€ 47.4%

The Money Talk

With an average earning of $64,010 post-graduation, the ROI is solid. Tuition at $12,594 is competitive for a public university. The 53.7% graduation rate suggests students should plan for a 4-6 year timeline to maximize value.

*Based on Dept of Education data

โš–๏ธ Compare Schools

See how this school stacks up

Compare with Dickinson State University

๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $12,594
Housing (12 mo) $15,396
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $35,190
With avg financial aid:
$17,722/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.