Eastern Oregon University
Acceptance rate
98.3%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$24,729
In-state $11,184
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
2,502
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
28.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 38.2%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Eastern Oregon University (EOU) is a public university located in La Grande, Oregon, known for its strong emphasis on personalized education and community engagement. Founded in 1929, EOU has cultivated a supportive and inclusive environment, attracting a diverse student body from various backgrounds. The university's mission is to empower students through a comprehensive liberal arts education, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and civic responsibility. EOU's campus culture is vibrant, characterized by active student organizations, cultural events, and a close-knit community that encourages collaboration and leadership among students.
One of the standout features of EOU is its commitment to offering a wide range of academic programs, including liberal arts, business, and health sciences. The university is particularly known for its online degree programs, which provide flexible learning opportunities for non-traditional students and working professionals. EOU boasts a dedicated faculty who prioritize student success and mentorship, ensuring that each student receives personalized attention. Additionally, the university's location in the scenic Grande Ronde Valley offers students access to breathtaking natural landscapes, promoting outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and biking. With a focus on student well-being, EOU provides various support services, including academic advising, counseling, and career services, which contribute to high graduate employment rates. Overall, Eastern Oregon University stands out as a nurturing institution that prepares students for successful careers while fostering a strong sense of community and belonging.
Trends in Tuition, Student Enrollment, and Graduation Rates at Eastern Oregon University
The data from Eastern Oregon University reveals significant trends in tuition costs, student enrollment, and graduation rates over recent years. Tuition for in-state undergraduate students has steadily increased from $7,530 in 2014 to $10,709 in 2024, representing a rise of approximately 42.4%. Similarly, out-of-state tuition has surged from $16,744 to $24,380, which is an increase of around 45.5%. This sharp escalation in tuition costs may deter potential students, particularly those from out of state, as higher education becomes increasingly expensive.
Concurrently, student enrollment figures indicate a concerning decline. The number of undergraduate students decreased from 3,845 in 2013 to 2,415 in 2023, marking a decrease of about 37.1%. This decline in enrollment could be attributed to the rising tuition and possibly the perceived value of the educational offerings. Graduate enrollment has also seen fluctuations, although the numbers are less pronounced, suggesting that the university may need to address the factors contributing to this decline in undergraduate interest.
Furthermore, graduation rates show a troubling trend. The timely graduation rate for undergraduates fell dramatically from 20.8% in 2013 to just 8.6% in 2023, with the 150% graduation rate also reflecting a decrease in recent years. This suggests that not only are fewer students enrolling, but those who do may be struggling to complete their degrees in a timely manner, which could further impact the university's reputation and attractiveness to prospective students.
Overall, Eastern Oregon University faces challenges that involve rising tuition, declining enrollment, and problematic graduation rates. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the university to ensure its sustainability and to maintain its educational mission in the coming years.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Remote town
- Nearest major city
- Boise, about 150 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Spokane International Airport (GEG), about 160 mi
- Also known as
- EOU
- Academic calendar
- Quarter
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Kelly A. Ryan (President)
- Phone
- 5419623672
- Address
- One University Blvd, La Grande, OR 97850
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 97.0%, women 98.6%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions and Enrollment at Eastern Oregon University
The admission statistics for Eastern Oregon University over the years showcase significant fluctuations in both male and female acceptance rates, as well as overall enrollment numbers. From 2009 to 2023, there is a noticeable trend of increasing acceptance rates, particularly for male applicants, who saw their acceptance rate rise from approximately 44.8% to nearly 98.7%. This dramatic shift suggests a strategic pivot by the university towards more inclusive admission practices, potentially aimed at boosting enrollment figures and diversifying the student body.
Conversely, female applicants initially experienced a higher acceptance rate compared to their male counterparts, but by 2023, the gap has narrowed considerably. While this could reflect broader societal trends of increasing female enrollment in higher education, it also indicates that Eastern Oregon University is making efforts to maintain a balanced admission approach across genders.
The number of students enrolled and denied admission also underwent significant changes. For instance, in 2016 the university recorded a notably high acceptance rate alongside relatively low denial numbers, which may suggest an effort to attract more students during that period. Interestingly, the deferment rates appear to fluctuate, indicating a willingness among applicants to consider postponing their enrollment.
Overall, Eastern Oregon University's data reflects broader trends in higher education, such as increasing accessibility, changing demographics of applicants, and varying institutional priorities. As the educational landscape evolves, it will be essential for universities to continue adapting their admission strategies to meet the needs of a diverse student population.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at Eastern Oregon University
The admissions data for Eastern Oregon University over the years reveals several significant trends regarding standardized test scores and the number of applicants submitting these scores. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has varied, peaking at 77% in 2008 and dropping to 61% in both 2009 and 2019. This fluctuation may reflect broader trends in higher education, where some students opt not to submit test scores due to the increasing number of institutions moving toward test-optional admissions policies.
In terms of SAT reading and math scores, the data shows a general decline in the lower quartile scores from 2007 to 2010, with a low point of 410 in 2010 for both sections. However, there is a noticeable recovery by 2017, where the lower quartile scores return to 410 for reading and 520 for math, indicating a potential improvement in the preparedness of incoming students. The upper quartile scores have remained relatively stable, indicating that while fewer students may be submitting scores, those who do tend to perform consistently.
Moreover, the steady score ranges from 470 to 585 for the last several years suggest that the academic caliber of applicants may be stabilizing, even as the total number of applicants fluctuates. This consistency, particularly in the 75th percentile, could be a positive sign for the university as it seeks to maintain or improve its educational standards in a competitive landscape.
Overall, while the data reflects some challenges, such as declining submission rates and fluctuating lower quartile scores, there is also evidence of resilience and improvement in certain areas, which bodes well for the future of Eastern Oregon University.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 10 in 10
1,599 applicants in 2025, 98.3% admitted
1,572 admitted 27 not admitted Yield 20.1%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Secondary Education and Teaching · Master's38 (0% international)
- Business/Commerce, General · Master's21 (0% international)
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's19 (0% international)
- Teacher Education, Multiple Levels · Master's17 (0% international)
- Creative Writing · Master's5 (0% international)
- Public Administration · Master's2 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Eastern Oregon University
The graduation data from Eastern Oregon University in 2023 reveals interesting trends across various fields of study. Notably, the program in Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education had the highest number of bachelor's degree graduates, totaling 73. This underscores the growing interest in health and physical education, likely influenced by an increased awareness of wellness and fitness in contemporary society.
Psychology also showed a significant presence with 49 graduates, including one international student, highlighting its appeal in the current mental health climate. The rising focus on mental well-being may be driving students toward this discipline, as society becomes more mindful of psychological issues.
Interestingly, education programs continue to be a foundational pillar, with several specializations yielding graduates at the master's level, such as Secondary Education with 48 graduates and Early Childhood Education with 26. The emphasis on training qualified educators reflects a sustained commitment to improving educational standards.
On the technical side, Computer and Information Sciences had 21 bachelor's degree graduates. This indicates a steady interest in technology-related fields, aligning with national trends towards digital literacy and information security.
Overall, the data suggests a balanced interest in both traditional educational disciplines and emerging fields that cater to current societal needs. The absence of graduates in some areas like health-related degrees and public administration might indicate a shift in focus, possibly influenced by job market trends and economic conditions. As the job market continues to evolve, it will be crucial for educational institutions to adapt their programs to meet the demands of future employment landscapes.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $45,430-$55,202 | |||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $45,430-$55,202 | |||
| Teacher Education, Multiple Levels. | $45,430-$55,202 | |||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $45,430-$55,202 | |||
| Education, Other. | $43,268 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $69,686 | |||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $50,553 | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | $38,724 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | $47,795 | |||
| Sustainability Studies. | - | |||
| Data Analytics, General. | - | |||
| Business Analytics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - | |||
| Information Technology Project Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $45,761 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, Other. | - | |||
| Social Sciences, Other. | $45,275 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fire Services Administration. | $115,217 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | |||
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $40,121 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | |||
| Health and Medical Administrative Services, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $37,926 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | |||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
Students
2,894 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 41:59 · Freshman retention 71.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,501
- First-year undergraduates 300
- Graduate students 392
- Transfers and others 701
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,502)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Eastern Oregon University in 2023
The student demographic data from Eastern Oregon University for the year 2023 reveals interesting insights into the composition of its student body. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 252, with a notable higher representation of females at 56.3%, compared to 43.7% males. This trend of a greater female population continues among the upperclassmen, where females make up 58.9% of the 1,634 total students.
In terms of transfer students, the gender ratio is similar, with females representing 60.4% of the 376 students, highlighting a consistent pattern across different student classifications. Graduate students also exhibit a significant female majority, with 66.8% being women among the 259 students. This consistent pattern across all classifications could suggest that Eastern Oregon University is appealing strongly to female students or that there are broader trends in higher education favoring female enrollment.
Moreover, the data indicates that White students make up a substantial portion of each demographic group, with specific figures available for freshmen and transfer students. However, the absence of detailed data for upperclassmen and graduate students limits our understanding of the racial and ethnic diversity in these groups.
Overall, this demographic analysis points to a university environment that is increasingly welcoming to female students while also maintaining a predominantly White student population. As universities strive for diversity and inclusion, it will be crucial for Eastern Oregon University to continue expanding its outreach to underrepresented groups, ensuring that its demographic composition reflects a broader spectrum of society.
Age Demographics at Eastern Oregon University: A Closer Look
The age distribution of students at Eastern Oregon University reveals a diverse range of ages, reflecting broader trends in higher education today. The majority of students fall within the traditional college age group of 18 to 24 years, with the highest numbers observed in the 18-19 and 20-21 categories. This aligns with national statistics showing that many students enter college directly after high school.
Interestingly, there is a notable gender disparity, particularly among undergraduate students. In the 18-19 age group, there are 170 male students compared to 234 female students, indicating a higher female enrollment in this age bracket. This trend continues in the 20-21 category, where females outnumber males significantly, which is a reflection of the increasing number of women pursuing higher education.
As age increases, the number of students decreases, particularly in the 25-29 and 30-34 age groups. This may suggest that individuals in these cohorts are balancing work and family commitments, which can affect their ability to pursue full-time education. The presence of graduate students in their late twenties and thirties is also evident, showing that education is a lifelong pursuit and that many individuals return to school to advance their careers or change paths.
Overall, the age composition at Eastern Oregon University highlights the institution's appeal to both traditional and non-traditional students, showcasing a commitment to inclusivity and diversity in education. This demographic trend is significant, as it reflects the changing landscape of higher education, where students of all ages seek knowledge and skills to thrive in a competitive workforce.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
21 in 2025 · 1.4% in 2016
2 in 2025 · 1.4% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Enrollment at Eastern Oregon University
The data on international student enrollment at Eastern Oregon University over the years reveals some interesting trends. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students fluctuated significantly, with a peak of 78 students in 2006, which represented 2.44% of the total undergraduate population. However, this percentage has generally seen a decline, with only 1.28% of undergraduates being international students in 2023.
The graduate enrollment figures present a more complex picture. Although the number of graduate students remains relatively stable, the percentage of international students has varied widely, peaking at 4.00% in 2020. This spike could be attributed to a variety of factors, including global trends in higher education, institutional efforts to attract international talent, and perhaps an increase in online learning opportunities that expanded access during the pandemic.
Despite these fluctuations, the overall trend for international students at Eastern Oregon University indicates a decreasing presence in recent years, especially among undergraduates. This decline coincides with broader national trends, where many U.S. universities have reported challenges in attracting international students due to factors such as visa policies, geopolitical tensions, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In conclusion, while Eastern Oregon University has experienced a dynamic international student landscape, the recent years show a concerning trend that may require strategic efforts to revitalize its appeal to international scholars.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$36,516
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $24,729
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $11,184
- Room and board
- $11,787
- Graduate tuition
- $19,332
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 38% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 22%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$89.6M
Expenses$78.4M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Frontier Conference · Cascade Collegiate Conference
Frontier Conference: football
Cascade Collegiate Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 143 | 136 |
| Football | 126 | - |
| Soccer | 35 | 37 |
| Wrestling | 38 | 26 |
| Baseball | 47 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 28 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Lacrosse | - | 15 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 111 | 78 |
| Football | 112 | - |
| Soccer | 34 | 32 |
| Wrestling | 38 | 23 |
| Baseball | 43 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 27 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Lacrosse | - | 16 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 97 | 75 |
| Football | 111 | - |
| Soccer | 36 | 33 |
| Wrestling | 30 | 22 |
| Baseball | 37 | - |
| Basketball | 17 | 17 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Lacrosse | - | 12 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Whitman CollegeWalla Walla · 53.1 mi
Liberal Arts #78
-
Washington State UniversityPullman · 107.3 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of IdahoMoscow · 110.2 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Boise State UniversityBoise · 150.8 mi
U.S. News #299
-
Gonzaga UniversitySpokane · 165.4 mi
U.S. News #90
-
Reed CollegePortland · 220.4 mi
Liberal Arts #60
-
Lewis & Clark CollegePortland · 222.2 mi
Liberal Arts #97
-
Portland State UniversityPortland · 223.2 mi
U.S. News #236
-
George Fox UniversityNewberg · 236.8 mi
U.S. News #262
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Eastern Oregon University:
-
Whitman College - Ranked 46th in the 2024 US News rankings, Whitman College is a private liberal arts college located in Walla Walla, Washington. It is known for its rigorous academics and commitment to providing a personalized educational experience.
-
Washington State University - With a rank of 178, Washington State University is a public research university located in Pullman, Washington. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is recognized for its research initiatives.
-
University of Idaho - Ranked 185th, the University of Idaho is a public research university situated in Moscow, Idaho. It is the state's oldest university and is known for its strong programs in agriculture, engineering, and law.
-
Gonzaga University - This private university is ranked 93rd and is located in Spokane, Washington. Gonzaga is renowned for its vibrant campus life and strong emphasis on liberal arts education.
-
Reed College - With a rank of 67, Reed College is a private liberal arts college in Portland, Oregon. It is well-regarded for its academic rigor and emphasis on independent scholarship.
-
Lewis & Clark College - Ranked 93rd, Lewis & Clark College is a private liberal arts college in Portland, Oregon, known for its beautiful campus and strong emphasis on environmental studies and international relations.
-
University of Oregon - This public research university is ranked 98th and is located in Eugene, Oregon. It is known for its programs in business, journalism, and environmental science.
These institutions provide a diverse range of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Crime Trends at Eastern Oregon University
The crime data at Eastern Oregon University over the last decade reveals a significant decline in the rate of recorded offenses per 1,000 students. Starting with a high of 57.22 in 2013, the average crime rate has steadily decreased to just 3.96 in 2023. This sharp reduction could be attributed to various factors, including enhanced campus security measures, increased awareness programs, and a greater emphasis on community building among students.
Specifically, incidents of gun-related arrests have consistently remained low, with no recorded on-campus incidents. This trend is vital as it reflects a broader societal shift towards reducing gun violence in educational institutions. Similarly, arrests related to drug and alcohol offenses have also shown a downward trajectory, suggesting that initiatives aimed at promoting responsible behavior among students may be taking effect.
The steady decline in crimes such as domestic violence and theft is encouraging, pointing towards a safer campus environment. However, it is essential to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing these issues, as crime can affect student life and overall campus morale. Ongoing education, support services, and a commitment to fostering a positive campus culture are necessary to maintain and further this downward trend.
Monitoring these statistics closely can provide insights into the effectiveness of implemented policies and programs. For more details on calculating crime rates, visit the following link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Eastern Oregon University include David W. Panuelo (Former President of the Federated States of Micronesia), Alireza Shapour Shahbazi (Iranian archaeologist and Achaemenid expert) and Fouad Ajami (Middle East scholar and Hoover Institution senior fellow).
-
David W. Panuelo 1964–
Former President of the Federated States of Micronesia
-
Alireza Shapour Shahbazi 1942–2006
Iranian archaeologist and Achaemenid expert
-
Fouad Ajami 1945–2014
Middle East scholar and Hoover Institution senior fellow
-
Cliff Bentz 1952–
U.S. representative for Oregon's 2nd district
-
Rod Chandler 1942–
Five-term U.S. Representative from Washington
-
Kiara Fontanilla 2000–
Filipino goalkeeper
-
Mike Kyle 1980–
Heavyweight mixed martial artist
-
Betty Roberts 1923–2011
Associate Justice of the Oregon Supreme Court
-
Aren Palik
Vice President of the Federated States of Micronesia
More alumni (7, by field)
Politics and law
-
Greg Smith 1968–
Member of the Oregon House of Representatives
-
Stephen Hale Anderson 1932–
Senior judge, Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals
-
Josie Heath 1937–
Colorado State Land Board member, politician and educator
-
Judy Kennedy 1945–2018
American politician, businesswoman and former mayor
Arts and media
-
William De Los Santos 1965–
Film director, screenwriter and producer
Sports
-
Tyronne Gross 1983–
Former American football running back
-
Isaac Updike 1992–
Steeplechase runner at the 2023 World Championships
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.