Oregon State University-Cascades Campus

Oregon State University-Cascades Campus, located in the vibrant city of Bend, OR, is a rapidly evolving public branch campus of Oregon State University. Since its founding in 2001, OSU-Cascades has distinguished itself through an ambitious vision for growth, transitioning from a smaller branch to a comprehensive four-year institution. With a current student body of 1374, it is on an exciting trajectory, poised to become a major educational hub in Central Oregon, offering a dynamic and engaging learning environment for prospective students.

The campus's history is marked by significant expansion and legislative support. In 2012, the Oregon State Board of Higher Education approved its transformation into a four-year school, a pivotal moment that accelerated its development. This ambition was solidified by the Oregon Legislative Assembly's approval of $16 million in construction bonds in 2013, followed by a substantial $39 million state-backed bond in 2018. These investments are fueling the construction of new facilities, including a state-of-the-art academic building, underscoring a commitment to advanced education and research.

Academically, OSU-Cascades is strengthening its offerings, particularly in critical STEAM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). The upcoming academic building, scheduled to open in Fall 2021, will feature modern labs and classrooms, housing diverse majors such as kinesiology, engineering, art, and outdoor products. For students, this means access to cutting-edge programs in a collaborative setting. Moreover, the university's forward-thinking approach extends to its physical campus, with plans to expand across over 100 acres, including former landfill and pumice mine sites, envisioning a "net-zero energy, water, and waste" campus. This commitment to sustainability offers a unique and responsible environment for learning and living.

OSU-Cascades is not just growing in size but in its potential. With a projected capacity to serve upwards of 5,000 students within the next decade, it promises a vibrant and expanding student experience within a sustainable and innovative campus. This blend of academic rigor, historical growth, and an eye towards ecological responsibility makes OSU-Cascades an exciting destination for higher education.