Best Colleges in Oregon 2024

Badge for BEST IN OREGON COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES
By Dr. James Barham
Published:
Updated:

Here are the best colleges and universities in Oregon. Our list will help you find the right kind of school for you.

Best Colleges in Oregon 2024

  1. University of Oregon
    • Most Popular Degrees: Psychology, Sociology, and Computer Science
  2. Oregon State University
    • Most Popular Degrees: Chemistry, Earth Sciences, and Biology
  3. Reed College
    • Most Popular Degrees: Anthropology, Psychology, and Mathematics
  4. Portland State University
    • Most Popular Degrees: Criminal Justice, Social Work, and Sociology
  5. University of Portland
    • Most Popular Degrees: Nursing, Business, and Computer Science
  6. Willamette University
    • Most Popular Degrees: Economics, Law, and Political Science
  7. Lewis & Clark College
    • Most Popular Degrees: Anthropology, Sociology, and Literature
  8. Bushnell University
    • Most Popular Degrees: Biology, Philosophy, and Social Work
  9. Pacific University
    • Most Popular Degrees: Medical, Social Work, and Chemistry
  10. Southern Oregon University
    • Most Popular Degrees: Education, Communications, and Biology

Best Colleges in Oregon 2023

  1. #1

    University of Oregon

    Eugene , OR
    #1 Best Public Colleges in Oregon 2024 #1 Best Research Universities in Oregon 2024 #1 Best Grad Schools in Oregon 2024 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Oregon 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    24K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1255/27

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Oregon

    Cost of Degree: $14,112
    Expenses: $18,585
    Starting Salary: $51,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    The University of Oregon is an active promoter of innovation and change. They have a track record of 100 years of experience when it comes to supporting Oregon’s growth and expansion.

    What we love about the University of Oregon:

    Students at the University of Oregon are encouraged to prepare for impactful lives and careers. The university provides students from around the world access to the best quality education through their experienced professors.

    The University of Oregon is ideal for students who:

    Want to be part of an innovative school.

    The University of Oregon might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer smaller class sizes.

    Compare school
  2. #2

    Oregon State University

    Corvallis , OR
    #15 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #2 Best Public Colleges in Oregon 2024 #2 Best Research Universities in Oregon 2024 #2 Best Grad Schools in Oregon 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    70%

    Student body

    40K

    Career Outlook for degree at Oregon State University

    Cost of Degree: $12,664
    Expenses: $17,679
    Starting Salary: $56,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Oregon State University has a long history of providing quality instruction to diverse students. They offer more than 200 academic programs which include online and traditional programs.

    What we love about Oregon State University:

    They make use of modern approaches to teaching and learning.

    Oregon State University is ideal for students who:

    Want to collaborate with others to build a better future.

    Oregon State University might not be the best fit for students who:

    May struggle with perpetual rainy weather.

    Compare school
  3. #3

    Reed College

    Portland , OR
    #3 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #10 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2024 #16 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #18 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $65K

    Acceptance

    31%

    Graduation

    80%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1410/31

    Career Outlook for degree at Reed College

    Cost of Degree: $64,760
    Expenses: $18,550
    Starting Salary: $52,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 21 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Reed College is considered one of the most academically rigorous colleges in the state. They are known for preparing students to be engaged citizens.

    What we love about Reed College:

    Reed College produces graduates who are creative thinkers and active contributors to communities and organizations. They boast 26 academic departments so that learners can choose from diverse programs.

    Reed College is ideal for students who:

    Want to study in a school that applies conference-style learning.

    Reed College might not be the best fit for students who:

    May find the courses and programs overly demanding.

    Compare school
  4. #4

    Portland State University

    Portland , OR
    #3 Best Public Colleges in Oregon 2024 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in Oregon 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in Oregon 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    93%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    28K

    Career Outlook for degree at Portland State University

    Cost of Degree: $10,206
    Expenses: $18,639
    Starting Salary: $50,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Portland State University is a place where students are encouraged to pursue their dreams and test out their ideas. The institution is considered one of the most innovative but affordable public research universities in the nation.

    What we love about Portland State University:

    Students at Portland State University are emboldened to pursue their research interests. The university is a testbed for learners, and they are equipped and set up to work closely with supportive professors, organizations, and industry leaders.

    Portland State University is ideal for students who:

    Want to pursue research studies.

    Portland State University might not be the best fit for students who:

    May find the school to be too large.

    Portland State University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Technology And Analytics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Technology And Analytics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Resources Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Human Resources Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Management And Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Management And Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Supply And Logistics Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminology And Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminology And Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Arts And Letters
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Cultural History Of The Arts
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Liberal Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Liberal Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Philosophy
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Philosophy
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Social Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Social Work
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Health Studies: Aging
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Public Health Studies: Aging
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Health Studies: Community Health Promotion
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Public Health Studies: Community Health Promotion
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  5. #5

    University of Portland

    Portland , OR
    #6 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Oregon 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2024 #3 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $52K

    Acceptance

    93%

    Graduation

    79%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1319/29

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Portland

    Cost of Degree: $51,812
    Expenses: $21,004
    Starting Salary: $62,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    A Catholic university in the state of Oregon, the University of Portland admits students from all over the world. Their mission is to educate the student’s heart, mind, and hands.

    What we love about the University of Portland:

    There are more than 1300 courses available at the University of Portland so that every student can study diverse fields. There are also many extra-curricular activities available for students to make their college experience fun.

    The University of Portland is ideal for students who:

    Want to participate in internships and research.

    The University of Portland might not be the best fit for students who:

    Need a school that comes with more affordable tuition.

    Compare school
  7. #6

    Willamette University

    Salem , OR
    #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2024 #2 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024 #2 Best Private Colleges in Oregon 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $45K

    Acceptance

    81%

    Graduation

    76%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Willamette University

    Cost of Degree: $45,260
    Expenses: $16,852
    Starting Salary: $57,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Willamette University produces graduates who will be ready for their future and careers. The university is known for being interactive, interconnected, interdisciplinary, and innovative.

    What we love about Willamette University:

    Willamette University is focused on raising and growing leaders of societies. Every student can take advantage of the many activities offered outside of the classroom.

    Willamette University is ideal for students who:

    Want to be a part of a vibrant campus community.

    Willamette University might not be the best fit for students who:

    May want to attend a school with more students.

    Compare school
  8. #7

    Lewis & Clark College

    Portland , OR
    #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2024 #4 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024 #4 Best Private Colleges in Oregon 2024 #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    69%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1330/30

    Career Outlook for degree at Lewis & Clark College

    Cost of Degree: $59,684
    Expenses: $17,486
    Starting Salary: $55,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Be a part of a close-knit community when you enroll at Lewis and Clark College. Their learning strategy combines both forward-thinking collaboration and traditional liberal arts.

    What we love about Lewis and Clark College:

    Lewis and Clark College is dedicated to sustainability and service learning. There is also a wide variety of disciplines and fields of study to pursue, compatible with any kind of learner.

    Lewis and Clark College is ideal for students who:

    Want to develop their creativity and critical thinking skills.

    Lewis and Clark College might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer numerous, as opposed to limited, class options.

    Compare school
  9. #8

    Bushnell University

    Eugene , OR
    #5 Best Christian Colleges in Oregon 2024 #9 Best Private Colleges in Oregon 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    67%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Bushnell University

    Cost of Degree: $33,220
    Expenses: $13,780
    Starting Salary: $45,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Historically affiliated with the Christian Church, Bushnell University is focused on designing an education intended for your life. Students can learn about their purpose and answer God’s calling.

    What we love about Bushnell University:

    At Bushnell University, they value wisdom, service, and faith. You can expect to receive an excellent education and guidance on how to follow through with your life’s purpose.

    Bushnell University is ideal for students who:

    Want to study at a faith-based university.

    Bushnell University might not be the best fit for students who:

    May find the living options too expensive.

    Compare school
  10. #9

    Pacific University

    Forest Grove , OR
    #4 Best Research Universities in Oregon 2024 #4 Best Grad Schools in Oregon 2024 #5 Best Private Colleges in Oregon 2024 #7 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $52K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1180/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Pacific University

    Cost of Degree: $52,072
    Expenses: $17,258
    Starting Salary: $51,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Be a part of a diverse learning community when you join Pacific University. They offer numerous academic programs that range from undergraduate degrees to graduate and professional programs.

    What we love about Pacific University:

    You can thrive at Pacific University as you’ll be able to develop professional relationships with mentors, classmates, and career counselors. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to pursue ideas and research opportunities.

    Pacific University is ideal for students who:

    Want to study in a school with cutting-edge research facilities.

    Pacific University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are wanting lower tuition rates.

    Compare school
  11. #10

    Southern Oregon University

    Ashland , OR
    #4 Best Public Colleges in Oregon 2024 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Oregon 2024 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2024 #5 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    46%

    Student body

    11K

    Career Outlook for degree at Southern Oregon University

    Cost of Degree: $11,691
    Expenses: $18,318
    Starting Salary: $43,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Every faculty and staff member at Southern Oregon University is dedicated to supporting student success and to preparing them to enter the workforce. There are capstone projects, research, and internships available to students to maximize learning.

    What we love about Southern Oregon University:

    Southern Oregon University promotes a multicultural and inclusive community on its campus. All students are encouraged to apply their learning in ways that will be meaningful to the world and society.

    Southern Oregon University is ideal for students who:

    Want to be a part of a diverse university.

    Southern Oregon University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Would like a larger amount of dining options.

    Compare school
  13. #11

    George Fox University

    Newberg , OR
    #3 Best Christian Colleges in Oregon 2024 #5 Best Research Universities in Oregon 2024 #5 Best Grad Schools in Oregon 2024 #7 Best Private Colleges in Oregon 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $40K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    71%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1155/25

    Career Outlook for degree at George Fox University

    Cost of Degree: $39,540
    Expenses: $16,850
    Starting Salary: $51,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    As a Christian college in Oregon, George Fox University provides its learners with numerous and diverse global opportunities. They offer more than 70 undergraduate and graduate programs.

    What we love about George Fox University:

    Every student will feel at home at George Fox University. They can develop personally, professionally, and spiritually.

    George Fox University is ideal for students who:

    Want to have professors who are all Christians.

    George Fox University might not be the best fit for students who:

    May find their tuition fees to be expensive.

    George Fox University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Management And Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 126
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Project Management
    • Required Credits: 126
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Social And Behavioral Studies
    • Required Credits: 126
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  14. #12

    Western Oregon University

    Monmouth , OR
    #5 Best Public Colleges in Oregon 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Oregon 2024 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2024 #6 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    48%

    Student body

    5K

    Career Outlook for degree at Western Oregon University

    Cost of Degree: $10,602
    Expenses: $14,556
    Starting Salary: $43,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    As a public university, Western Oregon University boasts a small class size with personalized instruction from professors. 41% of the entire school are people of color, creating a diverse and inclusive community.

    What we love about Western Oregon University:

    First-generation students are well-supported at Western Oregon University. The institution also offers numerous academic programs that will fit your goals.

    Western Oregon University is ideal for students who:

    Want to study at an all-inclusive school.

    Western Oregon University might not be the best fit for students who:

    May find the school lacking in extra-curricular activities.

    Compare school
  15. #13

    Warner Pacific University

    Portland , OR
    #6 Best Christian Colleges in Oregon 2024 #8 Most Affordable Colleges in Oregon 2024 #10 Best Private Colleges in Oregon 2024 #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Oregon
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $20K

    Acceptance

    72%

    Graduation

    43%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Warner Pacific University

    Cost of Degree: $20,240
    Expenses: $12,672
    Starting Salary: $45,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    At Warner Pacific University, students will have a practical but transformative learning experience. Most of their students represent diverse backgrounds.

    What we love about Warner Pacific University:

    Warner Pacific University welcomes all kinds of learners from different cultures and backgrounds. Students representing low-income families are still able to afford education, thanks to their affordable tuition rates.

    Warner Pacific University is ideal for students who:

    Want to attend a diverse university.

    Warner Pacific University might not be the best fit for students who:

    May find the school too small, as the school typically enrolls less than 1,000 students.

    Compare school
  16. #14

    Eastern Oregon University

    La Grande , OR
    #6 Best Public Colleges in Oregon 2024 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Oregon 2024 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2024 #8 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    38%

    Student body

    5K

    Career Outlook for degree at Eastern Oregon University

    Cost of Degree: $10,196
    Expenses: $15,465
    Starting Salary: $44,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Eastern Oregon University started as a teacher’s college and is now known for its culture and scholarship. Personalized instruction and mentorship are provided by professors to all students.

    What we love about Eastern Oregon University:

    Students will be able to learn, live, and succeed at Eastern Oregon University. Whether you’re looking to study on their campus or online, they have many academic programs to choose from.

    Eastern Oregon University is ideal for students who:

    Want to participate in programs that are priced cheaper than most public and private universities.

    Eastern Oregon University might not be the best fit for students who:

    May find the school’s location too isolated or would want to go to college in a bigger city.

    Compare school
  17. #15

    Oregon Institute of Technology

    Klamath Falls , OR
    #7 Best Public Colleges in Oregon 2024 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Oregon 2024 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2024 #9 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    93%

    Graduation

    57%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1152/26

    Career Outlook for degree at Oregon Institute of Technology

    Cost of Degree: $12,122
    Expenses: $15,321
    Starting Salary: $57,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Nestled between nature and the city lies the Oregon Institute of Technology. The institution provides students with diverse learning opportunities such as internships, externships, and field experiences.

    What we love about Oregon Institute of Technology:

    The Oregon Institute of Technology offers about 50 undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate degrees. All the professors are hands-on and dedicated to ensuring that students get the best quality education.

    Oregon Institute of Technology is best for students who:

    Want to study programs in health professions, communications, or business.

    Oregon Institute of Technology might not be the best fit for students who:

    May find their campus too remote.

    Compare school
  19. #16

    Linfield University

    McMinnville , OR
    #2 Best Christian Colleges in Oregon 2024 #6 Best Private Colleges in Oregon 2024 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2024 #10 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $47K

    Acceptance

    89%

    Graduation

    71%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Linfield University

    Cost of Degree: $49,417
    Expenses: $17,400
    Starting Salary: $60,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Start building your future with the help of Linfield University. Students can broaden their perspectives and deepen their learning thanks to the unique learning experiences offered by the university.

    What we love about Linfield University:

    You can be part of a genuine community here at Linfield University. They boast a strong and hands-on faculty and emphasize proactive collaborations.

    Linfield University is ideal for students who:

    Want to pursue their passion.

    Linfield University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Don’t want to be in a small community.

    Compare school
  20. #17

    Corban University

    Salem , OR
    #4 Best Christian Colleges in Oregon 2024 #8 Best Private Colleges in Oregon 2024 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2024 #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Oregon
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    35%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Corban University

    Cost of Degree: $35,767
    Expenses: $15,688
    Starting Salary: $40,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Corban University, a Christian university in Salem, Oregon, features “a transformative learning culture.”

    What we love about Corban University:

    Corban focuses on the core values of being God-focused and people-oriented. The university also values academic excellence.

    Corban University is ideal for students who:

    Want to attend a school with active sports activities.

    Corban University might not be the best fit for students who:

    May find their tuition fees to be too expensive.

    Corban University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business
    Degree Concentrations
    • Accounting
    • Leadership And Management
    • Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    Degree Concentrations
    • Family Studies
    • Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
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Oregon’s Best Colleges in Your Area of Interest

Anthropology Biology Business Chemistry Commun­ications Computer Science Criminal Justice Earth Sciences Economics Education Engineering History Law Literature Mathematics Medical Nursing Philosophy Physics Political Science Psychology Religious Studies Social Work Sociology

Related: Differences between research universities and teaching colleges

We’ve identified 17 colleges and universities in Oregon that meet our criteria. This list of the top colleges in Oregon focuses on schools that offer bachelor’s degrees. The ranking features fully accredited public and private colleges and universities in Oregon.

2021 Ranking Archive

Many of our 2024 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2023. That’s because we took a fundamentally different approach. For 2024 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.

  1. Reed College
  2. Lewis & Clark College
  3. University of Oregon
  4. Willamette University
  5. Oregon State University
  6. Pacific University
  7. Linfield University
  8. University of Portland
  9. Portland State University
  10. Oregon Institute of Technology
  11. George Fox University
  12. Warner Pacific University
  13. Corban University
  14. Bushnell University
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