Best Colleges in Oregon 2025
Here are the best colleges and universities in Oregon. Our list will help you find the right kind of school for you.
Key Takeaways
- The best colleges in Oregon stand out for their extensive research opportunities. Many schools are notable for supporting student-driven research and partnerships with industry leaders, offering an innovative and practical learning experience.
- Many of the best colleges in Oregon are known for their rigorous academics, particularly in the liberal arts, encouraging interdisciplinary study and intellectual exploration.
- The best colleges in Oregon offer beautiful, nature-filled campuses with access to outdoor activities, aligning well with the state’s culture of environmental appreciation. This allows students to engage in activities like hiking and exploring local parks, adding a unique lifestyle element to their college experience.
Top 10 Best Colleges in Oregon in 2025
2025 Ranking Update
Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.
In 2025, the top ten schools in our ranking of the best college in Oregon saw no movement. This was a result of all the schools in the ranking making similar improvements to their curriculum, internship opportunities, and other program features.
Best Colleges in Oregon
- #1 Best Public Colleges in Oregon 2025 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Oregon 2024 #1 Best Grad Schools in Oregon 2025 #1 Best Research Universities in Oregon 2025
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: $14,751Expenses: $20,052Starting Salary: $51,300Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe 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.
- #15 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers 2025 #2 Best Public Colleges in Oregon 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Oregon 2024 #2 Best Grad Schools in Oregon 2025
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
83%
Graduation
70%
Student body
40K
Career Outlook for degree at Oregon State University
Cost of Degree: $13,494Expenses: $18,711Starting Salary: $56,700Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOregon 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.
- #1 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship #17 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #17 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #1 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024
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: $67,020Expenses: $19,520Starting Salary: $52,700Cost Recoup Time: 21 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryReed 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.
- #3 Best Public Colleges in Oregon 2025 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Oregon 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in Oregon 2025 #3 Best Research Universities in Oregon 2025
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
93%
Graduation
53%
Student body
28K
Career Outlook for degree at Portland State University
Cost of Degree: $10,617Expenses: $16,785Starting Salary: $50,800Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryPortland 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
- #6 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2025 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Oregon 2024 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2025 #3 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024
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: $54,900Expenses: $19,800Starting Salary: $62,500Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryA 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.
- #2 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024 #2 Best Private Colleges in Oregon 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2025
Tuition + fees
$45K
Acceptance
81%
Graduation
76%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at Willamette University
Cost of Degree: $48,268Expenses: $19,233Starting Salary: $57,900Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWillamette 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.
- #4 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2025 #4 Best Private Colleges in Oregon 2024 #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
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: $62,350Expenses: $18,104Starting Salary: $55,000Cost Recoup Time: 20 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryBe 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.
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2025 #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: $34,740Expenses: $14,280Starting Salary: $45,700Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryHistorically 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.
- #4 Best Grad Schools in Oregon 2025 #4 Best Research Universities in Oregon 2025 #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: $54,466Expenses: $17,908Starting Salary: $51,400Cost Recoup Time: 20 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryBe 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.
- #4 Best Public Colleges in Oregon 2025 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Oregon 2024 #5 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2025
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
88%
Graduation
46%
Student body
11K
Career Outlook for degree at Southern Oregon University
Cost of Degree: $12,093Expenses: $18,747Starting Salary: $43,400Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryEvery 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.
- #5 Best Public Colleges in Oregon 2025 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Oregon 2024 #6 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2025
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
83%
Graduation
48%
Student body
5K
Career Outlook for degree at Western Oregon University
Cost of Degree: $11,025Expenses: $15,381Starting Salary: $43,400Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryAs 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.
- #3 Best Christian Colleges in Oregon 2024 #5 Best Grad Schools in Oregon 2025 #5 Best Research Universities in Oregon 2025 #7 Best Private Colleges in Oregon 2024
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: $40,940Expenses: $18,800Starting Salary: $51,000Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryAs 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
- #6 Best Public Colleges in Oregon 2025 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Oregon 2024 #8 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2025
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
99%
Graduation
38%
Student body
5K
Career Outlook for degree at Eastern Oregon University
Cost of Degree: $10,709Expenses: $17,517Starting Salary: $44,100Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryEastern 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.
- #2 Best Christian Colleges in Oregon 2024 #6 Best Private Colleges in Oregon 2024 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2025 #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: $51,416Expenses: $17,460Starting Salary: $60,300Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryStart 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.
- #7 Best Public Colleges in Oregon 2025 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Oregon 2024 #9 Best Small Colleges in Oregon 2024 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oregon 2025
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: $12,687Expenses: $16,236Starting Salary: $57,800Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryNestled 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.
- #4 Best Christian Colleges in Oregon 2024 #8 Best Private Colleges in Oregon 2024 #4 Best Online Colleges in Oregon 2024 #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Oregon
Tuition + fees
$36K
Acceptance
35%
Graduation
54%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at Corban University
Cost of Degree: $37,208Expenses: $16,486Starting Salary: $40,200Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryCorban 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
- #6 Best Christian Colleges in Oregon 2024 #8 Most Affordable Colleges in Oregon 2024 #10 Best Private Colleges in Oregon 2024 #3 Best Online Colleges in Oregon 2024
Tuition + fees
$20K
Acceptance
72%
Graduation
43%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Warner Pacific University
Cost of Degree: $21,010Expenses: $17,258Starting Salary: $45,200Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryAt 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.
Oregon’s Best Colleges in Your Area of Interest
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.
