Best
Value Colleges in Oregon in 2027

Business Administration

Studying a business administration program in Oregon combines core business skills with regional opportunities in technology, healthcare, tourism, and sustainable industries. Typical coursework includes accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, statistics, entrepreneurship, and organizational behavior. Oregon students can explore programs at the University of Oregon, Oregon State University, Portland State University, and Oregon Tech. Graduates commonly pursue various roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, operations manager, human resources specialist, or financial services associate.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Oregon offers paths through public and private universities, including the University of Oregon, Oregon State University, Portland State University, and Pacific University. Programs typically cover research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, social psychology, cognition, personality, and abnormal psychology. Students build skills in communication, data analysis, and understanding behavior. Bachelor's graduates often pursue roles in human services, case management, recruiting, or behavioral health support; advanced study can lead toward counseling, clinical practice, or research.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Oregon combines rigorous technical training with access to the state's technology and research communities. Courses typically include programming, data structures, algorithms, computer systems, databases, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and software engineering. Popular options include Oregon State University, University of Oregon, Portland State University, and Oregon Institute of Technology. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, web developers, or computer and information research scientists, depending on experience.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Oregon combines coursework in counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, multicultural practice, group counseling, and clinical techniques. Programs often include supervised practicum or internship experience. Oregon institutions offering relevant degrees include Portland State University, Oregon State University, University of Oregon, and Lewis & Clark College. Graduates may pursue roles as school counselors, mental health counselors, substance use counselors, career counselors, or family services specialists, depending on degree level, licensure, and specialization.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Oregon combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Programs commonly cover anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, mental health, and maternal care. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, long-term care facilities, or public health. Oregon options include Oregon Health & Science University, University of Portland, Linfield University, and Oregon Institute of Technology. Compare program accreditation, clinical placements, and licensure outcomes.

Best Colleges in Oregon Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 30,105.0, compared with 55,388.8 at schools in the top 10% of the ranking. Average financial aid coverage is 100.0% overall and 81.0% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 81.0%. Schools receive an average of 5,368.48 applicants overall, compared with 9,289.4 among top-10% schools. The median number of applicants is 1,009.0 men and 1,264.0 women.
• Average test scores are 1,196.0 on the SAT and 24.09 on the ACT.
• Average enrollment is 4,945.27 students. The average number of enrolled men is 301.08, and the average number of enrolled women is 399.75.
• The average graduation rate is 55.15%, while the average for top-10% schools is 77.0%. Median graduation rates are 54.0% for men and 58.5% for women.
• Among the institutions, 13 offer associate's degrees, 31 offer bachelor's degrees, 25 offer master's degrees, and 10 offer doctor's degrees. There are 28 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost with available financial aid, and consider how admissions selectivity, test scores, enrollment, and graduation outcomes align with your priorities. The higher average graduation rate at top-10% schools may be worth weighing against their higher median study cost.

How much does studying at a college in Oregon cost?

For a student in Oregon, the average total cost of studying is about $32,049, making that a useful starting point when planning for a degree. The reported average tuition and fees are $27,118, while room and board average $16,474 and books and supplies add about $1,100. These figures describe different cost measures, so don't add them together as though they were one bill; your actual budget depends on the college, housing choice, and program.

• Average total studying cost: $32,048.76.
• Tuition and fees: $27,117.77.
• Room and board: $16,473.56.
• Books and supplies: $1,099.62.

Compare estimates at the University of Oregon, Oregon State University, and Portland State University, since campus and program choices affect your bill. Housing at home or sharing an apartment, plus financial aid, may reduce what you pay. Treat the statewide average as a planning guide, not a guaranteed price, and check each school's estimate before applying.

How long does it take to finish college in Oregon?

In Oregon, a bachelor's degree typically takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree at a community college usually takes about two. Your timeline may be longer if you attend part time, change majors, or need prerequisite courses; planning a course schedule can help you stay on track.

Students at the University of Oregon, Oregon State University, Portland State University, and Oregon's community colleges can sometimes finish sooner by bringing in AP/IB or dual-credit coursework, taking summer classes, or transferring credits from a two-year college. Ask an adviser to confirm credits count toward your major before enrolling.

The statewide average graduation rate is 55.15%, meaning completion is far from automatic, but the top 10% of schools average 77%. Rates average 53.4% for men and 57.19% for women. These figures can encourage you to compare support services and graduation outcomes while choosing a school; tutoring, advising, and a workload can make the path feel more manageable.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Oregon earn a median alumni salary of $48,488. At schools in the top 10% by alumni salary, the median rises to about $73,637 - a promising benchmark as you plan for life after college.

Whether you're considering Oregon State University, the University of Oregon, or Portland State University, your earnings can vary depending on your field, experience, and career path. These figures offer a useful statewide snapshot, rather than a salary guarantee for any particular school or graduate.

• Median alumni salary: $48,488
• Median alumni salary at top 10% of schools: about $73,637

People also ask

What college in Oregon has the lowest tuition?

There isn't one dependable statewide answer: tuition varies by college, residency, course load, and fees. For Oregon residents, community colleges are generally the lowest-cost starting point compared with four-year universities. To find your cheapest option, compare the current per-credit tuition and mandatory fees at nearby community colleges, then check whether financial aid or local scholarships could lower your total.

What are Tier 1 schools in Oregon?

"Tier 1" is not a single official ranking, but it commonly refers to universities with very high research activity. In Oregon, that description is often associated with Oregon State University, the University of Oregon, and Oregon Health & Science University. Each offers a distinct academic environment, so compare programs and campus experience - not research status alone - when deciding which might suit you.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Value Colleges Ranking in Oregon Ranking in 2026-2027

Oregon State University offers Oregon students a large-campus experience, with 37,163 enrolled students and a 77% acceptance rate. Its 70% graduation rate suggests a strong completion outcome among the listed schools. Estimated total study cost is $35,700, while median alumni salary is $52,589. Based in Corvallis, OSU is known for research, hands-on learning, and programs spanning science, engineering, agriculture, and more. For in-state students, compare the stated total cost with aid and living expenses before deciding on your best fit.

The University of Oregon provides a sizable Eugene campus setting, enrolling 24,409 students. Its 88% acceptance rate is the highest among these five, while its 72% graduation rate is also the strongest. The listed total study cost is $39,922, and median alumni salary is $41,326. Students considering Oregon can explore a broad public-university environment with well-known strengths in liberal arts, business, journalism, and athletics. Compare net price, housing, and academic programs to decide whether Eugene suits your goals and preferences.

Portland State University offers an urban option for Oregon residents who want to study in the state's largest city. It enrolls 18,854 students, has a 91% acceptance rate, and reports a 53% graduation rate. Its listed total study cost, $27,132, is the lowest in this group; median alumni salary is $48,211. The university's downtown Portland location can support connections to city life, internships, and employers. Investigate program-specific outcomes and housing costs when evaluating affordability and career fit for your plans.

Reed College is a small liberal arts college in Portland, offering a more intimate setting than Oregon's large public universities. Its 1,278 enrolled students and 25% acceptance rate distinguish it as the most selective school in this group. The listed graduation rate is 71%; total study cost is $69,040, the highest here, while median alumni salary is $33,924. Prospective students should weigh its close-knit academic experience and challenging curriculum against affordability, financial aid, and their preferred campus scale and values.

Oregon Institute of Technology, often called Oregon Tech, is a career-focused public polytechnic university with campuses in Oregon. It enrolls 5,444 students and has a 95% acceptance rate, the highest in this group. Its 54% graduation rate and $34,900 total study cost offer comparison points; median alumni salary is $77,249, the highest listed. Students interested in applied technical fields may value its practical orientation. Check the specific program, campus, and financial aid details before estimating your own costs and outcomes.