Most
Affordable Colleges in Portland in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Portland, OR offers preparation in management, finance, marketing, and organizational leadership. Typical courses include accounting, business law, economics, statistics, human resources, entrepreneurship, and strategic management. Programs often combine classroom learning with projects, internships, or team-based case studies. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations coordinator, sales representative, or entrepreneur. Portland State University, the University of Portland, and Portland Community College offer business programs locally.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Portland, Oregon, combines coursework in research methods, statistics, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social behavior, and abnormal psychology. Students may explore counseling and neuroscience in classes, labs, and internships. Popular options include Portland State University, the University of Portland, Lewis & Clark College, and Reed College. A psychology degree can support careers in case management, human resources, behavioral health, research, education, and community services; advanced counseling or clinical roles require graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Portland, Oregon, combines strong programming fundamentals with opportunities in the region's technology and startup sectors. Typical courses include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, computer systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Portland State University, the University of Portland, and Portland Community College offer study options. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity analysts, web developers, or quality assurance engineers, working for technology companies, businesses, government agencies, and nonprofits.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Portland, Oregon, typically combines psychology, human development, counseling theories, ethics, multicultural practice, assessment, and supervised clinical work. Portland State University offers counselor education programs, while Lewis & Clark College's graduate school offers professional mental health counseling and school counseling study. Graduates may pursue varied roles as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, mental health therapists, substance-use counselors, or case managers, depending on degree level, specialization, state licensure requirements, and additional supervised experience locally.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Portland, Oregon, combines learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and medical-surgical care. Graduates may pursue roles as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, or patient care coordinators, depending on their degree and licensure. Portland options include Oregon Health & Science University, University of Portland, Linfield University's Portland campus, and Portland Community College, which offer pathways at different levels.

Best Colleges in Portland, OR Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 27,894.0, compared with 64,858.6 at schools in the top 10%, a difference of 36,964.6.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid, compared with 67.62% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 67.62%. Schools receive an average of 4,288.62 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 9,183.2 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 1,222.0 men and 2,215.5 women.
• Average test scores are 1,239.33 on the SAT and 26.67 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 3,281.5; average enrollment is 147.25 men and 236.0 women.
• The average graduation rate is 65.29%, compared with 88.0% at top 10% schools. Median graduation rates are 58.5% for men and 75.0% for women.
• Three institutions offer associate's degrees, 11 offer bachelor's degrees, 10 offer master's degrees, and five offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 10 coeducational schools, no schools for men, and no schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost with financial aid availability, and consider how acceptance rates, applicant volume, test scores, and graduation rates align with your priorities. The higher cost and graduation rate reported for top 10% schools show why it is useful to weigh outcomes against affordability rather than relying on a single factor.

How much does studying at a college in Portland, OR cost?

The supplied estimate puts the average cost of studying in Portland, Oregon, at $35,271.80. Treat this as a typical study-cost figure, not a guaranteed price for an entire degree: your actual bill depends on the college, program, residency, housing, and how many years you attend. Portland offers appealing choices, from Portland State University and Portland Community College to the University of Portland and Reed College, but their individual tuition and aid packages differ.

• Average tuition and fees: $33,229.64.
• Average room and board: $18,489.75.
• Average books and supplies: $1,373.88.

These are reported averages; the listed categories add up to more than the reported total, so treat them as separate benchmarks rather than a reconciled bill. To plan, compare each school's net price after grants and scholarships, then include transportation and fees. Living at home or choosing a community-college pathway may lower costs while staying close to Portland's student life.

How long does it take to finish college in Portland, OR?

In Portland, OR, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study; an associate degree usually takes two. At Portland State University or the University of Portland, your timeline depends on your major, course availability, and enrollment pace. Portland Community College offers a flexible starting point, and transferable credits can help you continue toward a bachelor's degree.

You may finish faster with AP/IB credits, summer courses, heavier loads, or transfer credits; check how each school accepts them. Ask advisers about year-round or accelerated pathways and map prerequisites early, so required classes don't delay your progress.

Graduation rates provide context: the average is 65.29%, and the top 10% of schools average 88.0%. The average is 58.17% for men and 66.14% for women. These figures show many students earn their degrees, while planning, steady support, and a manageable course load can help you stay on track in Portland with added confidence.

Salary

After graduating from college in Portland, OR, you can use $51,224 a year as a median alumni salary benchmark. Graduates of schools in the top 10% have a median alumni salary of about $76,209, showing the potential upside of attending a higher-performing school.

Portland offers options such as Portland State University, the University of Portland, Reed College, and Portland Community College. Your own earnings can vary with your field of study, degree level, and experience, so compare programs and career paths as you plan. The figures provide an encouraging starting point for thinking about your opportunities after graduation.

People also ask

How much does it cost to go to college in Portland?

Costs depend on the school, your residency, and whether you mean tuition alone or the full cost of attendance. As a rough guide, a full-time Oregon resident might budget around $5,000-$7,000 a year for tuition and fees at a community college, and roughly $12,000-$15,000 at a public four-year university. Housing, food, books, and transportation add substantially.

What college in Portland has the lowest tuition?

Portland Community College is often among the lowest-cost choices for local students, particularly for Oregon residents who qualify for its in-district tuition rate. Your total depends on credits, fees, and program requirements, so compare the current per-credit rates before enrolling. Community college can also be a practical, encouraging way to complete general education courses affordably.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Portland, OR Ranking in 2026-2027

Portland State University is a public urban university in downtown Portland, giving students access to city neighborhoods, transit, internships, and cultural resources. It enrolls 18,854 students and reports a 53% graduation rate and 91% acceptance rate. The total annual cost of studying is $27,132, while median alumni salary is $48,211. For a Portland-area student, its central location can make local study and work connections convenient, though housing and transportation costs should be considered alongside tuition and fees when comparing options.

American College of Healthcare Sciences is a Portland-based private college focused on holistic health and integrative medicine education. Its programs may appeal to students seeking health-related study with a wellness perspective. The school enrolls 1,052 students, with a reported 100% graduation rate and 53% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $9,840, and median alumni salary is $21,094. Portland residents can explore local health communities while studying in Portland, but should confirm program format, accreditation, and career outcomes before enrolling there.

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is Portland's public academic health center, focused on health education and research. Its 2,942 enrolled students can study in a setting closely connected to clinical care and biomedical research. The reported total cost is $28,656, and median alumni salary is $100,438. Graduation and acceptance rates are unavailable in the supplied data. For Portland students pursuing healthcare careers, nearby hospitals and research environments may offer valuable context, though program-specific requirements and costs need careful checking.

Warner Pacific University is a private Christian university in Portland, offering a close-knit campus environment and a faith-informed approach to learning. It enrolls 383 students and reports a 49% graduation rate and 71% acceptance rate. The total cost of studying is $21,260, and median alumni salary is $54,237. Its student population may suit learners who prefer a campus setting. For Portland-area students, studying can reduce relocation needs and support community connections, but compare financial aid and program availability before choosing.

Warner Pacific University Professional and Graduate Studies serves students seeking professional or graduate education through a Portland-based university division. Its offerings may be relevant to adults returning to school or advancing careers, though applicants should verify program formats and schedules. Enrollment and graduation-rate figures are unavailable in the supplied data; the acceptance rate is 59%. Total study cost is $14,640, and median alumni salary is $54,237. Portland residents can pursue education without leaving the region, comparing curriculum, aid, and career fit.