Best
Colleges in Oregon in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Oregon builds skills in management, finance, marketing, accounting, economics, and organizational behavior. Programs often include business analytics, entrepreneurship, human resources, and strategic planning, with internships or capstone projects providing practical experience. Graduates commonly pursue roles as business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, operations managers, or entrepreneurs. Oregon colleges offering this degree include the University of Oregon, Oregon State University, Portland State University, University of Portland, and Southern Oregon University statewide.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Oregon explores behavior, mental health, and research through coursework and hands-on experience. Typical courses include developmental psychology, cognition, social psychology, statistics, research methods, and abnormal psychology. Popular colleges offering the degree include the University of Oregon, Oregon State University, Portland State University, Lewis & Clark College, and the University of Portland. Graduates may work as research assistants, case managers, human-resources coordinators, or behavioral technicians; clinical counseling generally requires graduate education and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Oregon combines theoretical foundations with practical skills. Programs typically cover programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and software engineering, often through projects or internships. 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, data scientists, cybersecurity specialists, web developers, or IT consultants. Oregon's technology employers and research organizations offer opportunities.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Oregon can prepare you to support individuals and communities across schools, clinics, and social services. Typical courses include counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, multicultural counseling, group therapy, and supervised practicum. Popular options include Portland State University, Oregon State University, Lewis & Clark College, and George Fox University. Graduates pursue roles as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, behavioral health therapists, career counselors, or substance use counselors, often with further credentials.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Oregon combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, pathophysiology, and nursing ethics. Graduates commonly pursue registered nurse roles in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, or public health; further education can lead to nurse practitioner or nurse educator careers. Popular Oregon options include Oregon Health & Science University, Linfield University, University of Portland, and Oregon State University-Cascades programs.

Best Colleges in Oregon Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 30105.0, compared with 55388.8 at schools in the top 10%. Average financial-aid participation is 100.0% overall and 81.0% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 81.0%. Schools receive an average of 5368.48 applicants, compared with 9289.4 at top-10% schools. The median number of male applicants is 1009.0, while the median number of female applicants is 1264.0.
• Average test scores are 1196.0 on the SAT and 24.09 on the ACT. The average number of enrolled students is 4945.27; average enrollment is 301.08 men and 399.75 women.
• The average graduation rate is 55.15%, compared with 77.0% at top-10% schools. The median graduation rate is 54.0% for men and 58.5% for women.
• There are 13 institutions offering associate's degrees, 31 offering bachelor's degrees, 25 offering master's degrees, and 10 offering doctor's degrees. The ranking includes 28 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial-aid availability with your budget, and consider acceptance rates, test-score averages, and graduation outcomes. The differences between overall figures and those for top-10% schools may help you weigh cost, selectivity, and graduation rates against your priorities.

How much does studying at a college in Oregon cost?

The average reported total cost of studying in Oregon is $32,048.76. For a prospective student, this is a useful planning benchmark, but your actual degree cost will depend on the college, program, residency status, and how long you take to graduate. Tuition and fees average $27,117.77, while housing, meals, and learning materials can shape the budget considerably.

• Tuition and fees average $27,117.77.
• Room and board average $16,473.56.
• Books and supplies average $1,099.62.

At the University of Oregon, Oregon State University, and Portland State University, compare program costs and published cost-of-attendance estimates. Oregon residency, scholarships, grants, commuting, and shared housing can change your out-of-pocket bill. Ask each financial-aid office for a personalized estimate and confirm whether fees, books, and living expenses are included. Thoughtful budgeting and an aid search can make the process feel manageable - and choosing a campus that fits you is an exciting step toward your degree.

How long does it take to finish college in Oregon?

In Oregon, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes two. At the University of Oregon in Eugene, Oregon State University in Corvallis, or Portland State University in Portland, your timeline depends on your major, course availability, and whether you attend full time. Oregon's average graduation rate is 55.15%, indicating that just over half of students in the measured group graduate; among the top 10% of schools, it is 77%. For men, the rate is 53.4%, and for women, 57.19%.

You may finish sooner by bringing in AP or IB credits, taking summer classes, choosing an accelerated program, or transferring eligible community college credits to a university. Oregon students can explore transfer pathways from local community colleges, but confirm requirements with the receiving school before enrolling. A focused schedule and early advising can help you avoid missed prerequisites and make steady progress.

Salary

Graduates in Oregon earn a median alumni salary of $48,488. For graduates of top 10% schools, the median is $73,636.60 - an encouraging benchmark as you consider your options.

• Your actual earnings can vary by field, experience, and employer.
• If you're comparing schools such as the University of Oregon, Oregon State University, or Portland State University, consider how each program fits your career goals; these salary figures don't guarantee outcomes for any particular school or major.

People also ask

What are the three biggest colleges in Oregon?

By student enrollment, Oregon State University, the University of Oregon, and Portland Community College are among the state's largest institutions. Exact rankings depend on the year and how enrollment is counted: community colleges may report students served across an entire year, while universities often report enrollment for a specific term. Portland State University is another large institution.

How many colleges are there in Oregon?

There are 24 public institutions in Oregon: 17 community colleges and 7 public universities. The total number of colleges is higher when private and specialized institutions are included, and it varies depending on what counts as a college. For a prospective student, this means there are options ranging from local community colleges to large public universities.

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

Oregon State University, in Corvallis, is a large public research university with a lively college-town setting and broad academic choices. Its 37,163 enrolled students benefit from the resources of a major campus while studying in Oregon's mid-valley region, within reach of both mountains and coast. The university reports a 70% graduation rate and 77% acceptance rate. Estimated total study cost is $35,700, and median alumni salary is $52,589, useful figures for weighing affordability, completion, and career outcomes after graduation here.

The University of Oregon, located in Eugene, is a public university known for its spirited campus culture and strong connection to the state's arts, athletics, and outdoor life. Its 24,409 students make for a campus community in the southern Willamette Valley. The school's graduation rate is 72%, and its acceptance rate is 88%. Total study cost is $39,922; median alumni salary is $41,326. For Oregon residents, Eugene offers a lively college city and convenient access to recreation and services.

Reed College is a small, academically intensive liberal arts college in Portland, offering a close-knit learning environment in Oregon's largest city. With 1,278 enrolled students, it is markedly smaller than the state's public universities and may appeal to students seeking focused classes and a distinctive campus culture. Reed reports a 71% graduation rate and a 25% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $69,040, while median alumni salary is $33,924. Portland provides urban internships, cultural venues, and transit options for students.

Portland State University is an urban public university in downtown Portland, where students can connect coursework with the city's employers, communities, and cultural life. Its 18,854 enrolled students create a diverse, metropolitan campus experience, especially suited to those who prefer city living over a traditional college town. PSU reports a 53% graduation rate and a 91% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $27,132, and median alumni salary is $48,211. Oregon students may value its location and access to public transit.

Western Oregon University, based in Monmouth, is a smaller public university with a welcoming campus atmosphere in the Willamette Valley. Its 3,504 enrolled students may find a more personal setting than at Oregon's largest campuses, while still benefiting from a broad university community. The school reports a 47% graduation rate and a 98% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $30,105, and median alumni salary is $41,833. Monmouth's quieter setting offers a different pace, with Salem and regional destinations within reach.