Best Online Colleges in Oregon

Discover the top online colleges in Oregon for flexible and affordable education. Explore tuition costs, job prospects, and FAQs in this comprehensive guide.
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Updated on April 22, 2024
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Raneem Taleb-Agha is a copy editor for BestColleges. Previously, she worked as a bilingual educator in both the U.S. and Spain before transitioning to editing and writing. She holds a BA in Spanish and Near Eastern Studies from UC Berkeley....
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If you're considering furthering your education in the Beaver State, you'll be pleased to know that Oregon offers a wealth of high-quality online colleges.

These institutions provide flexible, accessible, and diverse educational opportunities to students across the state and beyond. From liberal arts to professional studies, online colleges in Oregon offer programs to suit various academic interests and career goals.

We'll provide you with comprehensive information about the best online colleges in Oregon, including insights into tuition costs and job prospects in the state.

Featured Online Bachelor's Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Best Online Colleges in Oregon

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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#1 Best Online Colleges in Oregon Best Value

Oregon State University

  • Corvallis, OR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Oregon State University is a public research university located in Corvallis. Annual enrollment typically exceeds 28,000 students, making OSU the largest university in the state. It is one of only four institutions in the country to obtain all four land-, sea-, space-, and sun-grant designations.

Arguably the best online college in Oregon, OSU offers more than 70 undergraduate and graduate programs designed for distance learners. Dozens of diverse disciplines are represented in OSU's online catalog, including business, education, history, wildlife sciences, and public health. Every online student receives access to vital support services including success coaching, online tutoring, and career guidance.

Prospective students must submit transcripts, applicable test scores, and a resume. Additional admission requirements may apply depending on student status and program selection. OSU welcomes postbaccalaureate students seeking a second bachelor's degree. State residency does not impact per-credit tuition prices.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,065
Out-of-state
$29,456
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,446
Out-of-state
$27,297
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: High

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
33,193
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
52% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#2 Best Online Colleges in Oregon Best Value

Oregon Institute of Technology

  • Klamath Falls, OR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The Oregon Institute of Technology is a public polytechnic university dedicated to hands-on, practical education. More than 5,000 students attend classes each year through the residential campus in Klamath Falls, several satellite locations, and one of the best online colleges in Oregon.

Online students can choose from more than a dozen online associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees, as well as certificates. Available areas of study include allied health, engineering, applied psychology, health informatics, and clinical sleep health.

Oregon Tech also offers online bachelor's completion options for registered professionals looking to advance in their field. Completion options are available in seven disciplines, including dental hygiene, radiologic science, and vascular technology. All online students receive access to electronic library resources, an online writing lab, and interactive tutoring.

Admission requirements vary by program selection and student status. Transfer students without a degree must possess a minimum 2.5 GPA in all college coursework. There is no tuition surcharge for out-of-state students.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,572
Out-of-state
$30,465
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,209
Out-of-state
$22,174
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: High

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
4,910
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#3 Best Online Colleges in Oregon

Bushnell University

  • Eugene, OR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Bushnell University is a private Christian college located in Eugene. Originally founded as a divinity school and Bible college, Bushnell became a broad liberal arts institution in 1934 after a merger with Spokane University. Approximately 800 students enroll each year.

Bushnell is one of the best online colleges in Oregon designed specifically with working professionals in mind. Eight undergraduate majors are available online, including four of Bushnell's most popular areas of study: K-12 teacher education (requires some in-person classes), business administration, psychology, and interdisciplinary studies. Registered nurses can pursue an RN-to-BSN pathway or an RN-to-MSN pathway.

Asynchronous courses offer new start dates every eight weeks, and students can earn up to 30 credits for prior life or work experience.

Admission to Bushnell's online programs requires a completed, no-cost application and submission of official transcripts. The school does not require ACT or SAT scores. Tuition rates are not higher for out-of-state students.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,100
Out-of-state
$32,100
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,640
Out-of-state
$17,640
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
686
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
69% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#4 Best Online Colleges in Oregon

University of Oregon

  • Eugene, OR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located on 295 acres along the Willamette River in Eugene, the University of Oregon serves more than 22,000 students each year. This public flagship research university encompasses five colleges, seven professional schools, and one of the best online colleges in Oregon.

UO Online offers more than 170 individual courses from a variety of academic programs. These courses are primarily designed to supplement an on-campus schedule, but non-enrolled individuals can take up to eight credits of UO Online courses per term through the school's community education program.

UO also offers a master's degree in sports product management entirely online. The program combines asynchronous lectures, live discussions, and four on-site residencies to teach the business of creating sports apparel, footwear, and equipment.

Current UO students are eligible to register for online courses through DuckWeb. Entry into the sports product management program requires submission of transcripts, 2-3 letters of recommendation, a resume, essays, and a product project.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,240
Out-of-state
$38,683
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,011
Out-of-state
$28,971
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
23,100
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
42% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#5 Best Online Colleges in Oregon

Linfield University

  • McMinnville, OR
  • 2 years
  • Campus

Linfield University is a private, comprehensive liberal arts institution with a main campus in McMinnville, a second campus in Portland, and one of the best online colleges in Oregon. Combined, these locations enroll more than 2,500 students every year, representing 24 states and 23 countries.

Students have been pursuing distance education programs at Linfield since 1975. Currently, the college offers ten online undergraduate degrees, five minors, and 19 certificates. Students can choose from more than two dozen diverse areas of study, including computer information systems, environmental studies, wine marketing, and creative writing.

Linfield allows eligible students to earn up to 30 credits for prior learning and experience. All students receive access to a virtual writing lab and live tutoring.

To apply, prospective students must provide official transcripts; a $50 fee; and information regarding academic history, employment, and personal background. State residency does not impact tuition costs.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$45,340
Out-of-state
$45,340
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,560
Out-of-state
$16,560
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
1,757
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#6 Best Online Colleges in Oregon

Concordia University-Portland

  • Portland, OR
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Concordia University-Portland is a private, nonprofit liberal arts institution affiliated with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. Approximately 5,800 students attend each year. The university system also operates a law school in Boise, Idaho, one of the best online colleges in Oregon, and branch campuses across the state.

Notable online programs are available in business administration, healthcare administration, and homeland security and emergency management. However, education stands out as the most highly represented online field. Concordia offers two certificates, a bachelor's in early childhood education, three master of education options, and a doctor of education with five concentration tracks. Courses are delivered in a flexible, asynchronous format to provide maximum scheduling flexibility.

Application requirements vary according to program selection and student status. First-time freshmen are not eligible for admission, as Concordia's online undergraduate programs require 12-20 transferable credits. All online learners pay the same tuition rates regardless of state residency.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$31,580
Out-of-state
$31,580
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$20,910
Out-of-state
$20,910
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
5,669
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
78% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
No
#7 Best Online Colleges in Oregon

Portland State University

  • Portland, OR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in the heart of downtown Portland, Portland State University enrolls more than 27,000 students each year. This public research university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in more than 100 fields of study, many of which can be pursued entirely online.

PSU's online catalog includes two educator endorsements, 20 certificates, 11 bachelor's degrees, and nine master's degrees. Dozens of diverse fields are available within seven broad disciplines: business, criminology and criminal justice, education, health, interdisciplinary studies, social work, and urban and public affairs.

Course content follows an asynchronous format, although real-time video conferencing is available in some programs. All online students receive access to resources, including online tutoring, career advising, tech support, and library services.

Admission requirements vary depending on program selection and student status. PSU welcomes postbaccalaureate students looking to pursue a second bachelor's degree or other undergraduate credential. Applicants pay a $50-$65 application fee.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,806
Out-of-state
$29,706
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,817
Out-of-state
$26,040
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
93%
Students Enrolled
21,809
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
43% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#8 Best Online Colleges in Oregon

Southern Oregon University

  • Ashland, OR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Ashland with a satellite campus in Medford, Southern Oregon University provides career-focused, comprehensive education to more than 6,200 students each year. This public liberal arts institution emphasizes both theoretical and experiential learning.

For online learners, SOU offers bachelor's completion programs, master's degrees, and postbaccalaureate endorsement and licensure programs. Business administration studies are available at the undergraduate and graduate level, featuring concentration options such as accounting, management, marketing, and finance. Other areas of study offered to distance learners include early childhood development, criminology and criminal justice, and education. Online courses follow a flexible asynchronous format, allowing for 24/7 access of materials and lectures.

Prospective bachelor's completion students must satisfy varying general education and major-focused prerequisites. Graduate admission requires a cumulative 3.0 GPA in the last 60 credits of undergraduate coursework. Additional requirements may apply depending on program selection.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,236
Out-of-state
$21,492
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,635
Out-of-state
$16,470
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
69%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
5,179
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
53% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#9 Best Online Colleges in Oregon

Corban University

  • Salem, OR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Corban University is a private college located on the outskirts of the state capital, Salem. The independent Chrisitian university is not affiliated with any one denomination. More than 1,000 students attend each year, receiving instruction in liberal arts, professional, and biblical studies.

One of the best online colleges in Oregon, Corban provides a number of options for undergraduates to customize their program according to their professional goals. The online business degree offers concentrations in accounting, leadership and management, and marketing, while the online psychology degree offers a concentration in family studies. Students may also pursue a bachelor's in interdisciplinary studies, which allows for a combination of two or more areas of study.

Prospective students must provide an application, $50 fee, official transcripts, faith statement, and a Christian character reference. Corban recommends a minimum high school GPA of 2.7 and a minimum 2.0 GPA for transferable college courses. Per-credit tuition rates are not impacted by state residency.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$33,688
Out-of-state
$33,688
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,760
Out-of-state
$9,760
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Low

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Low
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
38%
Students Enrolled
1,082
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
25% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#10 Best Online Colleges in Oregon

Eastern Oregon University

  • La Grande, OR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Eastern Oregon University is a public, state-funded institution located in La Grande. EOU offers comprehensive education options for approximately 3,000 undergraduate and graduate students each year.

More than half of all EOU students take at least one class through a flexible delivery format, either online or at one of 11 regional learning centers. Distance learners can pursue their bachelor's degree entirely online. EOU offers more than 30 majors and minors, including an individualized integrative studies option. Available graduate programs include a fully online MBA, a fully online master's in education, and two low-residency master's degrees in teaching and creative writing, respectively.

First-time freshmen must submit a completed application, transcripts, and ACT or SAT scores. All applicants must pay a $50 fee. Prospective transfer students must demonstrate a minimum 2.25 GPA on prior college coursework. State residency does not impact online tuition costs.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,830
Out-of-state
$20,520
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,928
Out-of-state
$17,928
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
98%
Students Enrolled
2,825
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
76% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

How We Rank Schools

At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.

We use datasets from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools and our methodologies. This ranking is from 2022. To learn more, check out our full ranking methodologies.

Cost of College in Oregon

The cost of a college education varies significantly based on the type of institution (public or private), the level of study (undergraduate or graduate), and whether you're an in-state or out-of-state student.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average cost of in-state tuition in Oregon was $11,871 in 2021-22. For out-of-state students, the average cost of tuition was $34,292 at public universities. As an online student, you may be able to pay a flat rate for distance education programs, regardless of your residency status.

Cost of College in Illinois in 2021-2022
Institution Type Average Tuition & Required Fees
Public Four-Year (In-State) $11,871
Public Four-Year (Out-of-State) $34,292
Private Four-Year $45,571
Public Two-Year (In-State) $5,204
Public Two-Year (Out-of-State) $8,865
Source: NCES

10 Fast-Growing Jobs in Oregon

The job market in Oregon is primed for growth in industries such as healthcare, technology, and art. For example, jobs for nurse practitioners are projected to grow 53% between 2022 and 2023. Nurse practitioners in Oregon earn an average annual wage of nearly $145,000.

All the fast-growing positions in the table below require at least a bachelor's degree. Online colleges in Oregon can provide the flexibility and accessibility you need to gain the skills and knowledge for these fast-growing careers.

10 Fast-Growing Jobs in Oregon
Job Job Growth 2022-2032 Average Annual Wage 2023
Nurse Practitioners 53% $144,950
Data Scientists 38% $124,480
Information Security Analysts 37% $112,440
Physician Assistants 36% $141,810
Medical and Health Services Managers 36% $149,450
Curators 34% $59,560
Statisticians 34% $87,650
Museum Technicians and Conservators 33% $49,410
Actuaries 31% $123,920
Veterinarians 31% $115,080
Source: State of Oregon Employment Department, BLS

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Oregon

Can you go to college for free in Oregon?

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There are some scholarship and grant programs that can help you attend college for free in Oregon. The Oregon Promise is a state grant that helps cover tuition at any Oregon community college for recent high school graduates and GED test graduates.

Additionally, Portland State University offers the Tuition-Free Degree program, which covers tuition and most mandatory fees for eligible Oregon students after financial aid is applied. It's always a good idea to explore all available financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs, to help offset the cost of your education.

What is the #1 college in Oregon?

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The University of Oregon (UO) is often considered the top college in the state. Known for its rich educational experience, UO offers more than 300 undergraduate programs across nine schools and colleges. The university is also recognized for its engaging learning environment, vibrant campus life, and strong alumni network.

UO's College of Education, law school, and business school are particularly well-regarded. However, the "best" college can vary depending on your individual academic interests, career goals, and personal circumstances.

What is the cheapest online college in Oregon?

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The most affordable online college in Oregon is Eastern Oregon University, with an in-state tuition cost of $10,671 for the 2023-2024 school year, according to the NCES.

Portland State University, Oregon State University, Oregon Institute of Technology, and Western Oregon University all have tuition price tags under $15,000 for in-state students.

It's important to note that "cheap" doesn't mean "low quality." These colleges offer a variety of online programs that are academically rigorous and designed to prepare you for a successful career.

What is the easiest online college to get into in Oregon?

Chevron Down

Some of the easiest online colleges to get into in Oregon are Eastern Oregon University, with an acceptance rate of 99%; Portland State University, with an admission rate of 93%; and the Oregon Institute of Technology, with an acceptance rate of 93%.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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