Best Online Colleges and Universities in Oregon
Oregon’s eclectic cities and rugged natural beauty capture the unique appeal of a place projected to rank among the fastest-growing U.S. states through 2050. The state’s diversified and modern economy includes thriving professional services and bioscience industries, along with its booming “Silicon Forest” tech sector.
Online colleges in Oregon offer a convenient, cost-effective way to enter and succeed in the Beaver State’s dynamic job market. Explore key details and fast-growing career paths by referencing this state guide.
Oregon at a Glance
- There are 32 four-year nonprofit institutions in Oregon.
- About 38% of adults in the state hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
- In fall 2023, 51.8% of students at Oregon institutions were enrolled in online courses.
- In fall 2023, around 69,000 students aged 25 and over were enrolled at Oregon colleges.
Best Online Colleges and Universities in Oregon
Oregon State University
- Corvallis, OR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Students who plan to attend school online can consider Oregon State University's remote academic programs. A leader in distance learning, the public school supports 50 online programs from its main campus in Corvallis. Distance learners benefit from a supportive online community and academic resources.
In the online classroom environment, enrollees can network with classmates and receive help from professors. Although requirements vary by program, degree candidates complete general education coursework and advanced classes in their field. Before registering for classes, students consult with academic advisors to identify course options aligning with their goals. To be more competitive for professional roles, enrollees can conduct original research and complete internships while earning their degree.
The financial aid office provides details about the various available funding options, which can make higher education more accessible. Students can apply for multiple awards, including need-based grants and merit-based scholarships.
47%
$ 9,846
85%
$29,445
- Acceptance Rate
- 82%
- Students Enrolled
- 31,719
- Institution Type
- Public
Multnomah University
- Portland, OR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Among Multnomah University's academic offerings are excellent online programs that allow students to earn their degree remotely. In addition to delivering on-campus programs from its campus in Portland, the private school offers 10 online programs. The institution's 277 online degree-seekers can access a supportive learning community and institutional resources.
In the virtual classroom environment, enrollees can request individual assistance from instructors. Although requirements vary by program, students complete general education coursework and advanced classes in their field. In consultation with their academic advisor, degree candidates can explore course electives and other academic opportunities to complement their career path. Many enrollees pursue internships to gain professional experience, which can make them more competitive for positions after graduation.
To reduce the financial burden of earning a degree, applicants should explore their funding options and contact the financial aid office. Learners who demonstrate financial need may qualify for federal grants, scholarships, or work-study programs.
44%
$26,440
52%
$26,440
- Acceptance Rate
- 53%
- Students Enrolled
- 635
- Institution Type
- Private
Corban University
- Salem, OR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Enrollees across fields can consider online academic options from Corban University. The school supports three online programs, reaching 203 learners near and far. Working professionals, who may not be able to attend classes during the day, often pursue flexible online programs.
Degree candidates connect with classmates and faculty members through a virtual classroom environment. Many employers accept internships as professional experience, which can make candidates more competitive for positions. Academic advisors help students select classes that align with their interests and career goals. Learners can access resume assistance and mock interviews to ensure they put their best foot forward when approaching employers after graduation.
Degree-seekers should expect to pay varying fees and costs based on their program and course selections. Applicants can contact an admissions counselor for details about program costs. Eligible enrollees can benefit from internal and external funding opportunities to help lower the total.
18%
$32,380
81%
$32,380
- Acceptance Rate
- 85%
- Students Enrolled
- 1,146
- Institution Type
- Private
Eastern Oregon University
- La Grande, OR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Eastern Oregon University delivers online degrees that prepare enrollees for professional roles in a variety of fields. Learners can earn a degree through the school's 23 online programs without relocating or commuting to campus. Flexible scheduling and enrollment options allow online students to earn their degree faster than many on-campus learners.
The virtual classroom environment provides opportunities for enrollees to develop lasting connections and receive individual assistance. Degree-seekers can collaborate with classmates or faculty members on research projects that contribute to their field. Institutional resources, including career services and academic advising, encourage academic and professional success among online students. Learners find support and guidance as they near the end of their program and have the option to participate in career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs.
Students in different programs often have unique costs and educational expenses. Applicants can discuss the exact cost of earning a degree with an admissions counselor. Enrollees who need additional funding can pursue federal student loans, which typically offer better terms than private loans.
68%
$ 7,515
72%
$20,160
- Acceptance Rate
- 98%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,067
- Institution Type
- Public
Oregon Institute of Technology
- Klamath Falls, OR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The academic programs at Oregon Institute of Technology meet the highest standards for online learning. In addition to on-campus offerings, the public institution delivers 15 online programs, through which it educates 1,618 online students. Degree-seekers often save money by living in areas with lower costs of living while attending school.
Students can attend instructors' online office hours. They can also pursue internships to impress employers after graduation. Career services prepare learners to succeed in the workforce after graduation.
Funding options for degree-seekers include institutional scholarships, grants from nonprofits, and federal financial aid. To understand their financial aid options, students can contact the institution's financial aid office. For 78% of the school's enrollees, financial aid of some kind reduces the overall cost of higher education.
30%
$ 8,775
76%
$27,927
- Acceptance Rate
- 97%
- Students Enrolled
- 5,313
- Institution Type
- Public
Portland State University
- Portland, OR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
A leader in online education, Portland State University delivers options for remote students. With a main campus in Portland, the school educates enrollees through in-person classes, along with 8,671 online programs. Distance learners benefit from flexible scheduling options.
Through chat, email, and discussion forums, online students receive opportunities to discuss course material and connect with peers. Research projects present opportunities for learners to bolster their resume while contributing knowledge to their field. Career counselors connect enrollees with resources such as job boards and resume assistance. During career workshops, students can explore professional opportunities aligning with their academic background.
With assistance from the institution's financial aid counselors, applicants can explore many funding options. Enrollees can apply for scholarships based on academic merit and awards reserved for learners in their field. Of all students, 82% receive some form of financial aid.
34%
$ 6,462
74%
$21,528
- Acceptance Rate
- 96%
- Students Enrolled
- 25,321
- Institution Type
- Public
Western Oregon University
- Monmouth, OR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Western Oregon University is a leader in online education. Along with educating enrollees at its Monmouth-based campus, the school offers four distance programs for its 2,032 online enrollees. Busy learners often benefit from the flexibility of an online education.
Degree-seekers can connect with peers and professors through forums and email. Many employers prefer candidates with professional experience, which learners can gain by completing internships or research projects while in school. Institutional resources include academic and career guidance, which help degree candidates stay on track to graduate and prepare for the workforce. As they near graduation, students often participate in mock interviews to prepare to impress prospective employers.
Exploring various funding options with the help of financial aid counselors can help applicants reduce the financial burden of earning a degree. Enrollees often receive scholarships from third parties such as professional organizations and private donors. With 95% of students receiving financial aid, the school's programs are affordable for many degree-seekers.
41%
$ 7,920
74%
$25,830
- Acceptance Rate
- 85%
- Students Enrolled
- 4,929
- Institution Type
- Public
Oregon Health & Science University
- Portland, OR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Working professionals and learners with personal responsibilities can earn a degree from Oregon Health & Science University in a flexible online format. Students based anywhere in the country can enroll in the school's nine online programs. Of the institution's enrollees, 649 study in an online format.
Degree candidates receive opportunities to collaborate with classmates. Participants can develop connections with classmates, which may lead to jobs after graduation. Students can collaborate with professors on original research projects and can pursue internships with local organizations. Academic advisors help online learners choose courses and stay on track for graduation. Networking opportunities and career services help enrollees prepare to succeed in the workforce.
The federal government provides funding to support students with financial need. Learners often benefit from applying to a variety of funding programs, including those offered by private organizations.
22%
$14,220
N/A
$26,028
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 3,017
- Institution Type
- Public
Southwestern Oregon Community College
- Coos Bay, OR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Online learners can take advantage of Southwestern Oregon Community College's premier educational offerings. Offering 28 online programs to 1,250 distance students, the public institution educates individuals located across the country. Online learning features flexibility which can make obtaining a degree easier for working professionals, who often need to set their own schedule.
Degree-seekers often participate in class discussions through forums and chat. Participants can pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, to develop professional skills and improve their resume. Learners can take advantage of institutional resources, such as career services, to prepare to secure professional roles in their field.
In addition to institutional funding, degree-seekers can apply for scholarships and grants from private organizations. To determine whether they qualify for institutional scholarships and fellowships, students should contact the financial aid office. According to the school, 90% of enrollees receive some form of aid.
61%
$4,250
54%
$4,250
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 2,053
- Institution Type
- Public
Chemeketa Community College
- Salem, OR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
An excellent choice for online students, Chemeketa Community College offers high-quality remote academic programs. With a main campus in Salem, the school educates enrollees through in-person classes, along with 3,512 online programs. Busy learners often benefit from the flexibility of an online education.
Degree candidates connect with a supportive online learning community. In addition to internships, research projects provide opportunities for learners to collaborate with professionals in their field and gain practical experience. Institutional resources include academic and career guidance, which help enrollees stay on track to graduate and prepare for the workforce. As they near completion of their program, students can participate in career workshops to prepare to secure employment after graduation.
The institution's financial aid office is an excellent resource for applicants who need help exploring their funding options. Enrollees can apply for scholarships based on field of study or personal background. According to the school, the number of degree-seekers receiving financial aid amounts to 86% of the student body.
38%
$ 4,095
64%
$11,520
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 9,347
- Institution Type
- Public
Tillamook Bay Community College
- Tillamook, OR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Tillamook Bay Community College delivers top-quality educational programming in an online format. In addition to on-campus programs in Tillamook, the school delivers six online programs. Learners from all walks of life can benefit from the flexibility guaranteed by an online education.
Distance learners can participate in discussions and receive assistance from professors through the virtual learning platform. Experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects, help degree-seekers bolster their resume and prepare for the workforce. Academic advisors assist enrollees with course enrollment and provide insights into the field. Mock interviews help students prepare to secure positions in their field after graduation.
When preparing for the costs of education, applicants can speak with a financial aid counselor to explore funding opportunities. Enrollees who demonstrate financial need can submit the FAFSA to apply for federal financial aid. The school reports that 93% of its students receive some form of financial aid.
48%
$3,600
44%
$4,320
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 521
- Institution Type
- Public
Linn-Benton Community College
- Albany, OR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Linn-Benton Community College delivers flexible options for online learners. Students can enroll in the school's online program without relocating to Albany. Of the institution's enrollees, 1,152 study in an online format.
The school fosters a strong online learning community, featuring collaborative opportunities. Participants can communicate with peers through chat and videoconferencing. Some degree-seekers complete original research in collaboration with professors, contributing to their field and gaining practical experience. When registering for classes, learners can consult academic advisors in their department. Enrollees can attend career workshops and job fairs to explore their professional options.
Federal financial aid programs can help students afford higher education. To receive the most funding possible, learners can apply for scholarships, grants, fellowships, and any other awards for which they qualify. The institution's statistics indicate that 80% of enrollees receive financial aid.
21%
$ 4,765
59%
$11,928
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 5,533
- Institution Type
- Public
Clackamas Community College
- Oregon City, OR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Students can pursue Clackamas Community College's premiere academic programs in on-campus and online formats. In addition to on-campus programs in Oregon City, the school delivers 10 online programs. Working professionals in online programs can complete assignments and class requirements on evenings and weekends.
Distance learners benefit from an online learning community, which can lead to professional connections. Degree candidates often complete internships in their field to prepare to succeed in job interviews and their chosen field. Enrollees can discuss their professional prospects with departmental academic advisors and the institution's career counselors. Mock interviews allow students to practice their interpersonal skills and improve their chance of landing a job after graduation.
When preparing for the costs of education, applicants can speak with a financial aid counselor to explore funding opportunities. Enrollees can apply for both institutional funding and private scholarships. Of all students, 81% receive some form of financial aid.
37%
$ 4,635
62%
$12,330
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 6,270
- Institution Type
- Public
Klamath Community College
- Klamath Falls, OR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Enrollees studying online can pursue individual assistance by connecting with professors through email and videoconferencing. Degree-seekers can contribute to their field and enhance their resume by completing original research during their studies. The institution provides resources including career services and academic advising, which help students reach their academic and professional goals. To explore employment options, learners can attend job fairs organized by the school.
Program costs vary based on the student's field. Applicants should speak with an admissions counselor to determine exact costs. Enrollees can submit the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid.
51%
$3,708
51%
$6,282
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 1,715
- Institution Type
- Public
Blue Mountain Community College
- Pendleton, OR
- 2 year
- Campus
- Accredited
Students attending Pendleton-based Blue Mountain Community College can choose from online and in-person academic programs. While studying remotely, the institution's 802 online learners complete rigorous coursework to prepare for the workforce.
The online learning platform allows enrollees to communicate with peers and instructors, receiving assistance and developing professional connections. Learners pursue rigorous coursework in general and advanced classes, preparing them well for the demands of their field. Before registering for classes, students consult with academic advisors to identify course options aligning with their goals. Experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, help enrollees practice working in a professional environment.
Applicants can explore their funding options to minimize student debt and out-of-pocket expenses. Many organizations and associations provide scholarships to students in specific fields.
51%
$4,860
50%
$7,290
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 1,559
- Institution Type
- Public
Who Accredits Online Universities in Oregon?
You must attend a properly accredited school to qualify for federal financial aid and to guarantee the recognition and transferability of the academic credits you earn.
The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) has historically been the primary institutional accreditor of traditional and online colleges in Oregon. Ensure that all Oregon schools you apply to hold accreditation from the NWCCU or another recognized accreditor.
How Much Does College Cost in Oregon?
While some online Oregon universities offer appealing price breaks, the state’s average education costs are higher than the national average. You may need financial aid to help pay for school, and the Oregon state government offers several programs that can help:
- The Oregon Promise Grant can cover up to the full cost of your tuition at an Oregon community college.
- The need-based Oregon Opportunity Grant helps about 30,000 Oregon college students annually.
- Oregon’s Office of Student Access and Completion offers more than 600 scholarships, which collectively award more than $10 million in aid each year.
If you live in another member jurisdiction of the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education, you may also qualify for reduced tuition at public Oregon institutions through the Western Undergraduate Exchange or the Western Regional Graduate Program.
Career Opportunities in Oregon
$53,390
Median annual wage in OR (May 2024)
+10.4%
Projected job growth in OR (2022-2032)
5.0%
Unemployment rate in OR (August 2025)
As a student, you can position yourself for success in Oregon’s evolving job market by targeting a fast-developing employment sector or career path. Oregon’s biosciences, professional services, and technology industries offer many opportunities.
High-growth careers in the state that require only an associate degree include physical therapist assistant and veterinary technologist. Additionally, in-demand jobs that require a bachelor’s degree include data scientist, information security analyst, and medical and health services manager.
Popular Cities for Recent Grads
Portland
- Portland is Oregon’s largest and best-known city.
- Major industries include bioscience, clean tech, IT, and advanced manufacturing.
- Beautiful green spaces and an eclectic vibe rank among the city’s trademark features.
Eugene
- This scenic city sits just west of Willamette National Forest.
- Oregon’s employment department projects job growth will outpace population growth through 2032.
- Government, education, and health services rank among the city’s top employment sectors.
Corvallis
- With a population of about 60,000 people in 2024, Corvallis has a close-knit, small-town feel.
- This city is known as the “Heart of the Valley” and features ample forest and mountain scenery.
- Corvallis is home to Oregon State University.
Frequently Asked Questions
Four-year, degree-granting Portland colleges include Portland State University, Reed College, Warner Pacific University, Lewis & Clark College, and the University of Portland. You can also pursue specialized degree programs at the Pacific Northwest College of Arts, the University of Western States, and Oregon Health & Science University.


