Top 20 Best Online Colleges in Oregon

Oregon Online Colleges

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Online Colleges in Oregon

Continuing our series of best online college by state rankings, we have examined all online colleges in Oregon and chosen to showcase the top 20 schools, based on the methodology stated below.

The great state of Oregon is located on the western coast of the United States and is one of only three contiguous states to be located on the Pacific coastline. The state is home to volcanoes, including Mount Hood which is the highest point in the state. Crater Lake National Park is home to the nation’s deepest lake. Also, Oregon is home to the single largest organism in the world — a fungus that runs beneath 2,200 acres of the Malheur National Forest known as Armillaria ostoyae. Along with forests, volcanoes, and waterways, the state also has high deserts and semi-arid shrublands for an abundance of diverse natural beauty.

While the capital city of Oregon is Salem, Portland is the largest city in the state and is the 26th most populous city in the country. In fact, the metropolitan area of Portland stretches over state lines to include Vancouver, Washington. While timber is a huge industry in Oregon, so is technology as the state is home to the Silicon Forest in the northwestern part of the state. Also, Nike, Inc is headquartered in Beaverton and is the largest public corporation in Oregon.

In addition to having diverse natural surroundings and a strong industrial presence, Oregon is also home to some of the finest institutions of higher education in the nation. If students are looking for the best online degree programs and online colleges in Oregon, they need look no further. This ranking was designed so that students and prospective students of any age could see what Oregon has to offer.

Methodology

Sources used for this ranking include:

In order for a school to be in this ranking for the best online colleges in Oregon, the presence of online programs and courses were required. In some cases there may be minimal participation required on campus. This is one of the benefits of finding a local online school. The schools were ranked by first adding together the percentage numbers for freshman satisfaction and graduation rates. Then, a numerical equivalent of the academic and overall grades provided by Niche, with A+ being 100, A being 90 and so on in this manner, were added to these numbers.

Affordability can be an important factor, therefore, the (residential) cost of attendance was rounded to the nearest thousand and then that was subtracted from the total of the previous numbers resulting in the final ranking score. While not all schools cost more for out of state students, it can be another important factor in deciding to attend one of these local schools for online courses if you are an Oregon resident.

Example: 84 (percent freshman satisfaction) + 47 (4-year graduation rate) + 70 (B+ Academic Grade) + 90 (A Overall Grade) = 291
291 (total from above) – 42 ($42,025 cost of attendance) = 249 (final score for ranking)

Notes: No schools in any of OnlineCollegePlan’s rankings are given preferential treatment and we have never been requested to do so. Our methodology is fully disclosed so that anyone is able to arrive at the same ranking using the formula as explained. Some institutions may be ranked lower due to some information being unavailable. In cases of a tie score, alphabetical order was used to break the tie.

Students may also be interested in checking out the “Top 100 Best Online Colleges” which covers the overall best institutions in the United States.

20. Western Seminary

Portland Baptist Bible Institute was organized in the winter of 1925 through the work of Walter B. Hinson. In the following year, further efforts were begun to establish a graduate-level seminary to provide a theological education of greater depth in the Northwestern United States. The Western Baptist Theological Seminary was officially dedicated on October 4, 1927.

Western Seminary can trace its origins back to the winter of 1925 when the Portland Baptist Bible Institute was organized by Walter B. Hinson. Later that year efforts were begun to establish a graduate-level seminary in the Northwestern United States. In 1927, the Western Baptist Theological Seminary was officially dedicated. Since those days, the institution has grown and expanded. Today, alongside the Online and Portland campus, there is also the Western Seminary San Jose Campus, Sacramento Campus, as well as a Seattle Teaching Site. Prospective students may want to check out the Western Seminary tuition and fees page of their website for more information on the costs of attendance.

The administrative offices for Western Seminary Online campus are located in Milliken Hall at the Portland Campus. Online campus students have access to the same resources and support as campus-based students. This includes the Western Seminary Online Support Staff, Student Services Office, Advising Services, Financial Aid Office, and access to a wealth of online library resources. Western Seminary students also receive Logos Bible Software, allowing them direct access to a massive theological library that’s accessible on any device. Also, students are able to keep every Online campus multimedia course, allowing them to have Western Seminary’s internationally-respected faculty as part of their ministry study whenever they need them.

Currently online for graduate students is a Master of Divinity (M.Div.), Master of Arts (Biblical and Theological Studies), Master of Arts in Ministry and Leadership, Graduate Studies Diploma, and a Graduate Studies Certificate. Students who wish to blend online and on-campus courses are able to earn a Master of Arts in Counseling, Master of Arts in Marital and Family Therapy, or a Master of Arts in Global Leadership. There are also 2 Personal Enrichment Programs offered which are Advanced Studies Certificate and Audit Seminary Courses.

Western Seminary Notable Alumni:

  • Timothy Francis “Tim” LaHaye – American evangelical Christian minister, speaker, and author
  • Mark A. Driscoll – American evangelical Christian pastor & author
  • Matt Mikalatos – Christian author, speaker, & missionary
  • Stu Weber – American pastor & author
  • Max Anders – author
  • Chaplain Gary P. Weeden – command chaplain for United States European Command & formerly the 9th Chaplain of the United States Coast Guard
  • Douglas W. “Doug” Isaacson – American politician & Republican member of the Alaska House of Representatives

If you wish to learn more or would like to connect, please use the following links:

Western Seminary’s Website – https://www.westernseminary.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/westernseminary

Twitter – https://twitter.com/WesternSeminary

19. University of Western States

Portland, Oregon is home to University of Western States (UWS). The school was founded back in 1904 and originally named the Marsh School and was the second oldest chiropractic program in the world at the time. The school changed names in 1967 to Western States Chiropractic College and only this century changed to the current name. The University of Western states acceptance rate would be considered at 100% as they have open enrollment with a $50 application fee. Students who are interested learning more about the cost of University of Western States tuition costs can check their admissions and tuition page on their website. There are currently just under 1,000 students attending the university both on-campus or online. The University of Western States regional accreditation is by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), an independent, non-profit membership organization that has been recognized by the United States Department of Education since 1952. For more information about accreditation, students can view the accreditation portion of the UWS website.

Among online programs available at the University of Western States, there are Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine programs for an M.S. or Graduate Certificate. Also, there is a 100-percent online pre-professional science program which is an undergraduate prerequisite fulfillment program for students who want to get started in an integrative healthcare professional degree program.

Among the University of Western States Notable Alumni are many doctors and fascinating professionals, to learn more about alumni, students can visit the Faces of UWS page of their website.

If you wish to learn more or would like to connect, please use the following links:

UWS’s Website – https://www.uws.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/UniversityofWesternStates

Twitter – https://twitter.com/UWS_news

18. Marylhurst University

Located in Marylhurst, Oregon, a few miles south of Portland is Marylhurst University ranking at number 18. The school is among one of the oldest degree-granting collegiate institutions in the state with the first degrees being awarded as early as 1897. Marylhurst University is Oregon’s oldest Catholic university and it was the first liberal arts college for women established in the Northwest area.

Marylhurst University online MBAs are offered in order to help today’s professionals get the degree they want in a flexible format designed for working adults. Currently available online there is a traditional MBA program as well as programs for an MBA in Health Care, MBA in Sustainability, and an MBA in Real Estate so that no matter which business students are working in, there is an MBA program available to help advance their career.

Marylhurst University Notable Alumni:

  • Barbara Roberts – former Governor of Oregon
  • Shane Bemis – Mayor of Gresham, Oregon
  • Jodi Hack – American politician
  • Julie Parrish – American politician & Republican member of the Oregon House of Representatives
  • Elizabeth Engstrom (Bette Lynn Gutzmer) – author and speculative fiction writer
  • Madeline DeFrees – poet & author
  • Elizabeth Engstrom – author
  • Mary F. Sammons – president and CEO of Rite Aid

If you wish to learn more or would like to connect, please use the following links:

Marylhurst University’s Website – https://www.marylhurst.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/marylhurst/

Twitter – https://twitter.com/Marylhurst

17. New Hope Christian College

New Hope Christian College (NHCC) makes its home in Eugene, Oregon and in fact was once Eugene Bible College. The four-year Bible college was founded by Fred Hornshuh in 1925 and is now located on a 36-acre campus. New Hope Christian College enrollment is just over 100 students. Prospective students interested to find out more about New Hope Christian College tuition can check out their webpage for student expenses for more information on costs.

New Hope Christian College basketball is highly popular and is offered as a men’s sport. Women’s volleyball is also popular as is track and cross country. NHCC teams are known as the Deacons and are members of The NCCAA Div. I West Region.

While many of the programs offered at New Hope Christian College are on campus, including areas of study such as pastoral studies, Christian counseling, Christian education, worship arts, and youth ministry. The college also offers business programs as well as intercultural studies. Currently, the only program offered online is an Online Associate of Science in Ministry Leadership.

New Hope Christian College Notable Alumni:

  • Robert F. Burt – United States Navy admiral
  • Ray Rexius – business owner
  • Charity Gaye Finnestad – writer
  • Wayne Cordeiro – evangelist, Pastor, author, church planter, president of NHCC
  • Roger E. Olson – theologian
  • Scott Wood – Pastor
  • Terry Riley – Pastor
  • Chris Kiriakos – musician & Pastor

If you wish to learn more or would like to connect, please use the following links:

NHCC’s Website – https://beta.newhope.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/newhopecollege/

Twitter – https://twitter.com/newhopecollege

16. Eastern Oregon University

Located in La Grande, Eastern Oregon University (EOU) stands as one of seven state-funded four-year institutions in Oregon. The school’s origins go back to 1929 when the school opened as a teacher training school, Eastern Oregon Normal School. By 1939, the school became known as Eastern Oregon College of Education. In 1956, it became known as simply Eastern Oregon College, however, in 1973, Legislature changed the school’s name once again, this time to Eastern Oregon State College. It wasn’t until 1997 that the school became known by its current name. The East Oregon University acceptance rate is about 97% with about 35% of those students enrolling. Currently, Eastern Oregon University enrollment is more than 3,100 students.

Eastern Oregon University athletics are members of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and participate in the Cascade Collegiate Conference (CCC).
Eastern Oregon University mascot is Monty the Mountaineer and the sports teams are nicknamed the Mountaineers. Men’s sports at EOU are basketball, football, soccer, wrestling, cross country, and track & field. Women’s sports include basketball, softball, volleyball, soccer, wrestling, cross country, and track & field.

Whether on-campus or online, students at Eastern Oregon University can rest assured they are getting a quality education from an accredited school. Online offerings are regionally accredited and flexible to assist students in earning their degrees with ease at EOU. Whether students are just beginning or if they have previous experience with credits to transfer, EOU online is there to help students achieve their academic goals. Featured online programs are in Business, Business Administration, Fire Services Administration, Emergency Medical Services Administration, Integrative Studies, Bachelor of Applied Science, and Physical Activity and Health. There are many more programs to offer online with 15 different majors and 16 minors.

Eastern Oregon University Notable Alumni:

  • Betty Cantrell Roberts – American politician and judge
  • Cliff Bentz – Republican politician
  • Rod Chandler – U.S. Representative from the state of Washington
  • Fouad Ajami – Middle East expert and political advisor
  • Jace Billingsley – NFL football player, Detroit Lions
  • Tyronne Gross – former NFL football player, San Diego Chargers
  • Mike Kyle – wrestler & mixed martial artist
  • William De Los Santos – author, poet, screenwriter & director (enrolled as William Hilbert)

If you wish to learn more or would like to connect, please use the following links:

EOU’s Website – https://www.eou.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/eouadmissions

Twitter – https://twitter.com/eoumountaineers

15. Southern Oregon University

Southern Oregon University (SOU) can be found in Ashland, Oregon. The university was founded in 1926 and has formerly been known as Southern Oregon College (SOC) and Southern Oregon State College (SOSC). Southern Oregon University majors include Business, Economics, Criminology, Natural Sciences (which includes Environmental Science), Shakespearean Studies as well as Theatre Arts programs. The Southern Oregon University acceptance rate is 78% with around 31% of those students enrolling. Prospective students interested in finding out more about Southern Oregon University tuition & fees are encouraged to check their webpage for more information regarding costs.

Available sports at Southern Oregon University include football, men’s basketball, men’s soccer, men’s wrestling, softball, volleyball, women’s basketball, women’s soccer, women’s wrestling, cross country, and track & field. SOU competes in the Cascade Collegiate Conference (CCC) and is a part of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).The SOU mascot is Rocky the Raider and teams are referred to as the Raiders. Southern Oregon University athletics also includes the SOU Cheer Team, which is co-ed, as well as the SOU Raiderette Dance Team.

There are several Southern Oregon University online degree completion programs available for students who have had prior learning experience including many of the general education courses and prerequisites. Online bachelor’s degree programs at SOU include Business Administration with an emphasis in Management or Accounting, Concentration in Hospitality Management; Innovation & Leadership; Criminology & Criminal Justice; Bachelor of Applied Science in Management; and Early Childhood Development. Graduate degree programs at SOU include a Master in Education/Continuing Teaching License and a Master in Theatre Education with an emphasis in Production & Design. There are also several Endorsement or Licensure Programs for those individuals who have already earned a bachelor’s degree.

Southern Oregon University Notable Alumni:

  • Agnes Emma Baker Pilgrim – Native American spiritual elder & the oldest member of her tribe, the Takelma
  • Mark August Helfrich – former American football coach
  • Devin Cole – American mixed martial artist
  • Rick Thomas Story – American mixed martial artist
  • William Todd Field – American actor & 3-time Academy Award-nominated filmmaker
  • Tyler Gerald “Ty” Burrell – American actor & comedian
  • Joel David Moore – American character actor; director
  • Kim Rhodes – American actress
  • Harry ‘Doc’ Kloor – American scientist, film producer, director, writer, & businessman. Also, the first person to be awarded two PhDs simultaneously in two distinct academic disciplines (Physics and in Chemistry).

If you wish to learn more or would like to connect, please use the following links:

SOU’s Website – https://www.sou.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/SOUAshland/

Twitter – https://twitter.com/@souashland/

14. Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University is located in Monmouth, Oregon and was established in 1856 as Monmouth University. Altogether the school has changed names seven times throughout the years with some of the names including Oregon Normal School, Oregon College of Education, as well as Western Oregon State College. Today the school serves around 6,000 students. Prospective students interested in finding out more about Western Oregon University tuition and cost of attendance can find out more through the WOU website.

Western Oregon University athletics include a variety of varsity sports for students to participate in. Men’s sports include baseball, football, basketball, cross country, and track & field. Meanwhile, women’s sports offered include softball, basketball, soccer, volleyball, cross country, and track & field. The sports teams are called the Wolves or West Oregon Wolves and compete in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference, NCAA Division II.

When it comes to academics, Western Oregon University offers students a variety of majors to choose from. WOU also has hybrid and online programs. The BA/BS program in Criminal Justice is primarily on campus with core courses offered online as well as 3 online options for a minor and certificates. Graduate students are offered online options, such as an M.A. Criminal Justice, M.A. Interpreting Studies, M.A Teaching (Initial Licensure), M.S. in Ed Curriculum and Instruction, and an M.S. in Ed Information Technology. There are also endorsements and specializations for graduate students that include both online and on-campus programs, such as Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) Specialization (on-campus only), Elementary Mathematics Instructional Leader (EMIL) Specialization, ESOL Endorsement, Instructional Design Certificate (IDC), and Reading Endorsement.

Western Oregon University Notable Alumni:

  • Isaac Lee “Ike” Patterson – 18th Governor of Oregon
  • Marco Hernandez – First Latino to serve as U.S. district court judge in Oregon
  • Kevin Boss – NFL football player
  • Jason Slowey – NFL football player
  • Tyrell Williams – NFL football player
  • Dan Straily – MLB Pitcher
  • Sara Tucholsky – NCAA Softball
  • Ariana Richards – Actress
  • Jennifer Lyon – American actress
  • And more

If you wish to learn more or would like to connect, please use the following links:

WOU’s Website – https://www.wou.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/WOUnews

Twitter – https://twitter.com/wounews

13. Concordia University Portland

Located in Portland, Oregon, Concordia University Portland is a private, Christian liberal arts university. The school first opened in 1905 as Concordia Academy which was a University-preparatory school. Later, as college courses were introduced, the school split from the high school and became a 4-year institution with its first baccalaureate class graduating in 1980. In 1995 the school had changed its name from Concordia College to Concordia University and is part of the Concordia University System. The university offers 18 majors through its four colleges.

Concordia University athletics include a number of sports which compete in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC) and are a member of the NCAA Division II. The teams are known as the Cavaliers and the official school colors are navy and white. Men’s sports at Concordia University Portland include baseball, basketball, golf, soccer, cross country, and track & field. Women’s sports are softball, basketball, golf, soccer, volleyball, cross country, and track & field.

Concordia University Portland online students are provided with the same quality, Christian liberal arts education as those who take courses on-campus. The courses are there when and where it’s convenient for the student with no need to drive to a classroom or even login at a specific time, as long as any deadlines are met. The School of Management offers programs online for a Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security and a Master of Business Administration. The College of Education offers a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education, Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, Career and Technical Education, or Educational Leadership, as well as a Doctorate of Education. Also, a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration is offered through the College of Health and Human Services at Concordia University Portland online.

Concordia University Portland Notable Alumni:

  • Tootie Smith – American Republican politician
  • Donald Mark Benton – American Republican politician
  • Gregory Dallas Chaney – American Republican politician; member of Idaho House of Representatives
  • Dave Reichert – representative from Washington’s 8th congressional district & former King County sheriff
  • Paul Simon – late U.S. Senator from Illinois
  • Wendell Ramone Ellis Jr. or Jay Ellis – American actor

If you wish to learn more or would like to connect, please use the following links:

Concordia University Portland’s Website – https://www.cu-portland.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cu.portland

Twitter – https://twitter.com/cu_portland

12. Warner Pacific College

Portland, Oregon is home to Warner Pacific College, which was founded in 1937. The college is affiliated with the Church of God and is a private, Christian institution.The college has sought to expand its campus and currently serves more than 1300 students. The school offers an impressive 14:1 student to faculty ratio in order to ensure each student gains a personal educational experience at WP. Warner Pacific has been ranked 6th best among western regional colleges by U.S. News & World Report.

Warner Pacific athletic teams, which are known as the Knights, compete in the Cascade Collegiate Conference (CCC) and are a part of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). There are both men’s and women’s teams at Warner Pacific for soccer, basketball, golf, wrestling, cross country, and track & field. In addition, there is a women’s volleyball team.

Warner Pacific College not only excels in on-campus education, but they have added online degree programs for students who are unable to attend traditional classes. Currently, there is an Associate of Arts in Organizational Dynamics, Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Health Care Administration, and a Bachelor of Human Development available for undergraduates. Graduate students are offered online programs for a Master of Arts in Human Services and a Master of Science in Management & Organizational Leadership.

Warner Pacific College Notable Alumni:

  • Vic Gilliam – politician
  • Rod Monroe – Democratic politician
  • Kutless – Christian band
  • Mel White – clergyman, author

If you wish to learn more or would like to connect, please use the following links:

WP’s Website – https://www.warnerpacific.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/WarnerPacific

Twitter – https://twitter.com/WarnerPacific

11. Multnomah University

Multnomah University in Portland, Oregon has a history which dates back to the founding of Multnomah School of the Bible in 1936. Classes began in a former mortuary with only 49 students. The university now has more than 700 students and the Multnomah University acceptance rate is 70%. It was in 2008 that the name of the institution changed to become Multnomah University.

The athletics teams at Multnomah University are known as the Lions. There are both men’s and women’s teams for Multnomah University basketball, golf, cross country, and track & field. There is also a men’s soccer team and a women’s volleyball team. The Lions compete in the Cascade Collegiate Conference and are part of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).

Online education at Multnomah University has been developed to be both engaging and true to the Word. The online learning experience allows students to feel a sense of community and become a true member of the Multnomah family. Students can connect to each other and professors through discussions, email, chat, and video conferencing. Online bachelor’s degree programs available are in Applied Psychology, Bible and Theology, and Business Management. There is also a Master of Arts in Global Development and Justice available online. Seminary degrees offered online include Master of Arts in Biblical Studies, Christian Leadership, Theological Studies, and Divinity. Online students interested in the cost of Multnomah University tuition can check their tuition & aid page online.

Multnomah University Notable Alumni:

  • Duane Stark – American Republican politician
  • Doug Basler – American Republican politician
  • Luis Palau Jr. – international Christian evangelist
  • Randy Alcorn – American author
  • Dan Kimball – American author
  • Linda Chaikin – Christian fiction author
  • Bettie Page – American model
  • Ferdinand Waldo Demara Jr. – known as ‘The Great Impostor’; portrayed by Tony Curtis in a film of the same name

If you wish to learn more or would like to connect, please use the following links:

Multnomah University’s Website – https://www.multnomah.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/multnomah

Twitter – https://twitter.com/multnomahu

10. Portland State University

School Profile
Founded in 1946 and located in Portland, Oregon, Portland State University (PSU) is a public research university serving more than 28,000 students. The school is composed of seven constituent colleges and offers students one of the largest selections of fields of study in the state. Students interested in attending the university can check out the Portland State University tuition and fees page on their website to find out more about the costs.

Portland State University athletics have several teams for both male and female athletes to choose from. They are known as the Portland State Vikings and compete primarily in the Big Sky Conference, NCAA Division I. Men’s sports include football, basketball, tennis, cross country, and track & field. Women’s sports at PSU include softball, basketball, volleyball, tennis, soccer, golf, cross country, and track & field.

Overall more than 100 of each undergraduate and graduate areas of study are available for students. Undergraduates seeking online degrees at Portland State University can find several programs in areas of study such as Business degrees in Human Resources Management, Management and Leadership, and Supply and Logistics Management; Urban and Public Affairs and International Studies degrees; Criminology and Criminal Justice; and Interdisciplinary Studies programs in Arts and Letters, Liberal Studies, and Social Science.

Graduate students are offered master’s degree programs in Education, such as Curriculum and Instruction, Early Childhood: Inclusive Education and Curriculum & Instruction, Early Intervention Special Education, and Visually Impaired Learner. Business programs offered at the master’s level include Global Supply Chain Management, Healthcare MBA, and Taxation. There is also a program for a master’s degree in Social Work. There are also graduate programs for licensure or endorsement or certificates.

Portland State University Notable Alumni:

  • Barbara Roberts – 34th Governor of Oregon
  • Joseph LeBaron – former ambassador to the State of Qatar
  • Margaret Carter – politician
  • Charles Moose – police chief in charge of combating 2002 D.C. sniper attacks
  • DeShawn Shead – NFL player for Seattle Seahawks
  • Evan Jager – distance runner
  • Sho Dozono – entrepreneur
  • Travis Knight – animator; president & CEO of Laika
  • Holly Madison – model and writer
  • Esperanza Spalding – musician
  • Courtney Love – singer and musician
  • Nancy Wilson – singer and musician

If you wish to learn more or would like to connect, please use the following links:

PSU’s Website – https://www.pdx.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/portlandstateu

Twitter – https://twitter.com/Portland_State

9. Northwest Christian University

Eugene, Oregon is home to Northwest Christian University. The school was founded in 1895 as Eugene Divinity School by the Disciple of Christ preacher and educator Eugene Claremont Sanderson. Later in 1930, the name of the school changed to Eugene Bible College. The college merged with Spokane University in 1934 which is when it became known as Northwest Christian College. In 2008, the school changed its name to the current name. Northwest Christian University acceptance rate is around 67% with about 28% of those students enrolling. The university currently serves more than 750 students.

Northwest Christian University athletics teams are known as the Beacons and compete in the Cascade Collegiate Conference and are part of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). Men’s sports at NCU include basketball, golf, soccer, cross country, and track & field and women’s sports include basketball, softball, volleyball, golf, soccer, cross country, and track & field.

Northwest Christian University doesn’t take the term personal education lightly and has an average of about 12:1 student to faculty ratio. Whether on-campus or online, NCU ensures that students are getting a quality, Christian education with the support and dedication to excellence that they deserve. Currently, adult degree majors for online programs include Accounting, Business Administration, Teacher Education, Psychology, Psychology — Forensic Psychology, Interdisciplinary Studies and an RN to BSN program.

Northwest Christian University Notable Alumni:

  • David Ray Griffin – noted Process theologian; retired professor of theology at Claremont School of Theology
  • E. R. Moon – Christian missionary to the Belgian Congo (1908-1923) & Jamaica (1938-1944)
  • Dr. LeRoy Lawson, Ph.D. – senior Pastor of Central Christian Church (1979-1999) Mesa, AZ; President of Hope International University; author of 29 books
  • Frank Morse – president of Morse Brothers construction company; Oregon state senator (2003-2012)
  • Joe Wittwer, M.A. – lead Pastor at Life Center, Spokane since 1978

If you wish to learn more or would like to connect, please use the following links:

NCU’s Website – https://www.nwcu.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/NorthwestChristianUniversity

Twitter – https://twitter.com/NCUCommunity

8. Linfield College

Linfield College in McMinnville, Oregon was first established in 1858 and chartered under the name of The Baptist College at McMinnville. The school was also known as McMinnville College before acquiring its current name in 1922. The name of Linfield College was chosen in memory of the Baptist minister, Rev. George Fisher Linfield. His widow, Frances Eleanor Ross Linfield, gave a substantial donation to the school as both a memorial to her late husband and to promote Christian education.

Linfield College athletics teams participate in the NCAA Division III in the Northwest Conference. The teams are known as the Linfield Wildcats and offer student athletes a variety of sports to participate in. Men’s sports at Linfield include football, baseball, basketball, soccer, golf, tennis, swimming, cross country, and track & field. Women’s sports include softball, lacrosse, basketball, soccer, golf, tennis, volleyball, swimming, cross country, and track & field.

Regardless of whether students at Linfield College take courses online or in a traditional classroom, it is ensured that each student receives the tools needed for success as well as the support of the faculty and staff. Each student at Linfield has access to an admissions counselor and an academic adviser to answer any questions and offer any help and guidance they may need. Technical support is also available for any students who may require it. Currently, there are 8 degree programs, 17 certificate programs, and 5 minors available online with classes starting four times a year. Bachelor degrees are available in Accounting, Business Information Systems, International Business, Management, Project Management, Marketing, Global Studies, and RN to BSN.

Linfield College Notable Alumni:

  • George Henry Burnett – American attorney and judge in Oregon; the 21st Chief Justice on the Oregon Supreme Court serving twice as chief
  • Amy Tan – American author, “The Joy Luck Club” and more
  • Kenneth Scott Latourette – American historian of China, Japan, and world Christianity
  • Adolph “Ad” Rutschman – American football coach & former baseball coach, & college athletics administrator
  • Randy Mueller – American football executive
  • Scott Brosius – retired MLB player
  • Mark Few – American basketball coach

If you wish to learn more or would like to connect, please use the following links:

Linfield’s Website – https://www.linfield.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/LinfieldCollege/

Twitter – https://twitter.com/linfieldcollege

7. Corban University

Corban University makes its home in Salem, Oregon, although the school was first established in Phoenix Arizona in 1935. It was first known as Phoenix Bible Institute, then changed its name to Western Baptist Bible College when it moved to Oakland, California in 1946. In the mid 50’s the school moved again to El Cerrito, California before moving to Salem, Oregon in 1969. Corban University acceptance rate is currently around 35% and serves over 1,100 students at its Salem campus.

Corban University athletics include a variety of sports for both men and women and they compete in the Cascade Collegiate Conference as a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). Their teams are nicknamed the Warriors and sport the colors of navy and gold. Men’s sports are soccer, baseball, basketball, golf, swimming, cross country, and track & field. Women warriors teams include softball, basketball, volleyball, soccer, golf, cross country, and track & field.

Nationally recognized as a College of Distinction, Corban University offers students a distinguished education in an institution that strives to keep God at the center of all they do. The university has also been ranked as one of the Best Universities in the West by U.S. News & World Report While on campus, there are a large number of majors for undergraduates to choose from, currently, there are only two online programs for undergraduates. The programs offered online are in Business and Psychology. Students who are interested in attending who are curious about the costs can check out the Corban University tuition & fees page on their website or contact the school for more information.

Corban University Notable Alumni:

  • Elizabeth Halseth – Nevada Senator
  • Frank Prewitt – American attorney, government affairs consultant, and author
  • Sherrie Sprenger – member of Oregon House of Representatives
  • Steve Reese – American soccer player
  • Patrick Daka – a Zimbabwean footballer (soccer)

If you wish to learn more or would like to connect, please use the following links:

Corban’s Website – https://www.corban.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/CorbanUniversity

Twitter – https://twitter.com/CorbanU

6. Oregon Institute of Technology

Oregon Institute of Technology, commonly called Oregon Tech, is located in Klamath Falls, Oregon. The school was founded as the Oregon Vocational School in 1947 and the primary focus was to re-educate returning World War II veterans. It wasn’t until the following year that the school changed its name to the Oregon Technical Institute. In 1964 and 1973 respectively, the school moved to its current campus and changed names once again to become the Oregon Institute of Technology. Oregon Tech is part of the public university system, but is independent and governed by a Board of Trustees. Students interested in attending can check out the Oregon Institute of Technology tuition & fees page of their website for the most recent update of the costs associated with attending.

Oregon Tech athletics include men’s baseball, basketball, golf, soccer, cross country, and track & field. Sports for women include softball, basketball, volleyball, soccer, golf, cross country, and track & field. The school mascot is Hootie the Owl and the teams are referred to as the Owls.The school competes in the Cascade Collegiate Conference and is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).

There are more than 30 Oregon Institute of Technology majors to choose from for students and there are multiple locations for on-campus courses as well as online options. Online undergraduate degree programs include associate’s degrees in Clinical Sleep Health or Polysomnography. Online bachelor’s degree programs are offered in Applied Psychology, Health Informatics, Information Technology, Operations Management (OM), and Technology & Management. Students who have had some previous educational experience may qualify for an online degree completion program which are offered in Dental Hygiene, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Echocardiography, Health Care Management, Radiologic Science, Respiratory Care, and Vascular Technology. Online master’s degree programs are offered in Allied Health and in Engineering. There are also some specialization and certificate programs available from Oregon Tech online.

Oregon Institute of Technology Notable Alumni:

  • Tim Freeman -United States Republican Politician
  • Wayne Krieger – Republican politician & retired game warden
  • Jeffrey C. Dalin – Politician
  • Joe Cain – Football player
  • Ty Knott – former assistant coach in the NFL & current football consultant
  • Nathaniel “Nate” Lewis – former pro wide receiver in the NFL

If you wish to learn more or would like to connect, please use the following links:

Oregon Tech’s Website – https://www.oit.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/OregonTech

Twitter – https://twitter.com/OregonTech

5. George Fox University

Newberg, Oregon is home to George Fox University. The school was founded by Quaker pioneers in 1885 and was originally Friends Pacific Academy prior to becoming Pacific College in 1891. It wasn’t until 1949 that the name was changed to George Fox College in order to honor the founder of the Quaker movement. The college merged with Western Evangelical Seminary in 1996 and the institution became known as George Fox University. George Fox University acceptance rate is around 64% with about half of those students completing the enrollment at the university. All in all, George Fox serves around 4,000 students.

George Fox University athletics department has a number of teams which compete in the Northwest Conference in the NCAA Division III. The school mascot is the Bruin, whose name comes from a real bear cub which was found nearby after its mother was shot and was brought back to campus in 1887. Men’s sports offered include baseball, basketball, football, golf, soccer, swimming, tennis, cross country, and track & field. Lady Bruins options are basketball, softball, volleyball, golf, lacrosse, soccer, tennis, swimming, cross country, and track & field.

When it comes to academics, George Fox University has a commitment to providing a quality Christian education which leaves students empowered spiritually, academically, as well as professionally. Fortunately, there are online options available for working students with busy lives who may not be able to find the proper time to attend classes on-campus. There is a Management and Organizational Leadership online degree program which is offered in an accelerated format. There is one face-to-face weekend intensive which allows students to meet each other and the professor is able to begin their first class in-person. There are also several education programs which are offered in an online format but do include some face-to-face sessions. These include the Doctor of Education, Master of Arts in Teaching, School Administrator and Teaching Endorsement programs. There is also a Master of Education which has recently become offered in an online-only format which does not have any on-campus requirement. The Doctor of Business Administration program includes both online and hybrid courses with two on-site sessions each year in Portland. Several seminary programs which are offered online or with an online component. Also, select courses for undergraduates are offered online during summer sessions.

George Fox University Notable Alumni:

  • Pat Casey – head baseball coach of the Oregon State Beavers
  • Herbert Hoover – 31st President of the United States (attended prior to Stanford)
  • John Davis – member of Oregon House of Representatives
  • Bill Post – member of Oregon House of Representatives
  • Andy Olson – member of Oregon House of Representatives
  • Cherie Buckner-Webb – member of Idaho Senate
  • John Lim – former Oregon politician and businessman
  • Darleen Ortega – judge, Oregon Court of Appeals
  • Robert F. Burt – American Navy officer, served as the 24th Chief of Chaplains of the United States Navy (2006 – 2010)
  • Richard Foster – author of Celebration of Discipline
  • Peggy Fowler – retired CEO of Portland General Electric
  • Rick Johnson – writer, author, and speaker
  • Gina Ochsner – American writer
  • Rolf Potts – travel writer
  • Daniel L. Smith-Christopher – theologian and author
  • Dan Kimball – pastor and author involved in the Emerging church movement
  • Robert L. Saucy – biblical scholar and professor of systematic theology

If you wish to learn more or would like to connect, please use the following links:

George Fox University’s Website – https://www.georgefox.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/georgefoxuniversity

Twitter – https://twitter.com/georgefox

4. Pacific University

Pacific University was founded in 1849 under the name Tualatin Academy. The school is based in Forest Grove, Oregon and has three other campuses in Eugene, Hillsboro, and Woodburn. Pacific University was founded by the United Church of Christ, and although now independent of UCC, it does maintain a close working relationship with them and is a member of the United Church of Christ Council for Higher Education. The university has the Latin motto “Pro Christo et Regno Ejus” (For Christ and His Kingdom). Today, Pacific University acceptance rate is about 79% of those who apply with 19% of those students completing enrollment. The university serves around 3,500 students.

Pacific University athletics include a number of sports for both men and women. The university competes in the NCAA Division III as a member of the Northwest Conference and they are nicknamed the Boxers. The mascot is Boxer, which is a 60-pound bronze statue that is a part-dog, part-dragon idol regarded as good luck. Men’s teams include baseball, basketball, football, tennis, golf, soccer, swimming, wrestling, cross country, and track & field. Women’s teams include softball, basketball, volleyball, tennis, soccer, lacrosse, golf, swimming, wrestling, rowing, cross country, and track & field. Club sports at Pacific include cheerleading, dance team, handball, and rugby.

Pacific University offers students excellent educational opportunities and has designed their degree-completion program for a Bachelor of Health Science with adult students juggling busy schedules in mind. The coursework is delivered online and features live, weekly interactive sessions with the instructor and cohorts are small and select. There are 2-day residencies required in the program but is otherwise completely online. Pacific University also offers a Gerontology Graduate Certificate Program & ESOL Endorsement Online. There are also other online as well as hybrid courses for students interested in partially online education with some physical classroom participation.

Pacific University Notable Alumni

  • Harvey W. Scott – the first graduate of Pacific in 1863 & editor of The Oregonian
  • William A. Hilliard – editor of The Oregonian
  • Shirley Abbott – American businessman, rancher, politician, and ambassador
  • Les AuCoin – was Oregon’s U.S. Representative from the First Congressional District (1975-1992)
  • Rick Dancer – Journalist and politician
  • Mike Kreidler – American politician
  • Thomas H. Tongue – U.S. Representative for Oregon’s First Congressional District
  • William A. Barton – noted Oregon personal injury attorney and author
  • Calvin Leroy Van Pelt – World War II veteran
  • Chuck Currie – minister
  • Alfred Carlton Gilbert – (Tualatin Academy) Olympian and inventor of the Erector Set
  • Tim Hauck – former NFL player
  • Dick Daniels – former NFL player and executive
  • Tela O’Donnell – retired amateur freestyle wrestler and Olympian
  • Lynn Hellerstein – optometrist, speaker and author best known for her work in the field of vision therapy
  • Augustus C. Kinney, longtime physician in Astoria, Oregon, and noted expert on tuberculosis at the turn of the 20th century
  • Carol Pott – author and editor
  • David G. Hebert – musicologist, musician, & professor
  • Nancy Wilson (non-degree) – lead guitarist & vocalist of the classic rock group Heart

If you wish to learn more or would like to connect, please use the following links:

Pacific University’s Website – https://www.pacificu.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pacificu

Twitter – https://twitter.com/pacificu

3. Oregon State University

Oregon State University (OSU), located in Corvallis, Oregon, has roots dating back to 1856 when the school was established as Corvallis Academy. Over the years, as the school grew, it changed names a number of times until it officially became Oregon State University in 1961. The university is a land-grant, sea-grant, sun-grant, and space-grant facility, making it one of only 3 United States universities with these designations, and only two of these are public institutions. OSU serves more than 30,000 students and offers an abundant choice of majors. Students who are interested in attending can check the Oregon State University tuition and fee information page of their website to find out more about the cost to attend.

Oregon State University athletics date back to 1893 when the mascot was “Jimmie the Coyote”. Fortunately for Beaver fans, it changed in 1910 and the beloved costumed mascot of “Benny the Beaver” made his debut appearance in 1952. OSU became one of the 4 charter members of the Pacific Coast Conference in 1915. The school now competes in NCAA Division I Pacific-12 (Pac-12) Conference. Oregon State University football participates in that tradition known as the “Civil War” where they face off with their rivals at UO for the final scheduled game of the regular season. Men’s sports available at OSU include football, baseball, basketball, golf, soccer, rowing, and wrestling. Meanwhile, women’s sports include basketball, softball, soccer, golf, rowing, gymnastics, swimming, volleyball, cross country, and track & field.

When it comes to online learning, Oregon State Ecampus has one of the largest varieties of both graduate and undergraduate programs available in the state. For 3 consecutive years, the online bachelor’s programs offered by Oregon State Ecampus have ranked top 10 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. Undergraduate programs offered include Anthropology (B.A./B.S.), Business Administration (B.A./B.S.), Computer Science (B.S./post-bacc), Economics (B.A./B.S.), Environmental Sciences (B.S.), History (B.A./B.S.), Horticulture (B.S.), Liberal Studies (B.A./B.S.), Political Science (B.A./B.S.), Psychology (B.A./B.S.), Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies (B.A./B.S.), and more.

Oregon State Ecampus has more than 25 programs for graduate students attending online. These include but are not limited to Adult and Higher Education (Ed.M.) & (Ed.D./Ph.D.); Data Analytics (M.S); Engineering Management (M. Eng); Environmental Sciences (P.S.M.); K-12 Education (Ed.M.); MBA in 4 concentrations – Business Analytics, Innovation Management, Organizational Leadership, or Supply Chain and Logistics Management; Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.); Master of Counseling (M.Coun.): Clinical Mental Health or School Counseling; Counseling (Ph.D.); Master of Natural Resources (M.N.R.); Radiation Health Physics (M.H.P.); ESOL/Bilingual (Endorsement) and many others. There are also programs for graduate certificates in many areas of study.
Oregon State University Notable Alumni:

  • Trevor Bardette – actor
  • Sara Jean Underwood – model, actress
  • Mike Rich – screenwriter
  • Geffrey Davis – poet
  • Cathy Marshall – news anchor
  • Greg Nibler – radio host
  • George Oppen – Pulitzer Prize winner
  • Travis Rush – Country music singer
  • Lee Arden Thomas – architect who designed the OSU Memorial Union.
  • Thomas J. Autzen – plywood manufacturing pioneer and namesake of the University of Oregon’s Autzen Stadium
  • Mercedes Alison Bates – the first female officer of General Mills and former vice-president of its Betty Crocker Cooking division
  • Timothy S. Leatherman – inventor of the Leatherman tool and founder of the Leatherman Tool Group; and Don Robert, CEO of Experian.
  • Leonard Shoen – founder of U-Haul
  • Jen-Hsun Huang – co-founder and CEO of NVIDIA
  • John A. Young – former president and CEO of Hewlett-Packard
  • Edward Allworth – Medal of Honor recipient
  • Marion Eugene Carl – World War II flying ace and USMC Major General
  • John Noble Holcomb – Medal of Honor recipient
  • Cecil D. Andrus – former Governor of Idaho and United States Secretary of the Interior
  • Douglas McKay – former Governor of Oregon and U.S. Secretary of the Interior
  • John Hubert Hall – former Governor of Oregon
  • John Ensign – former U.S. Senator
  • Julia Butler Hansen – former U.S. Representative
  • Jolene Unsoeld – former U.S. Representative
  • Douglas Engelbart – computer mouse inventor, also credited with developing the concept of e-mail
  • Paul H. Emmett – staff of the Manhattan Project
  • Linus Pauling – chemist and only winner of 2 unshared Nobel prizes
  • 15+ MLB players
  • 20+ NBA players including Gary Payton, Brandin Cooks, and Markus Wheaton
  • 130+ NFL players including Steven Jackson
  • Dick Fosbury – Olympian high jumper
  • Terry Baker – Quarterback, Heisman Trophy winner in 1962
  • Nathan Coy – MMA fighter & former Maximum Fighting Championship Welterweight Champion
  • Les Gutches – Freestyle Wrestling World Champion
  • Robin Reed – undefeated amateur wrestler
  • Stacy Allison – First American woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest
  • William Oefelein – NASA astronaut
  • Donald Pettit – NASA astronaut

If you wish to learn more or would like to connect, please use the following links:

OSU’s Website – https://oregonstate.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/osubeavers

Twitter – https://twitter.com/oregonstate

2. Lewis & Clark College

The private liberal arts college, Lewis & Clark College can be found in the state’s largest city of Portland. The school was originally chartered in 1867 as Albany Collegiate Institute, making it older than the state of Oregon itself. The college moved to Portland in 1938 and it changed its name to Lewis & Clark College in 1942, named after the famous explorers of the Western Frontier. Today the campus is more than 137 acres and it’s three schools serve more than 3,000 students.

Lewis & Clark College athletics include a wide number of sports and they participate in the All-Northwest Conference and compete in NCAA Division III. Their teams are known as the Pioneers and sport the school colors of orange and black. Men’s sports include football, basketball, baseball, rowing, golf, swimming, tennis, cross country, and track & field. There are women’s teams in basketball, softball, volleyball, golf, tennis, soccer, swimming, rowing, cross country, and track & field.

While most students attend on-campus classes at Lewis & Clark College, the school also recognizes the growing popularity of online courses and programs. Currently, there are only a few courses which are offered online, which include courses for Continuing Education’s ESOL Endorsement program designed for graduate students who have already acquired their teaching license. There are a few other courses offered online and credit-bearing courses are in development in other areas, including the law school. Students interested in Lewis & Clark College tuition & fees are able to check out their website for more information on costs.

Lewis & Clark College notable alumni:

  • Kate Brown – Governor of Oregon
  • Earl Blumenauer – U.S. Representative
  • Monica Lewinsky – former White House Intern under President Bill Clinton, fashion designer, and pop culture celebrity
  • Genevieve Gorder – American television host
  • Markie Post – American actress
  • Ever Carradine – American actress
  • Pete Ward – Former professional baseball player
  • Major General Jeanne Marjorie Holm – first female one-star general of the U. S. Air Force & first female two-star general in any service branch of the U.S.

If you wish to learn more or would like to connect, please use the following links:

Lewis & Clark’s Website – https://www.lclark.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/lewisandclarkcollege

Twitter – https://twitter.com/lewisandclark

1. University of Oregon

The University of Oregon flagship campus is located in Eugene, Oregon. The school was established by Oregon State Legislature in 1872, however, the school did not officially open until 1876 and it is a public flagship research university with a Carnegie Classification of “highest research activity”. The university is divided into 5 colleges and 7 professional schools in order to offer students a wide variety of over 300 undergraduate and graduate programs. Currently, the school serves almost 23,000 students.

The university’s mascot is The Oregon Duck and their athletic teams are nicknamed The Ducks. University of Oregon is a member of the Pac-12 Conference and the Division I Football Bowl Subdivision of the NCAA. The University of Oregon football team’s main rivals are the Washington Huskies and the Oregon State Beavers. The final football game of the regular season is against The Beavers and the fierce rivalry is known as “Civil War” and is an annual tradition since 1894 with only five exceptions. Altogether the Oregon Ducks have garnered 28 NCAA team championships and 60 individual championships in Track & Field. The school and athletics department has strong ties to Nike and combined with the strength of the track team, Eugene, Oregon has been dubbed Track Town, USA.

The University of Oregon takes great pride in its educational values and as a research university and the hands-on experience for students can be amazing and rewarding. The university recognizes the fact that some students lead incredibly busy lives but still want to earn their next degree. Distance education has been available at UO since 1996 and has continued to grow in popularity. Currently, there are around 70 individual courses available online, and the number is subject to change each semester. Although currently there are no fully online undergraduate degrees available, there is, however, an M.S. in Applied Information Management offered online. Students interested in attending can check out the University of Oregon Tuition & Fees page on their website for more information.

University of Oregon notable alumni:

  • Ron Wyden – U.S. Senator
  • Ken Kesey – One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest author
  • Chuck Palahniuk – Fight Club author
  • Kaitlin Olson – actress
  • Ann Curry – former NBC journalist and host
  • Peter Hollens – a capella singer and musician
  • Phil Knight – Nike founder
  • Marcus Mariota – Heisman Trophy winner
  • Luke Ridnour – professional basketball player
  • Luke Jackson – professional basketball player
  • Ahmad Rashād – former professional football player and sportscaster
  • Dan Fouts – former American football quarterback and current sportscaster

If you wish to learn more or would like to connect, please use the following links:

UO’s Website – https://uoregon.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/universityoforegon

Twitter – https://twitter.com/uoregon

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