Skip to main content

Best Value Fine and Studio Arts Colleges in Oregon

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Reed College stands apart in Oregon's fine arts market with graduates earning $28,598 annually despite the program's $39,951 net cost. The state's 14 fine arts programs span a dramatic price range from Portland State's $12,932 to Pacific Northwest College of Art's $40,846, yet most graduates earn between $16,874 and $25,194. Oregon's creative economy benefits from Nike's design headquarters in Beaverton and Portland's growing film production industry, creating opportunities for fine arts graduates beyond traditional gallery spaces. Public universities like University of Oregon deliver strong value with 71.5% graduation rates at $21,782 net cost.
14
Programs
$12,932 – $40,846
Net Price Range
$22,550
Avg. Program Earnings
59.7%
Avg. Graduation Rate

14 Fine and Studio Arts Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $12,932 $24,376 $11,238 53.1% 93.1%
2 $21,782 $25,194 $15,669 71.5% 86.3%
3 $16,470 $16,874 $12,093 44.2% 88.0%
4 $23,663 $20,140 $48,268 72.7% 80.6%
5 $29,981 $25,194 $40,940 68.7% 91.7%
6 $27,341 $21,508 $49,530 65.2% 88.7%
7 $39,951 $28,598 $67,020 75.9% 30.8%
8 $36,084 $21,234 $62,350 71.2% 68.6%
9 $40,846 $19,835 $47,126 45.7% 94.5%
10 $15,987 $10,671 36.6% 98.5%
11 $19,568 $13,494 70.6% 82.5%
12 $35,350 $54,466 64.8% 92.3%
13 $18,290 $11,025 44.8% 83.4%
14 $17,722 $12,594 51.2% 79.0%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the wide gap between public and private fine arts program costs in Oregon?

Public programs like Portland State ($12,932 net cost) and Southern Oregon University ($16,470) offer significant savings over private options. Reed College commands $39,951 while Pacific Northwest College of Art reaches $40,846, creating a $28,000 difference between the most affordable public and expensive private programs.

How do graduation rates compare between affordable and expensive fine arts programs?

Reed College justifies its high cost with a 75.9% graduation rate, the highest among Oregon fine arts programs. However, University of Oregon achieves a competitive 71.5% graduation rate at roughly half the net cost. Southern Oregon University's 44.2% rate reflects the challenge some students face completing degrees.

Is Portland State University's 93% acceptance rate typical for Oregon fine arts programs?

Most Oregon fine arts programs maintain high acceptance rates, with 10 of 14 schools accepting over 80% of applicants. Reed College creates the notable exception at just 30.8% acceptance, while Pacific Northwest College of Art accepts 94.5% despite being the most expensive option.

Does attending a specialized art school like Pacific Northwest College of Art improve earnings?

Pacific Northwest College of Art graduates earn $19,835 annually, below the state average for fine arts majors. University of Oregon and George Fox University graduates both earn $25,194, suggesting full universities can provide equal or better financial outcomes at lower costs.

More Fine and Studio Arts Rankings

Cheapest Fine and Studio Arts in Oregon Fine and Studio Arts Under $20,000 in Oregon

Related

All Fine and Studio Arts Programs Best Colleges in Oregon Best Fine and Studio Arts in Oregon

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.