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Best Value Political Science and Government Colleges in Oregon

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

Portland State University delivers the state's most affordable Political Science and Government education at just $12,932 net cost, while graduates from Pacific University command the highest starting salaries at $37,208. This $26,000 price gap between programs reflects Oregon's mix of accessible public options and selective private colleges. The state's 15 programs show acceptance rates ranging from Reed College's selective 30.80% to Eastern Oregon University's open 98.52%. Oregon's political science graduates find opportunities in the state's growing tech sector, with companies like Intel and Nike requiring government relations expertise, plus Portland's role as a regional policy center creates demand for public administration professionals.
15
Programs
$12,932 – $39,951
Net Price Range
$32,581
Avg. Program Earnings
62.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

15 Political Science and Government Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $12,932 $29,202 $11,238 53.1% 93.1%
2 $17,722 $31,133 $12,594 51.2% 79.0%
3 $21,782 $35,274 $15,669 71.5% 86.3%
4 $19,568 $31,133 $13,494 70.6% 82.5%
5 $23,663 $36,848 $48,268 72.7% 80.6%
6 $35,350 $37,208 $54,466 64.8% 92.3%
7 $36,084 $36,848 $62,350 71.2% 68.6%
8 $36,371 $22,999 $54,900 80.4% 92.5%
9 $15,987 $10,671 36.6% 98.5%
10 $29,981 $40,940 68.7% 91.7%
11 $27,341 $49,530 65.2% 88.7%
12 $39,951 $67,020 75.9% 30.8%
13 $16,470 $12,093 44.2% 88.0%
14 $25,525 $37,208 61.0% 34.8%
15 $18,290 $11,025 44.8% 83.4%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Portland State University the best value for Political Science in Oregon?

Portland State offers the lowest net cost at $12,932 while maintaining a 53.10% graduation rate and producing graduates earning $29,202 annually. The university's 93.09% acceptance rate makes it accessible to most students. Located in Oregon's largest city, students gain access to state government internships and private sector opportunities that justify the strong return on investment.

How do private college costs compare to public options for Political Science majors?

Private colleges in Oregon cost significantly more, with Reed College reaching $39,951 net cost compared to Portland State's $12,932. However, Pacific University graduates earn $37,208, which is $8,006 more than Portland State graduates. Willamette University offers a middle ground at $23,663 net cost with graduates earning $36,848, nearly matching the highest-earning programs in the state.

Is University of Oregon worth the higher cost than other public options?

University of Oregon charges $21,782 net cost, about $9,000 more than Portland State, but delivers a 71.50% graduation rate compared to Portland State's 53.10%. Graduates earn $35,274, which is $6,072 more annually than Portland State graduates. The higher graduation rate and earning potential can justify the increased investment for many students.

Does Reed College justify its high cost for Political Science students?

Reed College costs $39,951 annually, making it the most expensive option, but lacks available earnings data for comparison. The college maintains a 75.90% graduation rate, the highest among Oregon programs, and accepts only 30.80% of applicants. Students should weigh the academic reputation and small class sizes against the significant financial investment without clear salary outcomes.

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