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Oregon's religious institutions create significant demand for ministry graduates, particularly in Portland's faith-based nonprofits and retreat centers throughout the Cascade region. Bushnell University leads affordability at $23,520 net cost, while the state's five theological programs span a $12,851 price gap. Graduation rates vary dramatically from 50.80% to 80.40%, reflecting different institutional approaches to ministerial preparation. Students can expect post-graduation earnings around $25,774 annually, often supplemented by housing allowances common in pastoral positions.
5
Programs
$23,520 – $36,371
Net Price Range
$25,774
Avg. Program Earnings
64.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

5 Theological and Ministerial Studies Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $23,520 $34,740 61.8% 66.9%
2 $23,866 $30,310 50.8% 53.4%
3 $25,525 $37,208 61.0% 34.8%
4 $29,981 $40,940 68.7% 91.7%
5 $36,371 $54,900 80.4% 92.5%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the wide graduation rate gap between Oregon's theological schools?

Graduation rates range from Multnomah University's 50.80% to University of Portland's 80.40%, reflecting different student populations and program structures. Schools with higher acceptance rates like George Fox (91.73%) often serve broader student demographics, while more selective programs like Corban (34.77% acceptance) maintain tighter cohort models.

How do private theological schools in Oregon compare in actual costs?

Despite sticker prices reaching $54,900 at University of Portland, generous aid brings net costs down significantly. The $12,851 gap between cheapest (Bushnell at $23,520) and most expensive (University of Portland at $36,371) reflects varying endowment sizes and aid strategies among Oregon's private religious institutions.

Does Oregon's religious market support ministry career opportunities?

Oregon's 2,100+ congregations and numerous faith-based nonprofits create steady demand for ministry graduates. Portland alone hosts major denominational offices and retreat centers, while rural communities throughout the state actively seek pastoral leadership.

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