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Linfield University graduates command the highest median earnings among Oregon's Division III colleges at $78,638, despite accepting 88.69% of applicants. This reflects the strong connection between Oregon's private colleges and the state's major employers like Intel and Nike, which actively recruit liberal arts graduates for management and innovation roles. Willamette University offers the lowest net price at $23,663 while maintaining the highest graduation rate of 72.7%. Lewis & Clark College stands apart as the most selective, accepting just 68.59% of applicants and charging $36,084 annually. These five institutions serve 9,395 students across Oregon's Willamette Valley, with graduation rates ranging from 64.8% to 72.7%. Oregon's tech sector growth has increased demand for the critical thinking and communication skills these colleges emphasize. Students benefit from the Oregon Opportunity Grant, which can reduce costs further at eligible institutions. The Portland metropolitan area's expanding healthcare and technology industries provide strong internship and career opportunities for graduates.
5
Schools
$30,484
Avg. Net Price
$63,620
Avg. Earnings
68.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

NCAA Division III Colleges in Oregon

College listings
# School Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 1,642 $27,341 65.2% 88.7%
2 1,525 $23,663 72.7% 80.6%
3 2,505 $29,981 68.7% 91.7%
4 2,167 $36,084 71.2% 68.6%
5 1,556 $35,350 64.8% 92.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Linfield University graduates earn $78,638 compared to other Oregon Division III schools?

Linfield's strong business and nursing programs align with Oregon's healthcare sector and corporate needs at companies like Nike. The university's 1,642 students benefit from small class sizes and internship partnerships with Portland-area employers, leading to higher starting salaries despite the school's 88.69% acceptance rate.

How does Lewis & Clark College justify its $36,084 net price as the most expensive option?

Lewis & Clark maintains the lowest acceptance rate at 68.59% and offers extensive research opportunities typically found at larger universities. The Portland location provides access to internships in Oregon's growing tech sector, with graduates earning $62,205 annually from this 2,167-student institution.

Is Willamette University's $23,663 net price sustainable given its 72.7% graduation rate?

Willamette leverages its Salem location and state government connections to keep costs low while maintaining quality. The 1,525-student university receives significant alumni support and benefits from Oregon's commitment to higher education accessibility, resulting in the highest graduation rate among these five schools.

Does George Fox University's 91.73% acceptance rate indicate lower academic standards?

George Fox's high acceptance rate reflects its mission-driven approach rather than academic quality. The 2,505-student Christian university maintains a 68.7% graduation rate and produces graduates earning $59,761 annually, demonstrating strong outcomes despite broad accessibility from its Newberg campus.

Where do Pacific University's 1,556 students find career opportunities after graduation?

Pacific University's Forest Grove location provides access to both Portland's job market and Oregon's growing healthcare sector. Graduates earn $60,583 annually, with many finding positions in the state's expanding optometry, pharmacy, and healthcare fields where Pacific has established strong professional programs.

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.