Top 6 Cheapest Colleges in Oregon (2025)

In 2024, Oregon continues to be an attractive destination for students seeking affordable higher education. This guide highlights the top cheapest colleges in Oregon, offering a blend of low tuition costs and quality education.

These institutions are not only affordable but also provide diverse programs and opportunities for students, offering various undergraduate and graduate programs, and catering to a wide range of interests and career goals.

Affordable education in Oregon opens doors for students from all backgrounds. These institutions are committed to providing financial aid and scholarship options, making higher education more accessible.

List of Cheap Colleges in Oregon

This list provides an overview of the cheapest colleges in Oregon, each with its own unique offerings and strengths.

Whether students are interested in liberal arts, science, technology, or vocational studies, these colleges provide cost-effective options to pursue their educational aspirations.

1. Oregon State University

Oregon State University stands out with its extensive range of affordable online bachelor's degree programs, tailored to meet the diverse personal and career aspirations of students.

The university offers degrees in various fields including computer science, business administration, and economics. Students can choose between a BS or a BA degree, depending on their area of interest.

Tuition costs vary across programs, ranging from $375 per credit for business degrees to $409 per credit hour in some engineering disciplines.

2. Oregon Institute of Technology

Oregon Institute of Technology provides a list of budget-friendly online bachelor's degree programs.

These programs cover fields such as psychology, health care management, and information technology, equipping students with essential skills and knowledge for career success.

A one-time matriculation fee of $50 is charged in the first term. The tuition is set at $308 per credit hour regardless of the student's location. Additionally, there is a $65 technology fee per course on top of the tuition.

3. Southern Oregon University

Southern Oregon University offers a variety of online bachelor's degree programs at an economical rate. The programs available include options like business, early childhood development, and criminal justice.

Similar to other institutions, students can opt for either a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts degree.

The tuition fee is $215 per credit hour for resident students, while non-resident students pay $323 per credit hour. It's important to note that there is a $75 online delivery fee, added to the tuition cost.

4. Eastern Oregon University

Eastern Oregon University offers over 30 affordable online Bachelor's degree programs, accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

These programs span various fields, including business administration, fire services administration, and interdisciplinary studies. The tuition for 180-credit programs totals $51,552, excluding additional fees and textbooks.

The university also provides various financial aid options, such as the PTK Scholarship, University Achievement Award, and Scholar Athlete Award, to support students financially.

5. Portland State University

Portland State University presents a variety of affordable online Bachelor's degree programs, accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

These programs enable students to pursue careers in fields like arts, human resources, and public health. The average tuition at PSU is $11,859 for Oregon residents and $32,019 for non-resident students.

PSU offers several financial aid options, including scholarships, loans, and work-study programs, to assist students in managing or covering the costs of their educational program.

6. George Fox University

George Fox University offers affordable online bachelor's completion degree programs, designed for adult learners with some college credits, seeking to finish their degrees.

These programs, including cybersecurity management, healthcare administration, and project management, typically take 16 to 20 months to complete, with a cohort size capped at 18 students.

The tuition is set at $499 per credit hour regardless of the student's location. Additionally, most textbooks can be accessed for free.

Other Universities Offering Affordable Online Bachelor's Degrees.

In addition to the cheapest colleges in Oregon, students can also attend universities across the country that offer affordable degrees that can be completed from any location.

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University provides an extensive list of affordable online Bachelor's degree programs accessible to students nationwide.

Among the diverse program options, notable fields include anthropology, community health education, and criminal justice. As a non-profit institution, SNHU maintains a low tuition cost of $330 per credit hour for all undergraduate programs.

Additionally, military members benefit from a reduced tuition rate of $231. SNHU enables students to transfer previous credit hours at no extra charge.

Liberty University

Liberty University offers affordable online bachelor's degree programs, catering to a range of interests including education, engineering, and behavioral sciences.

The university's pricing structure is unique, with tuition costs varying based on course load. Part-time students pay $455 per credit hour, while full-time students benefit from a reduced rate of $390 per credit hour.

This pricing applies equally to both resident and non-resident students, making Liberty University a financially accessible option for diverse student populations.

University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida presents a selection of affordable online Bachelor's degree programs, accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

These programs cover various disciplines such as criminal justice, nursing, and public administration.

Tuition costs are determined by residency status, Florida residents pay $179.19 per credit hour, while out-of-state students are charged $715.80 per credit hour. To offset these costs, UCF offers financial aid options, including scholarships.

Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University offers many online bachelor's degree and completion programs, designed for students seeking affordable education.

The university's diverse program offerings include fields like accounting, cybersecurity, and marketing.

Tuition rates vary, with Virginia residents paying $393 per credit hour and out-of-state students $426 per credit hour. Active military members are eligible for a special rate of $250 per credit hour.

It's important to note that additional fees apply, including a $30 technology fee per credit hour and a $13 per semester charge for general and ID services.

How Much Will a College Degree Cost?

The total cost varies depending on whether the institution is public or private, the location, the program's length, and the field of study.

With credit hour costs varying between $215 to $700 or more, a 120-credit degree may vary between $25,800 and $84,000 or more.

Public universities usually charge lower tuition for in-state students, while private colleges often have higher rates but may offer more financial aid.

Costs include not just tuition, but also books, room and board, and other personal expenses.

How To Make College Affordable

Making college affordable requires a combination of careful planning, research, and taking advantage of available financial resources.

Scholarships and Grants

Seek scholarships from schools, private organizations, and government programs. Unlike loans, these don't need to be repaid.

Federal Financial Aid

Complete the FAFSA to access various types of federal aid, including loans, grants, and work-study opportunities.

Community Colleges and Public Universities

Consider enrolling in community colleges or public universities in your state for lower tuition rates.

Part-Time Work and Work-Study Programs

Work part-time or join work-study programs to earn money while studying, helping to offset education costs.

Online Courses or Community College

Take general education courses online or at a community college to reduce costs in the initial years of college.

Do Cheap Colleges in Oregon Offer High-Quality Education?

Yes, affordable colleges in Oregon do offer high-quality education.

These institutions are recognized for balancing cost-effective tuition fees with robust educational offerings, ensuring that students receive a valuable and complete educational experience without the weight of excessive financial pressure.

In-State Vs. Out-of-State Tuition Rates

In-state tuition is the rate charged to students who are residents of the state where the college is located.

These rates are typically lower because state colleges and universities are partially funded by state taxes, and the reduced tuition is a benefit offered to state residents.

Out-of-state tuition, on the other hand, is charged to students who come from a different state. These rates are usually higher, as out-of-state students do not contribute to the state tax base that subsidizes the cost of these institutions

Find an Affordable College in Oregon Today

Obtaining a degree from the cheapest colleges in Oregon is within reach. With a diverse range of cost-effective options offering quality education, you can find a school that aligns with your academic and financial goals today.