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Key Takeaways
Best computer programming degree programs: Oregon State, Lewis & Clark College, Portland State
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $4,032 to $61,916/year
Portland Community College offers the most affordable option at $4,608/yr
Computer Programming degree programs available: 6 associate's, 2 master's, 2 doctoral in Oregon
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
2 online computer programming degree programs in Oregon
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Oregon community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
6 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: Intel, Nike, Salesforce, Autodesk
Tech hubs in Portland and Beaverton
Hakia Research 2026
Computer Programming degree programs near 33+ cities across Oregon
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated July 13, 2026
How we ranked Oregon Computer Programming programs
We rank 17 accredited computer programming programs in Oregon using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Are Computer Programming Degree Programs in Oregon Worth It?
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Programming Degree Rankings in Oregon
Compare the top-ranked Computer Programming programs in Oregon by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Computer Programming Programs in Oregon
Program Landscape
Oregon offers 6 accredited associate's degree programs in computer programming, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Portland Community College, Lane Community College, Clackamas Community College, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Oregon offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $4,787/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $58,119 in Oregon.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Oregon's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Portland, Beaverton, Hillsboro areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Intel, Nike, Salesforce hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among computer programming schools in Oregon, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their computer programming degrees in Oregon.
Show all 6 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Blue Mountain Community College | Pendleton, OR | Public | $5,220 | — | 34.6 |
Best Bachelor's Computer Programming Programs in Oregon
Program Landscape
Oregon ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer programming education, with 7 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 2 public and 5 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Oregon State, Lewis & Clark College, Portland State, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Oregon computer programming programs earn a median salary of $89,820, 9% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Portland, Beaverton, Hillsboro metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Intel, Nike, Salesforce.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $8,694 to $61,916 annually, with an average of $41,020/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 89%, with the highest reaching 95%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Oregon's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer programming degrees in Oregon, these top-ranked computer programming schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Show all 7 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Linfield University | McMinnville, OR | Private | $49,810 | — | 37.8 |
| #7 | Pacific University | Forest Grove, OR | Private | $53,174 | — | 33.9 |
Best Master's Computer Programming Programs in Oregon
Program Landscape
Oregon offers 2 master's degree programs in computer programming, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Oregon State, Portland State, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Oregon earn a median salary of $105,670, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Portland, Beaverton, Hillsboro creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Intel, Nike, Salesforce actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $9,920/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Oregon's computer programming schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
Best Doctoral Computer Programming Programs in Oregon
Program Landscape
Oregon is home to 2 doctoral programs in computer programming, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at Oregon State, Portland State are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Oregon PhD holders earning a median of $132,088, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Portland, Beaverton, Hillsboro region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Intel, Nike, Salesforce.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Oregon programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing computer programming degrees in Oregon, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
Computer Programming Degree Costs & Tuition in Oregon
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $24,297/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $60,743/year |
| Community college tuition | $6,074/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $145,784 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $36,446 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Programming Students in Oregon
State Aid Programs
Oregon residents pursuing computer programming degrees have access to multiple financial aid pathways. The Oregon Opportunity Grant provides need-based grants specifically for Oregon residents attending eligible institutions, making it a key resource for reducing out-of-pocket costs. At the federal level, students can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to access federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. The Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Commission oversees these programs and coordinates with institutions statewide to ensure equitable access.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond grants and federal aid, many Oregon computer programming programs offer institutional scholarships and assistantships. Students should explore merit-based scholarships at top-ranked programs like Oregon State University's bachelor's programs and Portland State University, which also participate in the Oregon Transfer Module system. This transfer framework allows community college students to seamlessly transition to four-year institutions while preserving financial aid eligibility. For comprehensive guidance on federal student aid options, the Federal Student Aid website provides detailed information on grants, loans, and repayment plans tailored to individual circumstances.
Computer Programming Degree ROI Calculator, Oregon
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer programming degree in Oregon. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Computer Programming Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a computer programming degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
+854%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
$1,580,373
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
$112,500
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Direct cost of the degree program
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Computer Programming Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Oregon metro areas
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Portland | $116K |
| Beaverton | $111K |
| Hillsboro | $106K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Computer Programming Graduates in Oregon
Oregon's technology sector is anchored by several major employers who actively recruit computer programming graduates. Providence Health, Intel, Nike, OHSU, and Oregon Health & Science University represent the state's largest employers of technology professionals. These organizations span healthcare, manufacturing, consumer goods, and technology sectors, creating diverse career opportunities for programmers with varying skill sets and interests. Intel's presence in Hillsboro and Beaverton makes the Portland Metro region particularly attractive for systems and embedded systems programming roles, while healthcare institutions like OHSU and Providence Health drive demand for healthcare IT and specialized application development. According to BLS occupational data, compensation in Oregon's tech sector remains competitive, supporting long-term career sustainability.
Students preparing for careers with these employers should consider programs at top institutions like Oregon State University, which produced 1,032 completions and ranks first in the state for computer programming, or Portland State University, which contributed 251 completions and maintains strong industry partnerships. The Oregon Transfer Module enables pathway flexibility, allowing students to begin at community colleges like Portland Community College before transferring to four-year institutions. Explore software engineering, web development, and computer science programs for complementary career specializations that strengthen employer competitiveness.
Transfer Pathways for Computer Programming Degrees in Oregon
State Transfer System
Oregon's seamless transfer system enables students to begin computer programming education at 9 community colleges and transition efficiently to bachelor's degree programs at four-year institutions. The Oregon Transfer Module guarantees that general education credits earned at two-year institutions transfer directly to public universities, eliminating lost credits and reducing time-to-degree. Top feeder institutions include Portland Community College (50 completions in 2023), Mt Hood Community College, Chemeketa Community College, Linn-Benton Community College, and Lane Community College (22 completions). These community colleges offer affordable introductory coursework at tuition rates ranging from $4,392 to $5,817, substantially lower than four-year institutions.
How Transfers Work
Students pursuing the associate-to-bachelor's pathway benefit from articulation agreements between community colleges and universities like Oregon State University, Portland State University, and University of Oregon. Graduates earning an Associate of Science (AS) degree in Computer Programming meet the lower-division requirements for bachelor's programs, allowing direct admission into upper-level major courses. This pathway saves $15,000-$20,000 in tuition compared to attending a four-year institution exclusively. Financial support through the Oregon Opportunity Grant provides need-based funding for Oregon residents, helping offset community college and university costs. For additional context on affordability, review most affordable programs. The transfer system also facilitates lateral movement between institutions, allowing students to optimize location, program specialization, and cost throughout their academic careers.
Why Pursue a Computer Programming Degree in Oregon?
Industry & Workforce
Oregon has established itself as a significant hub for computer programming education, with 20 institutions offering programs across all degree levels (IPEDS). The state produced 1,135 bachelor's degree completions in computer programming during 2023, demonstrating strong educational infrastructure and employment demand. Oregon State University leads the state with an impressive 1,032 completions, while Portland State University contributed 251 completions, reflecting strong regional concentration in the Portland metropolitan area and Corvallis.
Salary Outlook
Oregon's technology sector is anchored by major employers including Intel, Nike, Providence Health, and Oregon Health & Science University, creating abundant internship and employment opportunities for graduates. The state's strategic location in the Pacific Northwest, combined with a collaborative tech ecosystem spanning Portland, Eugene, and Beaverton, attracts both established corporations and innovative startups. Public in-state tuition averages $9,555 at four-year institutions, offering affordability compared to national averages (College Scorecard). For prospective students exploring specialized paths, software engineering in Oregon, web development in Oregon, and computer science in Oregon provide complementary degree options within the state's comprehensive tech education landscape.
Oregon's Tech Ecosystem
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024, Oregon Business, Silicon Forest
Computer Programming Job Market & Salary Data in Oregon
Employment Outlook
Oregon's computer programming job market is strong and growing, with strong demand across multiple metropolitan regions. The state supports 20 institutions offering computer programming degrees at various levels, from associate's through doctoral programs, producing 1,436 completions annually according to the latest IPEDS data. The Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro metro area serves as the primary tech hub, followed by secondary markets in Eugene-Springfield and Salem. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Oregon's technology sector continues to expand, with competitive compensation packages and diverse career pathways across software development, systems programming, and application development roles.
Salaries by Metro
Job seekers in Oregon benefit from concentrated tech employment in Portland, Beaverton, Hillsboro, and Corvallis, where major corporations maintain significant operations. The state's average public in-state tuition for four-year institutions is $9,555, making education accessible for aspiring programmers. Career growth in the state remains steady, supported by workforce development initiatives through the Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Commission. Students interested in understanding long-term career prospects should explore national best bachelor's programs and national affordable options to identify institutions with strong employment outcomes and industry partnerships.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Online vs On-Campus Computer Programming Programs in Oregon
Online Programs
2 available in Oregon
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Compare Computer Programming Programs in Other States
- Total Programs
- 51
- Median Tuition
- $4,600
- Total Programs
- 193
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
- Total Programs
- 8
- Median Tuition
- $7,900
- Total Programs
- 12
- Median Tuition
- $6,000
- Total Programs
- 75
- Median Tuition
- $6,800
- Total Programs
- 111
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
- Total Programs
- 67
- Median Tuition
- $43,700
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
Computer Programming Degree Programs in Oregon: FAQ
What are the best computer programming degree programs in Oregon?
How much do computer programming degree programs cost in Oregon?
What salary can computer programming degree graduates earn in Oregon?
Are there online computer programming degree programs in Oregon?
What companies hire computer programming degree graduates in Oregon?
Is a computer programming degree program worth it in Oregon?
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What financial aid is available for computer programming degree students in Oregon?
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Oregon salary and employment data
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.