Best Associate's Computer Science Degree Programs in Oregon
Chemeketa Community College — Salem, OR
Hakia Insight: Chemeketa's proximity to Intel's Hillsboro fab and Salem's state IT operations means your hands-on labs aren't hypothetical—you're learning on the exact infrastructure employers are hiring for, collapsing the gap between 'classroom project' and 'day-one competency.'
At the associate's level, you'll build real-world skills through hands-on labs and projects that mirror what IT professionals actually do in the field. Chemeketa's computer science program emphasizes practical networking, systems administration, and troubleshooting—the exact competencies that employers in the Willamette Valley are actively hiring for. Graduates typically move into help desk and junior systems administrator roles at local healthcare systems, government agencies, and tech firms, or transfer to Oregon State University and University of Oregon for bachelor's degrees. The program's strength lies in its industry connections and internship opportunities that often convert to full-time employment before graduation.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Salem Health, State of Oregon IT departments, Intel (Hillsboro area), Local school districts.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Oregon State University
- University of Oregon
- Portland State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Systems Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
- Desktop Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Linn-Benton Community College — Albany, OR
Hakia Insight: Linn-Benton's Hewlett-Packard partnership isn't just a recruiting pipeline; it typically translates into HP equipment labs and curriculum co-design, giving you practice on enterprise systems many four-year students won't touch until internship.
At the associate's level, strong connections to Hewlett-Packard and other major employers in the mid-Willamette Valley give this program an edge in job placement and real-world relevance. Students engage with current enterprise technology stacks, cybersecurity fundamentals, and hands-on networking labs that prepare them for immediate employment or seamless transfer to four-year institutions. Graduates work as help desk technicians, junior administrators, and technical support specialists at tech companies, hospitals, and government agencies throughout Oregon. What makes Linn-Benton distinctive is how the curriculum is shaped by direct feedback from regional employers who actively hire graduates.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Hewlett-Packard, Good Samaritan Hospital, City of Salem IT, Corvallis-area tech companies, State of Oregon agencies.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Oregon State University
- University of Oregon
- Portland State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Systems Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
- Network Support Technician
- Desktop Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Cisco CCNA (in some tracks)
Location Advantages:
Mt Hood Community College — Gresham, OR
Hakia Insight: Mt. Hood's Intel and Oracle partnerships place it in the rare position of teaching cloud platforms and semiconductor-adjacent systems on current hardware—most community colleges lag 2–3 years behind the stack employers actually deploy.
At the associate's level, with a focus on applied technology and direct industry partnerships, Mt. Hood's program gets you working on current systems and cloud platforms from day one. The curriculum balances foundational computer science theory with certifications in Azure, AWS, and CompTIA tracks that employers actually list in job postings. You'll find strong pathways to Oregon State University and University of Oregon, or step directly into junior IT roles at Portland-area tech companies, healthcare networks, and financial services firms. The program's advantage is its proximity to Portland's tech hub and connections to companies actively recruiting from the area.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Intel, IBM, Oracle, Providence Health & Services, Portland-area tech startups.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Oregon State University
- University of Oregon
- Portland State University
- Oregon Institute of Technology
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Cloud Support Associate
- Junior Network Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
- Desktop Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
Location Advantages:
Central Oregon Community College — Bend, OR
Hakia Insight: Central Oregon's tight-knit employer network (healthcare, finance, local government) creates a rare advantage for associate's students: you're not competing against hundreds for entry-level roles, but rather filling specific, well-defined needs in a smaller labor market.
At the associate's level, if you want hands-on experience building and troubleshooting systems while working in a tight-knit tech community, Central Oregon's program delivers exactly that. The curriculum emphasizes hardware fundamentals, network configuration, and troubleshooting skills—the bread-and-butter competencies that employers in Bend and across central Oregon actively recruit for. You'll prepare for CompTIA and vendor certifications while building relationships with instructors and employers who know your name. Graduates transition into help desk, junior admin, and technical support roles at local and regional companies, or transfer to OSU, UO, or OIT to pursue bachelor's degrees.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Bend Chamber of Commerce tech partnerships, Local healthcare systems, Bend-area financial services, Government agencies in central Oregon.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Oregon State University
- University of Oregon
- Oregon Institute of Technology
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Systems Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
- Desktop Support Technician
- Network Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Clackamas Community College — Oregon City, OR
Hakia Insight: Clackamas sits 15 miles from Portland's downtown tech corridor where Intel, Oracle, and hundreds of mid-market firms are actively hiring—proximity alone translates to internship density and informal mentorship pathways most community colleges simply can't offer.
At the associate's level, close proximity to Portland's booming tech sector means your internships and job leads connect you directly to companies actively expanding their IT teams. Clackamas offers structured pathways through CompTIA, Azure, and AWS certifications alongside core computer science coursework, ensuring you graduate with both theoretical knowledge and credentials employers specifically ask for. The program balances transfer-friendly academics with workforce-ready skills—many students land junior IT roles before completing their second year, while others transfer to Oregon State, University of Oregon, or Portland State with full junior standing. The real win here is the Portland metro network and the sheer number of employers hiring nearby.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Intel, Oracle, IBM, Providence Health & Services, Portland-area tech startups and mid-market firms.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Portland State University
- Oregon State University
- University of Oregon
- Oregon Institute of Technology
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Cloud Support Associate
- Junior Systems Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
- Desktop Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
Location Advantages:
Lane Community College — Eugene, OR
Hakia Insight: Lane's dual track (theory + application) and proximity to University of Oregon IT operations create an unusual benefit: you can transfer to a research-focused bachelor's program without remediation, or step directly into a UO systems role—a rare dual-outcome flexibility.
At the associate's level, offering a robust computer science curriculum rooted in both theory and application, Lane prepares graduates for immediate employment or seamless transfer to research universities in the University of Oregon system. The program builds competency in networking, systems administration, and emerging technologies through hands-on labs and real-world projects. You'll earn industry-recognized certifications while developing problem-solving skills that employers in Eugene, Springfield, and beyond actively seek. Graduates work as help desk technicians, junior administrators, and technical support specialists, or continue their education at UO, Oregon State, and other four-year institutions with a strong academic foundation.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: University of Oregon IT, Springfield Utility Board, Lane County government agencies, Healthcare systems in Eugene, Local tech companies and startups.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Oregon
- Oregon State University
- Portland State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Systems Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
- Desktop Support Technician
- Network Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Rogue Community College — Grants Pass, OR
Hakia Insight: Rogue's responsiveness to regional employer needs means your curriculum evolves with Rogue Valley Medical Center and local tech companies' actual hiring gaps, not static textbook content—a real-time market signal most schools miss.
At the associate's level, in southern Oregon's growing tech landscape, Rogue's computer science program stands out for its flexibility and responsiveness to regional employer needs. You'll develop hands-on skills in systems support, networking fundamentals, and emerging cloud platforms while earning CompTIA and vendor certifications that open immediate job opportunities. The program supports both rapid workforce entry and smooth transfer to Oregon State, University of Oregon, and Oregon Institute of Technology. What sets Rogue apart is its personalized approach—smaller cohorts mean more individualized attention from instructors and stronger mentoring relationships that lead to meaningful internships and job placements in the Rogue Valley tech community.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Rogue Valley Medical Center, Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest IT, Jackson County government agencies, Local small businesses and tech companies, Regional healthcare networks.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Oregon State University
- University of Oregon
- Oregon Institute of Technology
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Desktop Support Technician
- Network Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Southwestern Oregon Community College — Coos Bay, OR
Key Distinction: Southwestern Oregon Community College provides affordable Computer Science education with flexible scheduling and transfer pathways to four-year universities.
Hakia Insight: Southwestern Oregon's Coos Bay location serves a region where tech talent is scarce; graduates often find themselves the most qualified local hire for roles that would be entry-level competition in Portland or Eugene.
Southwestern Oregon Community College offers Computer Science programs in Coos Bay, OR. As a public institution and community college, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Tillamook Bay Community College — Tillamook, OR
Key Distinction: Tillamook Bay Community College provides affordable Computer Science education with flexible scheduling and transfer pathways to four-year universities.
Hakia Insight: Tillamook Bay's rural location paradoxically strengthens outcomes: employers in coastal Oregon face genuine talent shortages, so associate's graduates often skip the typical 'pay-your-dues' phase and move into mid-level roles within 2–3 years.
Tillamook Bay Community College offers Computer Science programs in Tillamook, OR. As a public institution and community college, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Clatsop Community College — Astoria, OR
Key Distinction: Clatsop Community College provides affordable Computer Science education with flexible scheduling and transfer pathways to four-year universities.
Hakia Insight: Clatsop's Astoria location on the Columbia River corridor connects you to a growing cluster of distributed-workforce tech companies and maritime tech startups seeking remote-first developers—an emerging job market traditional programs overlook.
Clatsop Community College offers Computer Science programs in Astoria, OR. As a public institution and community college, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Bachelor's Computer Science Degree Programs in Oregon
Oregon State University — Corvallis, OR
Key Distinction: Three-term capstone senior design project with engineering design and project management focus. Hands-on projects including programming custom sensor boards and coordinating cloud data centers
Hakia Insight: Oregon State's three-term capstone involving custom sensor boards and cloud data center coordination, paired with direct access to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, means you're building infrastructure that runs real national-lab workloads—a depth of systems experience most state universities reserve for grad students.
Oregon State University's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is offered online through Ecampus, providing students with advanced skills in software engineering, web development, cybersecurity, and computer networking. The program requires a minimum of 180 quarter credits, including at least 60 upper-division credits. Students complete a three-term capstone senior design project that exposes them to engineering design and project management challenges. The program offers two specialization options: Applied Computer Science (allowing customized electives) and Cybersecurity (focused on defensive systems design). Faculty members bring broad, hands-on industry expertise. Students gain practical experience through projects including programming custom sensor boards and coordinating cloud data centers. The program emphasizes career readiness and industry relations, positioning graduates for in-demand roles such as cybersecurity engineer, software developer, database engineer, and network systems engineer. Graduates can pursue the Accelerated Master's Platform to begin graduate-level coursework while completing their bachelor's degree.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- HPC Lab (High-Performance Computing Laboratory)
Industry Partners
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (government)
- Intel (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Allen D. Malony — High-performance computing, performance analysis, parallel computing
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Direct access to Pacific Northwest National LaboratoryProximity to Intel's Oregon operationsConnection to open-source software community (Linux kernel development, GCC toolchain)
University of Oregon — Eugene, OR
Key Distinction: Joint major combining mathematics and computer science. Capstone experience through Introduction to Software Engineering (CS 322)
Hakia Insight: UO's joint Mathematics and Computer Science major isn't a soft compromise; it's a deliberate signal to employers like IBM and Intel that you've done rigorous theory work, making you competitive for roles requiring both algorithmic depth and statistical literacy.
The Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computer Science (MACS) is a joint major that develops team players prepared for information-based jobs by combining rigorous training in both disciplines. Students complete 96 credits across four categories: 44 credits in mathematics, 40 credits in computer science, and 16 credits in science and writing. The curriculum emphasizes core competencies in data structures, algorithms, computer systems, programming languages, and software development, alongside mathematical proof-writing and advanced mathematics topics. Students must achieve a grade of B– or better in lower-division core courses (CS 210–212, MATH 231–232) before advancing to upper-division coursework. The program includes a required capstone component through Introduction to Software Engineering (CS 322) and allows specialization through elective selections in areas such as theoretical foundations, computer systems, or software development. Upon completion, graduates are equipped to analyze complex problems computationally and possess the analytical skills demanded by technology-driven careers.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Computing and Data Understanding at eXtreme Scale (CDUX)
- Human-Computer Interaction Lab (HCI)
- Network & Security Research Lab
- Performance Research Lab (PRL)
- Natural Language Processing Group
- High-Performance Computing Lab (HPCL)
- Oregon Network Research Group (ONRG)
- AI Research Group
- Center for Cyber Security and Privacy
- Oregon Advanced Computing Institute for Science and Society (OACISS)
- Erickson Group
- Lowd Group
Industry Partners
- IBM (corporate)
- Intel (corporate)
- Adobe (collaborator)
- The Home Depot (collaborator)
- Ripple (sponsor)
- National Science Foundation (sponsor)
- National Security Agency (collaborator)
- Apache Community (collaborator)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Reza Rejaie — Networking, Internet Measurement, Networked Systems, Cybersecurity
- Dr. Allen Malony — Parallel and Distributed Computing, Performance Analysis, High Performance Computing
- Dr. Jun Li — Cyber Security and Privacy, Networking, Distributed Systems, Blockchain
- Dr. Brittany Erickson — Computational science, numerical methods, high-performance computing, seismology
- Dr. Ram Durairajan — Computer Networking, Multi-cloud Computing, Internet Data Science
- Dr. Yingjiu Li — IoT Security and Privacy, Mobile and System Security, Applied Cryptography
- Dr. Suyash Gupta — Distributed Systems, Databases, Fault-Tolerance, Blockchain
- Dr. Thien Nguyen — Information Extraction, Natural Language Processing, Deep Learning
- Dr. Yu Wang — Multi-purpose Neural-Symbolic Learning, Graph Machine Learning
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.00 minimum for continuation. Application Deadline: December 15, 2025.
Requirements: Grade of B– or better in CS 210, CS 211, CS 212, MATH 231, MATH 232, Grade of C– or better in all upper-division courses, At least 12 upper-division mathematics credits taken in residence, At least 12 upper-division computer science credits taken in residence, Completion of Major Progress Review after 12 upper-division core credits, All major courses taken for letter grades (except science courses which may be P/N), Completion of Introduction to Software Engineering (CS 322), Scientific and Technical Writing or Business Communications (WR 320 or WR 321), 12 credits from approved science areas (Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Earth Sciences, Physics, or Psychology)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Portland tech ecosystem and major tech company operationsAccess to IBM and Intel regional offices for internships and recruitingGrowing local startup scene in Eugene and surrounding region
Lewis & Clark College — Portland, OR
Key Distinction: Lewis & Clark's computer science program uniquely centers ethical reasoning and interdisciplinary application, producing technologists grounded in humanistic values.
Hakia Insight: Lewis & Clark's unusual emphasis on ethical reasoning in CS coursework—rare at the bachelor's level—produces graduates who stand out in interviews at social-impact firms, nonprofits, and civic tech organizations where many peers lack that fluency.
Lewis & Clark's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is a traditional CS major designed for students seeking deeper computer science coursework with fewer mathematics requirements than the CS/Math hybrid option. The program requires foundational courses in Computer Science I and II, Computational Mathematics, Computer Architecture, Algorithm Design and Analysis, and Software Development, complemented by four additional upper-level CS electives (16 credits). Students can pursue an optional Cybersecurity Concentration requiring 14 credits, including courses in network security, cybersecurity fundamentals, and web development. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical application, with electives spanning computer graphics, artificial intelligence, programming language structures, and theory of computation. The program integrates with Lewis & Clark's liberal arts education model, allowing students to combine technical expertise with broad interdisciplinary knowledge.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Location Advantages: Located in Portland with access to tech companies, startups, and social impact organizationsProximity to nonprofits and civic institutions valuing ethics-centered technologists
Portland State University — Portland, OR
Key Distinction: Mandatory or strongly encouraged paid internships through Engineering Work Experience and Multiple Engineering Cooperative Program (MECOP). Hands-on experience in world-class labs for theoretical computer science and artificial intelligence
Hakia Insight: Portland State's mandated paid internship pathway (MECOP) virtually guarantees you're not fishing for experience in your senior year; the structure ensures you've already solved real problems for Amazon, Apple, or Intel, making your degree a proven asset rather than a credential.
Portland State University's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science blends core courses in programming, systems, and theory with electives spanning artificial intelligence, machine learning, web development, and cloud computing. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through paid internships with major tech companies like Intel, Nike, Amazon, and Zoom—more than half of students secure major-specific internships via the Engineering Work Experience and Multiple Engineering Cooperative Program (MECOP). Students collaborate on real-world projects, including the Portland State Aerospace Society's cube satellite launch. The program benefits from PSU's location in downtown Portland within the Silicon Forest, providing direct access to leading tech employers. Maseeh College reports an 85% job placement rate for graduates, with computer science majors earning starting salaries exceeding $90,000. Graduates pursue diverse roles in software engineering, machine learning, cybersecurity, data analysis, and systems administration at companies including Amazon, Apple, Boeing, Intel, and Tektronix.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Systems Software Research Lab
Industry Partners
- Intel (corporate)
- IBM (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Amazon, Apple, Boeing, Intel.
Notable Faculty
- Melanie Log Kaufmann — Human-computer interaction and accessibility
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Portland tech hub with fintech, cloud infrastructure, and civic technology sectorsPartnerships with local government and nonprofits for applied projectsAccess to Intel, IBM, and other major tech employers in the region
Reed College — Portland, OR
Key Distinction: A liberal arts computer science program where students architect their own specialization through thesis-driven learning, balancing theoretical rigor with interdisciplinary exploration.
Hakia Insight: Reed's thesis-driven model lets undergrads architect their own CS specialization while taking philosophy and physics courses—a luxury typically reserved for PhD students at research universities, giving graduates an unusual competitive edge in roles requiring both technical depth and intellectual flexibility.
At the bachelor's level, reed's computer science program thrives on the college's distinctive liberal arts philosophy, where technical depth pairs with breadth across mathematics, physics, and philosophy of mind. Students design their own concentrations rather than following preset tracks, enabling paths like computational theory paired with cognitive science, or systems programming combined with ethics seminars. The program emphasizes hands-on problem-solving through a junior thesis requirement—essentially a year-long capstone where students tackle real problems in cryptography, machine learning, or systems design under faculty mentorship. With a median class size under 20 and faculty who actively engage in both teaching and research, you'll encounter professors who've contributed to fields like formal verification and programming language design, not just lecturers. Reed's location in Portland connects students to a growing tech scene while maintaining the program's academic rigor; internships and post-graduation placements lean toward startups, research institutions, and companies valuing independent thinking. Graduates often pursue PhD programs or roles requiring strong theoretical foundations, reflecting the program's emphasis on understanding *why* systems work rather than just building them quickly.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Portland tech ecosystem and startup communityAccess to independent research opportunities
Willamette University — Salem, OR
Key Distinction: Willamette's computer science program stands out for integrating liberal arts values with technical depth, producing ethically-grounded technologists rather than algorithm-focused specialists.
Hakia Insight: Willamette's proximity to Oregon state government technology initiatives creates a rare pipeline: students build ethics frameworks in class, then immediately apply them to real civic technology projects rather than generic corporate software.
At the bachelor's level, willamette's computer science program emphasizes a liberal arts approach to computing, where students engage deeply with both theoretical foundations and ethical dimensions of technology. The curriculum integrates computer science with humanities and social sciences, preparing graduates who can bridge technical and human-centered problem-solving—a rare strength among smaller programs. Students work through a scaffolded sequence starting with foundational programming and data structures, then branch into specializations including artificial intelligence, networks, databases, and software engineering. The program's small class sizes mean direct access to faculty for research and mentorship, and students frequently present work at regional computing conferences. Willamette's location in Salem provides internship opportunities with state government agencies and Oregon-based tech companies, while the school's emphasis on civic engagement produces graduates who often tackle technology's societal impact. The capstone experience typically involves real-world projects in partnership with local organizations, giving students portfolio pieces that resonate in interviews. Alumni have moved into roles ranging from startups to established tech firms, with many citing the program's emphasis on communication and ethics as differentiators when competing for positions.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Proximity to Oregon state government technology initiativesAccess to Salem-area tech and software development companies
University of Portland — Portland, OR
Hakia Insight: University of Portland's four-year design integration culminates in a capstone that recruits from Amazon, Garmin, and Apple—suggesting the program's small-class model produces portfolio-ready engineers faster than larger peers.
At the bachelor's level, university of Portland's Computer Science program offers small class sizes with design experiences integrated across all four years, culminating in a capstone project, while emphasizing ethical leadership development rooted in the Holy Cross tradition. Students benefit from undergraduate research opportunities and access to the Shiley-Marcos Center for Design & Innovation with virtual and augmented reality resources.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Amazon, Garmin, Apple, Daimler.
Location Advantages:
Southern Oregon University — Ashland, OR
Key Distinction: Southern Oregon uniquely positions computer science within a strong liberal arts framework, producing graduates comfortable translating between technical teams and diverse stakeholders—an asset in interdisciplinary technology roles.
Hakia Insight: Southern Oregon's Cyber-Security Research Lab and NASA/Cisco partnerships give undergrads access to enterprise-grade security problems typically confined to grad programs, while Dr. DeFreez's focus on machine learning applications to code security creates a specialized talent pipeline.
At the bachelor's level, southern Oregon's computer science curriculum shines in its integration of computer science with liberal arts—students complete foundational CS coursework alongside substantial breadth in humanities, natural sciences, and social studies, creating graduates who can bridge technical and non-technical stakeholders. This approach proves particularly valuable in interdisciplinary roles like health informatics, environmental modeling, educational technology, and digital media production, where CS depth alone doesn't suffice. The program's upper-level electives allow specialization in areas like game development, web applications, and data analysis, with project-based courses encouraging portfolio development. SOU's location in the southern Oregon region, though more rural than Portland, provides a tight-knit learning community and access to industries including outdoor recreation technology, forestry management systems, and local small business development. Faculty maintain research interests in computer graphics and educational technology applications, occasionally creating undergraduate research opportunities. The program's smaller size means students often take on significant roles in student-led projects and technology initiatives on campus.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Cyber-Security Research Lab
Industry Partners
- NASA (collaborator)
- Cisco Systems (collaborator)
- Apple (employer)
- KeyLogic Systems (employer)
- Fairfield Language Technologies (employer)
- Department of Energy National Energy and Technology Laboratory (collaborator)
- OpenSSL (collaborator)
- Linux kernel (collaborator)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Daniel DeFreez — Program analysis, software correctness, computer security, machine learning applications to code
- Dr. Bernadette Boscoe — Scientific computing infrastructures, data science, machine learning
- Dr. Maggie Vanderberg — Software quality assurance, web development, databases, operating systems
- Dr. David Pouliot — Applied cryptography, searchable encryption, software vulnerability checking
- Priscilla Oppenheimer — Computer networking, security, computer forensics
Location Advantages: Outdoor recreation and forestry tech sectorsRegional small business development ecosystem
Western Oregon University — Monmouth, OR
Key Distinction: Western Oregon leads in embedding accessibility and inclusive design principles throughout its computer science curriculum, training students to build technology for diverse user populations from day one.
Hakia Insight: Western Oregon embeds accessibility and inclusive design into its core curriculum rather than treating it as an elective—a strategic advantage for graduates entering roles at companies facing regulatory pressure to hire engineers who actually understand diverse user needs.
At the bachelor's level, western Oregon's computer science program emphasizes accessibility and inclusive design—both in how the program is structured for diverse learners and as a core principle in the coursework itself. The curriculum integrates accessibility-first software development across multiple courses, preparing graduates to build technology that serves broader populations including people with disabilities. This human-centered design philosophy extends to the program's teaching approach; faculty prioritize scaffolded learning and multiple pathways to mastery, making rigorous CS content reachable for students from varied academic backgrounds. The program includes applied tracks in web development and systems programming, with laboratory coursework grounding theory in hands-on implementation. WOU's location in the Willamette Valley provides a quieter environment for focused study while maintaining connections to the Salem government tech sector and regional businesses seeking developers. Internship partnerships with state agencies and nonprofit technology initiatives offer students meaningful work experience in mission-driven contexts, appealing to those interested in public service technology or civic tech.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- State of Oregon IT departments (government)
Notable Faculty
- Lucas Cordova — Software engineering, development methodologies, software testing and verification methods, and software engineering education
Location Advantages: Salem government and public sector tech opportunitiesWillamette Valley regional business connections
Eastern Oregon University — La Grande, OR
Key Distinction: Eastern Oregon delivers computer science education specifically designed for working adults and rural-based learners, combining rigorous curriculum with scheduling flexibility and intimate mentorship.
Hakia Insight: Eastern Oregon's design for working adults and rural learners with flexible scheduling and intimate mentorship fills a genuine gap: rigorous CS training without the assumption students can attend full-time or relocate to a tech hub.
At the bachelor's level, eastern Oregon University's computer science offering serves a distinctive niche: students seeking rigorous CS training in a rural, intimate setting with strong faculty mentorship and flexibility in how and when they learn. The program maintains core competencies in programming, data structures, algorithms, and database design while recognizing that its student population often balances education with work and family responsibilities. Courses are scheduled to accommodate working adults; some offerings use hybrid or asynchronous formats without compromising rigor. The curriculum includes practical tracks in software development and database management, with emphasis on immediately applicable skills. EOU's remote location in northeastern Oregon means students develop self-directed learning habits and become resourceful problem-solvers—qualities that prove valuable in distributed work environments increasingly common in tech. The program fosters genuine relationships between students and faculty; professors invest in understanding individual learning goals and career aspirations. For students unable to relocate to major tech hubs but determined to enter the field, EOU offers a credible pathway combined with lower cost of living.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Lower cost of livingSuited for remote/distributed work preparation
Best Master's Computer Science Degree Programs in Oregon
Oregon State University — Corvallis, OR
Key Distinction: Thesis vs. non-thesis tracks: M.S. (research/thesis-focused) and MEng (coursework/professional-focused). MEng designed specifically for working professionals with no GRE requirement
Hakia Insight: Oregon State's MEng track eliminates the GRE requirement and targets working professionals, but the real differentiator is access to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory—graduates can pivot directly into national lab careers where HPC expertise commands significant premium salaries.
Oregon State University's Master's in Computer Science offers advanced instruction beyond the undergraduate degree, preparing students for careers requiring higher-level expertise in industry and research. The program provides two degree tracks: the M.S. (thesis-based research track) and the MEng (professional coursework track designed for working professionals). Both degrees are available online, accommodating part-time study for working professionals. The M.S. requires GRE scores (optional for some applicants), while the MEng waives the GRE requirement entirely, making it accessible to career-switchers. Graduate assistantships are available through the Office of Graduate Education. The program allows concentration arrangements with other departments (e.g., Mathematics) for specialized focus. Students benefit from EECS's state-of-the-art education and can leverage Oregon State's employer partnerships and tuition support programs. The M.S. prepares graduates for advanced research roles in government, industry, and academia, while the MEng emphasizes immediate professional application and career advancement in engineering practice.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science / Master of Engineering in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS / MEng
Research Labs and Institutes
- HPC Lab (High-Performance Computing Laboratory)
Industry Partners
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (government)
- Intel (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Allen D. Malony — High-performance computing, performance analysis, parallel computing
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Direct access to Pacific Northwest National LaboratoryProximity to Intel's Oregon operationsConnection to open-source software community (Linux kernel development, GCC toolchain)
Portland State University — Portland, OR
Key Distinction: Thesis vs. non-thesis (coursework) track options available. Dedicated staff advisor assigned to each master's student for entire program duration
Hakia Insight: Portland State assigns a dedicated staff advisor to each master's student for the entire program—a structural choice that sounds administrative but measurably improves completion rates and job placement by removing navigation friction that derails working professionals.
Portland State University's Master of Science in Computer Science is designed for working professionals seeking career advancement in the Pacific Northwest's thriving tech ecosystem. The program offers 45 credits with flexible in-person delivery and multiple start terms (Fall, Winter, Spring) to accommodate part-time students. Students can choose between a research-based thesis track or coursework-focused pathway. The program emphasizes real-world experience through local internships (countable toward degree credits) and provides dedicated staff advisors for each master's student. Specializations include cybersecurity, quantum computing, data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, networks and security, data management, and cloud computing. Graduates advance into high-impact roles at major employers including Google, Amazon, and Intel, with computer science being one of the highest-paying professions. The location in Portland's "Silicon Forest" provides unparalleled networking and mentorship opportunities with leading tech companies.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Systems Software Research Lab
Industry Partners
- Intel (corporate)
- IBM (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Google, Amazon, Intel.
Notable Faculty
- Melanie Log Kaufmann — Human-computer interaction and accessibility
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Portland tech hub with fintech, cloud infrastructure, and civic technology sectorsPartnerships with local government and nonprofits for applied projectsAccess to Intel, IBM, and other major tech employers in the region
University of Oregon — Eugene, OR
Key Distinction: Thesis track (9-12 credits CS 503) with public presentation requirement; strongly recommended for PhD-bound students. Non-thesis track (18+ graded credits) for applied professionals
Hakia Insight: University of Oregon's thesis track includes a public presentation requirement and explicit PhD-pathway design, signaling that the program's strength lies not in generic coursework but in producing researchers prepared for doctoral study or advanced industry R&D roles.
The Master of Science in Computer Science at the University of Oregon prepares working professionals for expanded career opportunities across aerospace, graphics, animation, and internet protocols. The program offers flexibility with three completion pathways: thesis track (9-12 credits, recommended for PhD-bound students), non-thesis track (18+ graded credits), and Directed Research Project (DRP) option. The 54-credit program includes 12 credits of breadth coursework, 12 credits of depth specialization, 2 credits of technical writing (CS 640), and 28 elective credits. Students can pursue electives outside the department in related fields like mathematics, physics, and linguistics with advisor approval. The program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA in graduate courses. Part-time study is accommodated, and students benefit from faculty-supervised research or capstone projects demonstrating mastery of computer science practices.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Computing and Data Understanding at eXtreme Scale (CDUX)
- Human-Computer Interaction Lab (HCI)
- Network & Security Research Lab
- Performance Research Lab (PRL)
- Natural Language Processing Group
- High-Performance Computing Lab (HPCL)
- Oregon Network Research Group (ONRG)
- AI Research Group
- Center for Cyber Security and Privacy
- Oregon Advanced Computing Institute for Science and Society (OACISS)
- Erickson Group
- Lowd Group
Industry Partners
- IBM (corporate)
- Intel (corporate)
- Adobe (collaborator)
- The Home Depot (collaborator)
- Ripple (sponsor)
- National Science Foundation (sponsor)
- National Security Agency (collaborator)
- Apache Community (collaborator)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Reza Rejaie — Networking, Internet Measurement, Networked Systems, Cybersecurity
- Dr. Allen Malony — Parallel and Distributed Computing, Performance Analysis, High Performance Computing
- Dr. Jun Li — Cyber Security and Privacy, Networking, Distributed Systems, Blockchain
- Dr. Brittany Erickson — Computational science, numerical methods, high-performance computing, seismology
- Dr. Ram Durairajan — Computer Networking, Multi-cloud Computing, Internet Data Science
- Dr. Yingjiu Li — IoT Security and Privacy, Mobile and System Security, Applied Cryptography
- Dr. Suyash Gupta — Distributed Systems, Databases, Fault-Tolerance, Blockchain
- Dr. Thien Nguyen — Information Extraction, Natural Language Processing, Deep Learning
- Dr. Yu Wang — Multi-purpose Neural-Symbolic Learning, Graph Machine Learning
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.00 minimum for continuation. Application Deadline: December 15, 2025.
Requirements: Breadth requirement: 12 credits (grade B- or higher), Depth requirement: 12 credits (grade B- or higher), Writing requirement: 2 credits (CS 640), Electives: 28 credits, Minimum 3.0 GPA in all graded graduate courses, Thesis, non-thesis, or DRP completion
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Portland tech ecosystem and major tech company operationsAccess to IBM and Intel regional offices for internships and recruitingGrowing local startup scene in Eugene and surrounding region
Best Doctoral Computer Science Degree Programs in Oregon
Oregon State University — Corvallis, OR
Key Distinction: Optional GRE requirement. Additional areas of concentration available through collaboration with other departments
Hakia Insight: Oregon State's optional GRE requirement and direct pipeline to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory's HPC Lab create an unusual advantage for PhD candidates in systems research—you're building your dissertation on hardware and problems where national labs have already invested millions.
Oregon State University's Computer Science Ph.D. program prepares students for careers in government or industry research laboratories or university positions. The program is housed within the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, offering comprehensive state-of-the-art education. Students can pursue additional areas of concentration through collaboration with other departments, such as numerical analysis or computer algebra with the Department of Mathematics. The program accepts applications for fall, winter, and spring terms with a December 10 deadline for doctoral applicants. GRE scores are optional for Ph.D. applicants. The program offers concentrations or tracks beyond the general computer science curriculum, though specific details require consultation with the program website. International students must meet English language requirements with TOEFL iBT minimum score of 80 or IELTS minimum score of 6.5.
Programs Offered
- Computer Science — 4-6 years, on-campus. Ph.D.
Research Labs and Institutes
- HPC Lab (High-Performance Computing Laboratory)
Industry Partners
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (government)
- Intel (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Allen D. Malony — High-performance computing, performance analysis, parallel computing
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Direct access to Pacific Northwest National LaboratoryProximity to Intel's Oregon operationsConnection to open-source software community (Linux kernel development, GCC toolchain)
University of Oregon — Eugene, OR
Key Distinction: First-year directed research project under faculty supervision. Dissertation Advisory Committee guidance
Hakia Insight: University of Oregon's first-year directed research model flips the typical PhD bottleneck: instead of spending year one in coursework, students begin dissertation-level work immediately under faculty supervision, compressing time-to-degree in a competitive research landscape.
The PhD in Computer Science at University of Oregon emphasizes research quality over coursework completion. Students begin with directed research projects in their first year under close faculty supervision, then transition to independent research guided by a Dissertation Advisory Committee. The program requires a significant original research dissertation with quality suitable for one or more conference or journal publications. Students are expected to generate multiple research papers throughout the program, often co-authored with advisors and peers. The structure progresses from foundational coursework and supervised research to independent problem identification and solution in specialized research areas, culminating in dissertation proposal, research conduct, writing, and oral defense. The program requires higher TOEFL/IELTS scores than university minimums and applications including transcripts, letters of recommendation, resume, and statement of purpose.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science — 4-6 years, on-campus. PhD
Research Labs and Institutes
- Computing and Data Understanding at eXtreme Scale (CDUX)
- Human-Computer Interaction Lab (HCI)
- Network & Security Research Lab
- Performance Research Lab (PRL)
- Natural Language Processing Group
- High-Performance Computing Lab (HPCL)
- Oregon Network Research Group (ONRG)
- AI Research Group
- Center for Cyber Security and Privacy
- Oregon Advanced Computing Institute for Science and Society (OACISS)
- Erickson Group
- Lowd Group
Industry Partners
- IBM (corporate)
- Intel (corporate)
- Adobe (collaborator)
- The Home Depot (collaborator)
- Ripple (sponsor)
- National Science Foundation (sponsor)
- National Security Agency (collaborator)
- Apache Community (collaborator)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Reza Rejaie — Networking, Internet Measurement, Networked Systems, Cybersecurity
- Dr. Allen Malony — Parallel and Distributed Computing, Performance Analysis, High Performance Computing
- Dr. Jun Li — Cyber Security and Privacy, Networking, Distributed Systems, Blockchain
- Dr. Brittany Erickson — Computational science, numerical methods, high-performance computing, seismology
- Dr. Ram Durairajan — Computer Networking, Multi-cloud Computing, Internet Data Science
- Dr. Yingjiu Li — IoT Security and Privacy, Mobile and System Security, Applied Cryptography
- Dr. Suyash Gupta — Distributed Systems, Databases, Fault-Tolerance, Blockchain
- Dr. Thien Nguyen — Information Extraction, Natural Language Processing, Deep Learning
- Dr. Yu Wang — Multi-purpose Neural-Symbolic Learning, Graph Machine Learning
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.00 minimum for continuation. Application Deadline: December 15, 2025.
Requirements: Comprehensive understanding of computer science, Original research dissertation, Oral examination defense, Quality suitable for conference or journal publications
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Portland tech ecosystem and major tech company operationsAccess to IBM and Intel regional offices for internships and recruitingGrowing local startup scene in Eugene and surrounding region
Portland State University — Portland, OR
Key Distinction: A program built on applied research and community engagement, where students solve real-world problems alongside faculty while developing expertise in software engineering, data science, or cybersecurity.
Hakia Insight: Portland State's partnership with local government and nonprofits for applied research means dissertation topics address real-world infrastructure and civic tech problems—a practical edge for students seeking industry or policy roles over traditional academia.
At the doctoral level, portland State's computer science program distinguishes itself through applied research and community-engaged computing—students don't just learn algorithms in isolation, but deploy them on real problems affecting the city and region. The curriculum balances a solid theoretical core with practical tracks in software engineering, data science, and cybersecurity, allowing students to specialize early without sacrificing breadth. Faculty research spans human-computer interaction, software testing, and systems reliability, often conducted in partnership with local government, nonprofits, and tech companies. The program benefits from Portland's position as a mid-size tech hub with growing demand for engineers in fintech, cloud infrastructure, and civic technology; internship pipelines are strong and often lead directly to employment. Graduate degrees (MS and PhD) complement the undergraduate program, enabling a pathway from BS to advanced study without changing institutions. What sets PSU apart is the emphasis on learning by doing—capstone projects frequently involve external partners, labs stress collaborative problem-solving, and students graduate with portfolios of work they can point to, not just transcripts.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Computer Science — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Systems Software Research Lab
Industry Partners
- Intel (corporate)
- IBM (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Intel, Daimler Trucks.
Notable Faculty
- Melanie Log Kaufmann — Human-computer interaction and accessibility
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Portland tech hub with fintech, cloud infrastructure, and civic technology sectorsPartnerships with local government and nonprofits for applied projectsAccess to Intel, IBM, and other major tech employers in the region
