Top STEM Schools in Oregon: Unlocking Innovation and Future Careers

Why STEM Education Matters

STEM—Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics—is the foundation of modern innovation and a key driver of economic growth. Whether it’s engineering groundbreaking solutions, advancing medical research, or shaping the future of artificial intelligence, STEM professionals are in high demand.

Oregon is home to some of the best STEM schools in the country, offering cutting-edge programs, research opportunities, and strong industry partnerships. Whether you’re interested in computer science, biotechnology, data analytics, or aerospace engineering, these institutions provide world-class education and hands-on experience to prepare you for a thriving career.

This guide highlights the top STEM schools in Oregon, each offering high-quality education, research opportunities, and financial aid to support aspiring scientists, engineers, and tech innovators.

Top STEM Schools in Oregon

The Best STEM Schools in Oregon

Oregon State University – College of Science & Engineering

Location: Corvallis, OR

Oregon State University (OSU) is a leader in STEM education, with top-ranked programs in engineering, computer science, and environmental sciences. Its strong emphasis on research and industry collaboration makes it a top choice for aspiring STEM professionals.

Highlights:

Nationally recognized engineering and computer science programs.
Research-driven learning with access to cutting-edge facilities like the O.H. Hinsdale Wave Research Laboratory.
Partnerships with major tech companies such as Intel and Boeing.
Extensive internship and co-op opportunities.

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Scholarships & Financial Aid

University of Oregon – College of Arts and Sciences (STEM Programs)

Location: Eugene, OR

The University of Oregon (UO) is known for its innovative research in physics, chemistry, and environmental sciences. It offers a robust STEM curriculum with a focus on sustainability and scientific discovery.

Highlights:

Strong STEM research programs in physics, chemistry, and life sciences.
Cutting-edge research facilities, including the Phil and Penny Knight Campus for Accelerating Scientific Impact.
Interdisciplinary STEM initiatives integrating technology, business, and healthcare.
Opportunities for undergraduate research and innovation projects.

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Scholarships & Financial Aid

Portland State University – Maseeh College of Engineering and Computer Science

Location: Portland, OR

Portland State University (PSU) offers excellent STEM programs with a strong focus on engineering, computer science, and sustainability. Located in the tech hub of Portland, PSU provides students with exceptional industry connections and internship opportunities.

Highlights:

Hands-on engineering and computer science programs with real-world applications.
Strong ties with local technology firms, including Intel and Nike.
Research-driven curriculum focusing on green energy and smart city technologies.
Urban location provides access to numerous tech startups and established companies.

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Scholarships & Financial Aid

Oregon Institute of Technology (Oregon Tech) – STEM-Focused Programs

Location: Klamath Falls, OR & Portland-Metro Campus

Oregon Tech specializes in applied STEM education, offering top-tier programs in engineering, medical imaging, cybersecurity, and renewable energy.

Highlights:

Hands-on learning with state-of-the-art labs and real-world applications.
Nationally ranked renewable energy and healthcare technology programs.
Strong emphasis on career readiness, with a high employment rate among graduates.
Industry partnerships with companies like Boeing and NASA.

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Scholarships & Financial Aid

Reed College – Science and Mathematics Division

Location: Portland, OR

Reed College is a top liberal arts institution with a rigorous STEM curriculum. It offers strong programs in biology, chemistry, and physics, with a unique focus on research and academic exploration.

Highlights:

Research-intensive STEM programs with a high faculty-to-student ratio.
State-of-the-art chemistry and biology laboratories.
Emphasis on independent research projects, including a required senior thesis.
Graduates frequently pursue careers in scientific research and medicine.

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Scholarships & Financial Aid

Willamette University – College of Science and Mathematics

Location: Salem, OR

Willamette University provides a strong foundation in STEM disciplines with a liberal arts approach. Its programs in biology, chemistry, and environmental science prepare students for graduate studies and careers in research.

Highlights:

Small class sizes and personalized faculty mentorship.
Research opportunities with a focus on sustainability and environmental studies.
Close connections with Salem’s biotech and healthcare industries.
Strong graduate placement rate in medical and engineering programs.

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Scholarships & Financial Aid

George Fox University – STEM & Engineering Programs

Location: Newberg, OR

George Fox University offers an excellent STEM curriculum, including computer science, data analytics, and biomedical engineering. The school integrates faith-based education with strong scientific research.

Highlights:

Interdisciplinary STEM programs with a focus on ethical leadership.
State-of-the-art engineering and computer science labs.
Opportunities for undergraduate research in AI, cybersecurity, and biotechnology.
Small student-to-faculty ratio for individualized learning.

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Scholarships & Financial Aid

Western Oregon University – Division of Natural Sciences & Mathematics

Location: Monmouth, OR

Western Oregon University (WOU) offers strong programs in STEM disciplines such as environmental science, mathematics, and forensic chemistry.

Highlights:

Programs focused on environmental sustainability and conservation science.
Research opportunities in chemistry, physics, and computational sciences.
Modern lab facilities with hands-on learning opportunities.
Strong partnerships with local and state science organizations.

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Scholarships & Financial Aid

Southern Oregon University – School of Science & Engineering

Location: Ashland, OR

Southern Oregon University (SOU) offers excellent STEM education with a focus on computer science, environmental science, and biotechnology.

Highlights:

Programs designed for innovation in technology and environmental sustainability.
Cutting-edge research opportunities in renewable energy and climate science.
Emphasis on project-based learning and real-world applications.
Close ties with the local tech industry for internships and job placement.

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Scholarships & Financial Aid

The Future is STEM

STEM careers are shaping the future, and Oregon’s top schools provide an excellent foundation for students to thrive in these fields. Whether you’re interested in engineering, data science, environmental studies, or medical research, these institutions offer rigorous coursework, research opportunities, and industry connections to help you succeed.

With scholarships and financial aid available, pursuing a STEM education in Oregon is more accessible than ever. Now is the time to take the next step—explore these programs, connect with admissions offices, and start your journey toward a dynamic, high-impact career in STEM.

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