Reed College

Overview

Reed College, located in Portland, Oregon, is a private liberal arts college renowned for its rigorous academic programs, commitment to the humanities, and vibrant intellectual community. Founded in 1908, Reed is known for its unique educational approach, including the absence of standardized grades and a mandatory senior thesis.

History

Reed College was established in 1908 with a bequest from Oregon pioneers Simeon and Amanda Reed. The college’s mission has always been to provide a rigorous liberal arts education. Over the decades, Reed has maintained a reputation for academic excellence and a distinctive educational philosophy.

Academic Offerings

Reed offers a wide range of undergraduate programs in the arts, sciences, and social sciences. The college is particularly renowned for its programs in the humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. Students engage in a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, independent research, and interdisciplinary study.

Student Life

Student life at Reed is characterized by intellectual engagement and a strong sense of community. The college offers numerous student organizations, cultural events, and recreational activities. Reed’s campus features a mixture of historic and modern buildings, extensive green spaces, and a canyon nature preserve.

Unique Features

Reed’s unique educational features include its Humanities 110 course, which all first-year students must take, and its senior thesis requirement. The college does not use traditional letter grades, instead opting for a system of narrative evaluations. Reed also emphasizes a collaborative rather than competitive academic environment.

Admissions

Reed’s admissions process is highly selective, with an acceptance rate typically around 35%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The college places a strong emphasis on intellectual curiosity and a passion for learning.

Alumni

Reed’s alumni network includes notable figures such as Apple co-founder Steve Jobs (who attended but did not graduate), Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Gary Snyder, and environmentalist and writer Barry Lopez. Reed graduates are known for their contributions to various fields, including technology, literature, and environmental science.

Lewis & Clark College

Overview

Lewis & Clark College, located in Portland, Oregon, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on international education, environmental sustainability, and social justice. Founded in 1867, the college offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Lewis & Clark College was originally established as Albany Collegiate Institute in Albany, Oregon. It relocated to Portland in 1938 and was renamed in honor of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The college has a long history of promoting global awareness and environmental stewardship.

Academic Offerings

Lewis & Clark offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its College of Arts and Sciences, Graduate School of Education and Counseling, and School of Law. The college is particularly renowned for its programs in international affairs, environmental studies, and law.

Student Life

Student life at Lewis & Clark is vibrant and diverse, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The college’s picturesque campus is located on a hill overlooking the Willamette River, featuring modern facilities and extensive wooded areas.

Unique Features

Lewis & Clark is known for its strong emphasis on international education, offering numerous study abroad programs and hosting a large number of international students. The college also has a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, with initiatives aimed at reducing its carbon footprint and promoting green practices.

Admissions

Lewis & Clark’s admissions process is selective, with an acceptance rate typically around 70%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The college values students who demonstrate a commitment to social justice and global awareness.

Alumni

Lewis & Clark’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former U.S. Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell, Pulitzer Prize-winning author William Finnegan, and environmental activist and writer Rick Bass. Graduates are known for their contributions to public service, literature, and environmental advocacy.

University of Portland

Overview

The University of Portland (UP), located in Portland, Oregon, is a private Catholic university known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, ethical leadership, and community service. Founded in 1901, UP offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

The University of Portland was founded in 1901 by the Congregation of Holy Cross, a Catholic religious order. The university has grown significantly over the years, becoming a leading institution known for its commitment to faith-based education and community service.

Academic Offerings

UP offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various schools and colleges, including the College of Arts and Sciences, the Pamplin School of Business, the School of Education, the School of Nursing, and the Shiley School of Engineering. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in nursing, business, and engineering.

Student Life

Student life at UP is dynamic and engaging, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The university’s campus features modern facilities and extensive green spaces, including views of the Willamette River. UP emphasizes spiritual growth, ethical leadership, and community service.

Unique Features

UP is known for its strong emphasis on faith integration and ethical leadership. The university’s Honors Program offers academically gifted students opportunities for advanced study and research. UP also has a strong commitment to global missions and community engagement.

Admissions

UP’s admissions process is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate typically around 75%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The university considers standardized test scores but also values holistic review.

Alumni

UP’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former Portland Mayor Sam Adams, business leader Mary S. Bonauto, and author and speaker Brian Doyle. UP graduates are known for their contributions to politics, business, and literature.

Willamette University

Overview

Willamette University, located in Salem, Oregon, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, civic engagement, and sustainability. Founded in 1842, Willamette is the oldest university in the Western United States.

History

Willamette University was established in 1842 by Jason Lee, a Methodist missionary, with the mission of providing education in the Oregon Territory. The university has a long history of promoting social justice and environmental stewardship.

Academic Offerings

Willamette offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its College of Liberal Arts, Atkinson Graduate School of Management, and College of Law. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in political science, environmental science, and law.

Student Life

Student life at Willamette is vibrant and diverse, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The university’s campus features historic buildings, modern facilities, and extensive green spaces. Willamette emphasizes community service and civic engagement.

Unique Features

Willamette is known for its strong emphasis on sustainability and social justice. The university’s Center for Sustainable Communities supports students in promoting environmental stewardship and sustainable practices. Willamette also has a strong commitment to community engagement and public service.

Admissions

Willamette’s admissions process is selective, with an acceptance rate typically around 78%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The university values students who demonstrate a commitment to social justice and environmental sustainability.

Alumni

Willamette’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former Oregon Governor Barbara Roberts, business leader Mark Hatfield, and author and speaker Ursula K. Le Guin. Willamette graduates are known for their contributions to politics, business, and literature.

Pacific University

Overview

Pacific University, located in Forest Grove, Oregon, is a private liberal arts university known for its strong emphasis on health professions, education, and the arts and sciences. Founded in 1849, Pacific offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Pacific University was established in 1849 by Congregationalist pioneers with the mission of providing education in the Oregon Territory. The university has grown significantly over the years, becoming a leading institution known for its commitment to health professions and community service.

Academic Offerings

Pacific offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various colleges, including the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Health Professions, the College of Optometry, and the College of Education. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in health professions, optometry, and education.

Student Life

Student life at Pacific is vibrant and engaging, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The university’s campus features modern facilities and extensive green spaces, including views of the Pacific Ocean. Pacific emphasizes community service and experiential learning.

Unique Features

Pacific is known for its strong emphasis on health professions and community service. The university’s Center for Civic Engagement supports students in promoting social justice and community service. Pacific also has a strong commitment to global missions and experiential learning.

Admissions

Pacific’s admissions process is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate typically around 85%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The university values holistic review and considers standardized test scores.

Alumni

Pacific’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former Oregon Governor Neil Goldschmidt, business leader Lisa Keohokalole, and author and speaker Jean Auel. Pacific graduates are known for their contributions to politics, business, and literature.

Linfield University

Overview

Linfield University, located in McMinnville, Oregon, is a private liberal arts university known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, community service, and sustainability. Founded in 1858, Linfield offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Linfield University was established in 1858 by the Baptist Church with the mission of providing education in the Oregon Territory. The university has grown significantly over the years, becoming a leading institution known for its commitment to social justice and environmental stewardship.

Academic Offerings

Linfield offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various schools and colleges, including the School of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business, and the School of Nursing. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in nursing, business, and environmental studies.

Student Life

Student life at Linfield is vibrant and diverse, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The university’s campus features historic buildings, modern facilities, and extensive green spaces. Linfield emphasizes community service and sustainability.

Unique Features

Linfield is known for its strong emphasis on sustainability and community engagement. The university’s Center for the Northwest supports students in promoting environmental stewardship and sustainable practices. Linfield also has a strong commitment to experiential learning and study abroad programs.

Admissions

Linfield’s admissions process is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate typically around 81%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The university values students who demonstrate a commitment to social justice and environmental sustainability.

Alumni

Linfield’s alumni network includes notable figures such as Pulitzer Prize-winning author Robert Hicks, former Oregon Governor Barbara Roberts, and business leader William Swindells. Linfield graduates are known for their contributions to politics, business, and literature.

George Fox University

Overview

George Fox University, located in Newberg, Oregon, is a private Christian university known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, faith integration, and community service. Founded in 1885, George Fox offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

George Fox University was established in 1885 by Quaker pioneers with the mission of providing education based on Christian principles. The university has grown significantly over the years, becoming a leading institution known for its commitment to faith-based education and community service.

Academic Offerings

George Fox offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various colleges, including the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business, the College of Education, and the College of Engineering. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in business, education, and engineering.

Student Life

Student life at George Fox is dynamic and engaging, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The university’s campus features modern facilities and extensive green spaces. George Fox emphasizes spiritual growth, ethical leadership, and community service.

Unique Features

George Fox is known for its strong emphasis on faith integration and ethical leadership. The university’s Honors Program offers academically gifted students opportunities for advanced study and research. George Fox also has a strong commitment to global missions and community engagement.

Admissions

George Fox’s admissions process is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate typically around 80%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The university values holistic review and considers standardized test scores.

Alumni

George Fox’s alumni network includes notable figures such as business leader William Paul Young, author of “The Shack,” former Oregon Governor Vic Atiyeh, and educator and speaker Brenda Salter McNeil. George Fox graduates are known for their contributions to politics, business, and education.

Warner Pacific University

Overview

Warner Pacific University, located in Portland, Oregon, is a private Christian liberal arts university known for its strong emphasis on social justice, community engagement, and academic excellence. Founded in 1937, Warner Pacific offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Warner Pacific University was established in 1937 by the Church of God (Anderson, Indiana) with the mission of providing education based on Christian principles. The university has grown significantly over the years, becoming a leading institution known for its commitment to social justice and community engagement.

Academic Offerings

Warner Pacific offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various schools and colleges, including the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business, the School of Education, and the School of Nursing. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in business, education, and nursing.

Student Life

Student life at Warner Pacific is vibrant and diverse, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The university’s campus features modern facilities and extensive green spaces. Warner Pacific emphasizes community service and social justice.

Unique Features

Warner Pacific is known for its strong emphasis on social justice and community engagement. The university’s Center for Justice and Peace supports students in promoting social justice and community service. Warner Pacific also has a strong commitment to experiential learning and global missions.

Admissions

Warner Pacific’s admissions process is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate typically around 75%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The university values holistic review and considers standardized test scores.

Alumni

Warner Pacific’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former Oregon Governor Tom McCall, business leader Roger Burt, and educator and speaker Lisa Sharon Harper. Warner Pacific graduates are known for their contributions to politics, business, and social justice.

Multnomah University

Overview

Multnomah University, located in Portland, Oregon, is a private Christian university known for its strong emphasis on biblical education, spiritual formation, and academic excellence. Founded in 1936, Multnomah offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Multnomah University was established in 1936 by Reverend John G. Mitchell with the mission of providing biblical education and training for Christian ministry. The university has grown significantly over the years, becoming a leading institution known for its commitment to biblical education and spiritual formation.

Academic Offerings

Multnomah offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various schools and colleges, including the School of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business, the School of Education, and the School of Bible and Theology. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in biblical studies, theology, and education.

Student Life

Student life at Multnomah is dynamic and engaging, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The university’s campus features modern facilities and extensive green spaces. Multnomah emphasizes spiritual growth, biblical education, and community service.

Unique Features

Multnomah is known for its strong emphasis on biblical education and spiritual formation. The university’s Center for Biblical and Theological Studies supports students in promoting biblical education and Christian ministry. Multnomah also has a strong commitment to global missions and community engagement.

Admissions

Multnomah’s admissions process is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate typically around 85%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The university values holistic review and considers standardized test scores.

Alumni

Multnomah’s alumni network includes notable figures such as author and speaker Randy Alcorn, business leader Mark Driscoll, and educator and speaker Josh McDowell. Multnomah graduates are known for their contributions to ministry, education, and business.

Corban University

Overview

Corban University, located in Salem, Oregon, is a private Christian university known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, biblical education, and community engagement. Founded in 1935, Corban offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Corban University was established in 1935 by the General Association of Regular Baptist Churches with the mission of providing biblical education and training for Christian ministry. The university has grown significantly over the years, becoming a leading institution known for its commitment to biblical education and community engagement.

Academic Offerings

Corban offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various schools and colleges, including the School of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business, the School of Education, and the School of Ministry. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in biblical studies, education, and business.

Student Life

Student life at Corban is vibrant and diverse, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The university’s campus features modern facilities and extensive green spaces. Corban emphasizes community service, biblical education, and spiritual growth.

Unique Features

Corban is known for its strong emphasis on biblical education and community engagement. The university’s Center for Ministry and Theology supports students in promoting biblical education and Christian ministry. Corban also has a strong commitment to experiential learning and global missions.

Admissions

Corban’s admissions process is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate typically around 77%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The university values holistic review and considers standardized test scores.

Alumni

Corban’s alumni network includes notable figures such as author and speaker John Piper, business leader James R. Hawkins, and educator and speaker Kay Arthur. Corban graduates are known for their contributions to ministry, education, and business.