Higher Education Options for Hillsboro Residents
Hillsboro's growing population and strong technology economy create high demand for accessible, career-relevant higher education. Many residents want affordable pathways to in-demand jobs, while others seek a rigorous liberal arts experience or specialized training in health care, art, or natural medicine. Fortunately, Hillsboro sits within easy reach of excellent colleges across the Portland metro area, many accessible by MAX light rail or a short drive.
This guide focuses on colleges, including community colleges, liberal arts colleges, and specialized institutions. Universities are covered in a separate guide.
How We Ranked These Colleges
We considered academic quality, program variety, affordability, accessibility from Hillsboro, student support services, transfer pathways, career outcomes, and campus culture. We also evaluated flexibility for working adults, including evening, weekend, and online classes.
1. Portland Community College
Portland Community College is the largest higher education institution in Oregon and a vital resource for Hillsboro residents. Its Rock Creek Campus, located near Hillsboro, and its Willow Creek Center offer transfer degrees, career and technical programs, workforce training, and community education. Programs in microelectronics, computer science, nursing, and business are closely aligned with local employers. Affordable tuition and flexible scheduling make PCC an outstanding starting point.
2. Pacific University College of Health Professions
Pacific University's Hillsboro campus is home to its health professions programs, located near downtown Hillsboro and the MAX line. Programs in fields such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant studies, pharmacy, and psychology prepare students for rewarding health care careers. Hands-on clinical training and partnerships with regional health systems add significant value.
3. Reed College
Reed College in southeast Portland is a nationally recognized liberal arts college known for intellectual rigor, small seminar-style classes, and a required senior thesis. Its graduates frequently pursue advanced degrees and research careers. Reed is an excellent option for academically driven students seeking a challenging, discussion-based education.
4. Lewis and Clark College
Lewis and Clark College offers a respected liberal arts program set on a wooded campus in southwest Portland. It is especially known for international studies, environmental studies, and overseas programs. Its law school and graduate school of education and counseling also serve professionals in the region.
5. Clackamas Community College
Clackamas Community College in Oregon City provides career and technical training, transfer programs, and apprenticeships. Its strengths include manufacturing, automotive technology, and renewable energy programs, which appeal to Hillsboro residents interested in skilled trades.
6. Mt. Hood Community College
Mt. Hood Community College in Gresham is accessible via the MAX Blue Line from Hillsboro. It offers a broad range of transfer and career programs, including respected health professions and integrated media programs, along with affordable tuition and strong student support.
7. Chemeketa Community College
Chemeketa Community College, based in Salem with centers across the Willamette Valley, offers programs in agriculture, viticulture, fire protection, and health sciences. Its wine studies program connects naturally with the vineyards west and south of Hillsboro.
8. Pacific Northwest College of Art
Pacific Northwest College of Art in Portland's Pearl District offers art and design programs in illustration, graphic design, animation, and fine arts. Now part of Willamette University, it provides creative students with professional studio experience and connections to the region's vibrant creative industry.
9. National University of Natural Medicine
The National University of Natural Medicine in Portland is one of the oldest naturopathic medical schools in North America. It offers programs in naturopathic medicine, Chinese medicine, nutrition, and integrative health, appealing to students interested in holistic health care careers.
10. Concorde Career College
Concorde Career College offers focused health care training programs in the Portland area, including dental assisting, medical assisting, and respiratory therapy. Its accelerated programs and hands-on labs help students enter the workforce quickly.
College Trends Affecting Hillsboro Students
Colleges in the region are expanding programs linked to semiconductor manufacturing, health care, and clean energy. Short-term certificates and stackable credentials are growing in popularity, allowing students to gain skills quickly and return for further education later. Hybrid and online formats continue to expand, and dual-credit programs let high school students earn college credit early.
Tips for Choosing a College
Consider your career goals, budget, and preferred learning environment. Community colleges offer affordable foundations and transfer pathways, while liberal arts colleges provide intimate, discussion-driven learning. Ask about financial aid, scholarships, and Oregon Promise eligibility. Visit campuses and speak with advisors about transfer agreements and job placement support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transfer from PCC to a four-year university? Yes. PCC offers the Associate of Arts Oregon Transfer degree and other pathways designed to transfer smoothly to Oregon public universities.
Are there programs for working adults? Many colleges offer evening, weekend, and online classes, making it possible to earn credentials while working full time.
Final Thoughts
Hillsboro residents enjoy access to a diverse and high-quality set of colleges. Portland Community College and Pacific University offer convenient local options, Reed and Lewis and Clark deliver exceptional liberal arts educations, and specialized institutions open doors to art, natural medicine, and health care careers. With careful research, every student can find a college that matches their goals.