Linfield University

Nursing dominates Linfield's academic identity—it's the only major singled out in rankings (Niche names it a top program) and a Reddit thread cites it as the most popular. Beyond healthcare, psychology, exercise science, and education round out the top majors. The 10:1 student-faculty ratio enables seminar-style classes, and a required core curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and communication through roughly one-third of coursework. While the catalog lists traditional liberal arts offerings, the program mix skews practical: business and health professions outnumber humanities majors like English (2% of degrees) and math.

Life orbits around Division III athletics (Wildcats compete in the NWC) and 40+ student orgs, including a student-run newspaper. The Multicultural Center serves as a hub for identity-based groups, while ASLU (student government) funds events ranging from cultural celebrations to guest lectures. Housing is traditional—61% live on campus, mostly in dorms like the substance-free theme hall. Greek life exists but doesn't dominate, with four sororities and an unspecified number of fraternities. McMinnville's sleepy vibe means students describe summers as "calm and quiet" outside sports camps, fostering a tight-knit community.

Linfield boasts Oregon's highest median earnings among liberal arts colleges ($69,076 alumni salary), with a 68% six-year graduation rate (71% for Pell recipients). Nursing likely drives these numbers, though the broader 90.9% first-year retention rate suggests strong student satisfaction. The university emphasizes "value" in marketing, and data backs this: graduates out-earn peers at 80% of Oregon schools. Notably, outcomes improve over time—the five-year graduation rate (64%) jumps to 67% by year six, hinting at support for late bloomers.

After aid, the average net price drops to $31,462, with 77% of students receiving assistance (average package: $48,073). The Net Price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. Calculator hints at need-aware policies, though merit aid?Merit aidScholarship money awarded for achievements like grades, talents, or test scores — not based on your family's financial need. is clearly substantial—the average aid package exceeds the sticker price, suggesting scholarships for high-achievers. Deadlines favor planners (February 1 for priority) but awards roll out starting April 15. Notably, Linfield's aid office promotes the Paquet Scholarship, a competitive award for underrepresented students.

Linfield defies the "small liberal arts college" stereotype by marrying accessibility (85% admit rate) with strong ROI (top Oregon earnings). Its nursing program is the star, but the real differentiator is scale—with just 388 first-years, students get D-III school spirit and professor access rare at similarly priced privates. The wine-country location (30+ vineyards nearby) and quirky traditions (the "Oak Leaf" rivalry with Pacific University) foster camaraderie. For West Coasters seeking a supportive, outcomes-focused education without cutthroat competition, Linfield delivers.