Lewis & Clark College

With 29 majors and 38 minors, Lewis & Clark leans into classic liberal arts strengths—psychology, biology, and international studies top the popularity charts—while maintaining an average class size of 19 students. The 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures accessibility, and the absence of graduate TAs means undergrads get direct professor attention. The curriculum encourages interdisciplinary exploration, though some niche programs may lack depth due to the school’s small size. Notably, there’s no engineering or business major, reinforcing its humanities-heavy identity.

Life here is chill but not sleepy. With 68% of students living on campus, the vibe is residential and community-oriented, though Portland’s off-campus scene lures many away. There’s no Greek life, and parties are low-key—think dorm gatherings or hikes in the surrounding forests. Quirky clubs (like the Tiny House Club and a student-run campus beehive) thrive, reflecting the school’s eco-conscious, DIY spirit. Athletics are Division III and decidedly non-obsessive, though the Pioneers’ mascot nods to the school’s Pacific Northwest explorer namesakes.

The 74.3% six-year graduation rate outpaces many peers, and alumni earn a median $62,205 within 10 years—a strong ROI for a liberal arts college. However, early-career pay lags ($36,427 at the one-year mark), suggesting grads may take time to find footing. Retention is solid (89% of first-years return), but the four-year graduation rate (67%) reveals some students stretch their timeline—possibly due to the school’s study-abroad culture or Portland’s distractions. Notably, outcomes vary widely by major, with STEM and social science grads faring best.

Like many private liberal arts colleges, Lewis & Clark’s sticker price is steep, but merit aid starts at $24,000/year for all admitted students, and need-based grants further defray costs. 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 is a must-use tool—Portland’s high cost of living (off-campus housing, transit) can blindside budgeters. While the college meets 85% of demonstrated need on average, gaps remain, and some students report aid packages heavy on loans. For Oregon residents, state grants help, but out-of-staters should scrutinize aid offers closely.

Lewis & Clark doubles down on its Portland identity—think sustainability-focused, outdoorsy, and politically progressive—without succumbing to West Coast clichés. Its globally oriented programs (like international affairs) leverage the city’s cosmopolitanism, while the 12:1 faculty ratio ensures undergrads aren’t lost in the crowd. The low yield rate suggests it’s often a Plan B school, but for students seeking a close-knit academic community with easy access to urban adventures, it’s a compelling choice. Just budget carefully: those post-grad earnings take a few years to ramp up.