The future of higher education in Oregon looks to be declining enrollment. The future of students in higher education looks to be increasing costs.

Enrollment at Oregon’s colleges and community colleges actually increased by about 3%, from fall 2023 to fall 2024. Over the long term, that is not the way enrollment in higher education is expected to go. There was a decline in birth rates after 2008. More people are questioning the value of higher education. More employers are not requiring college degrees. And, of course, there’s the cost.

As was reported in The Bulletin, there have been “increases in tuition costs at every Oregon university every year for the last decade.” Tuition costs are expected to rise again by 3% to 5% next year.

This being budget time for the Legislature, the question is: How much will the state support higher education?

Oregon has done relatively well in its state and local support per full-time student at community colleges. It contributes about $11,400, putting it at 18th in the nation. That’s a 2023 benchmark.

Oregon has not been doing relatively well in its state and local support per full-time student at public universities. It contributes $6,451, putting Oregon at 44th among all states.

The story of Oregon’s investment in higher education is a steady retreat. Twenty-five years ago the state used to pick up about 75% of a student’s cost of higher education. Now it’s about 50% or less.

Among the many things to prioritize, Oregon legislators don’t pick higher education.