Oregon Community College numbers on the rise, but still below pre-pandemic levels
By Griffin Beach on Wednesday, November 26th, 2025 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
SALEM – Enrollment at Oregon’s community colleges continued to climb this fall, according to data released by the state’s Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC), but the numbers remain below pre-pandemic levels.
The HECC report showed a total headcount of 94,898 students at community colleges, marking a 3.7% increase over Fall 2024. Full-time equivalent enrollment also rose, reaching 22,671 students, a 3.5% jump from the same time last year.
“Rising enrollment highlights the essential role community colleges play in powering Oregon’s workforce,” said Dr. Abby Lee, Executive Director of the Oregon Community College Association. “Students are choosing pathways that lead to strong careers, and our colleges are committed to meeting that demand with accessible, high-quality programs that prepare Oregonians for the opportunities ahead.”
The report indicated that while enrollment has been rising steadily since 2022, the total headcount is still 14.5% lower and FTE enrollment is 11.2% lower compared to the last pre-pandemic numbers recorded in Fall 2019.
Community colleges experienced the steepest enrollment declines of any higher education sector during the pandemic, the report noted.
Photo: Blue Mountain Community College
