Hello InfoQuestMom: I agree with everything coffee2022 wrote. UOregon is more focused on social sciences, but also has things like a strong business, journalism, and architecture programs (and offers STEM fields.) OSU has more of a tech focus, with engineering, agriculture, and a vet program, but of course, has social science majors as well. So, the better fit school may depends on major. Generally speaking UOregon is the state’s flagship school, and overall, is higher ranked, but each school has its own specific strengths. I believe that OSU is part of the WUE program, so OOS tuition could really be reduced if your student got into that (it’s competitive). UOregon does not participate in the WUE program – they get plenty of OOS applicants and do not feel they need to offer WUE to be competitive.
The communities of Corvallis and Eugene are only 30 minutes away from one another, but as coffee2022 mentioned, Eugene is larger (around 200,000?) and it has a more cosmopolitan and liberal feel to it. Corvallis, in contrast, is smaller (around 50,000?), and seems more “country” and conservative, although I think it has a really cute small downtown area.
Both schools are well-regarded in the Pacific Northwest. Both are Pac-12 schools. I have friends on the faculty at both schools, and they have enjoyed being there for years. I know students at both schools: one is interested in fisheries, so went to OSU. My daughter is interested in architecture, so went to UO. The decision was clear, in large part based on major!
Have you thought about Portland State University? They have Pre-Nursing and do lots of cross programs with OHSU, which is the premier teaching and research hospital in Portland.
We live in Portland (my student’s an 11th grader) And Portland (imo) is very LGBTQ friendly.
Just toured Pacific Lutheran in Tacoma. They have a nursing program (not our focus so would need to seek details on that). Performing arts (theatre and music) definitely valued. Campus programs with strong reputation are community events drawing from a wide area and the campus has very nice performing arts spaces (yes, plural!). Many references to non-binary on the tour so seems very integrated part of campus. Campus is also very multi-cultural - multiple language centered dorms for native speakers and non-native speakers seeking language immersion while on campus. Very high on student involvement, no matter ones interest. Great athletics with supportive student fan base, student supported performing arts, very active outdoor program offers weekly events, significant study abroad opportunities. Campus is wooded, environmentally focused and suburban (surrounding area is quiet), situated 20 minute drive from Old Town Tacoma, Tacoma Dome (Concerts) and the Bay. Our sophomore guide was awesome, heavily involved and also very down-to-earth. He had plans to attend a friend’s play, cheer on the Lutes in upcoming NCAA soccer tournament and will be studying in Oxford for the spring semester.