Portland, Oregon’s largest city with a metro area population of over 2 million, was Money magazine’s 2000 pick for “Best Big City” – and for good reasons! With a lively cultural scene, excellent public schools, and abundant activities, Portland offers its residents a unique and rewarding lifestyle. The city is tucked beneath a forested ridge near the banks of the Willamette River, a few miles from the confluence of the Columbia River, about an hour from the beach or the mountains.

 Called both the “City of Bridges” and the “City of Roses,” Portland is a great place to live and study. One important factor contributing to livability is when compared to both the Los Angeles area and the San Francisco Bay Area; Portland has a significantly lower cost of living. And because WSCC is located in a pleasant residential neighborhood, students find affordable and safe housing near the WSCC campus.

 In addition to the premier biking and running trails within the city limits, it’s an easy drive to year-round skiing on Mt. Hood, wind surfing in the Columbia River Gorge, or hiking and playing in at the spectacular Oregon Coast. Within Portland can be found a world class symphony, ballet, opera, art museum, and zoo, and dozens of theaters, galleries, bookstores and music spots. Portland is home to a state university, three health science institutions, and nine liberal arts colleges. At WSCC and in Portland, you will be at home in the best possible environment.