Acceptance Rate
91%
“Portland State University blends urban energy with hands-on learning in the heart of Oregon's creative hub.”
Portland, OR
Location
Large City
Campus Setting
Nestled in downtown Portland, Oregon, Portland State University (PSU) stands out as a public institution deeply tied to the city’s progressive and innovative spirit. Founded in 1946 to serve returning World War II veterans, PSU has evolved into a dynamic urban university with over 21,000 undergraduates, reflecting a mission to provide accessible education. Its location means you’re not just on a campus but woven into the fabric of a bustling city known for its artsy vibe, eco-conscious ethos, and thriving food scene, from food carts to indie coffee shops.
What kind of student thrives here? If you’re independent, curious, and eager to engage with real-world issues, PSU could be your place—think of yourself as someone who’d jump at internships or community projects downtown. The school attracts a diverse mix of commuters, non-traditional students, and first-generation college-goers, so you’ll find a grounded, practical atmosphere rather than a bubble-like campus feel. One tradeoff is that the urban setting lacks the traditional, enclosed college experience—there’s no sprawling quad or tight-knit dorm culture to anchor you if you crave that classic university vibe.
Another consideration is the city’s climate and cost. Portland’s frequent rain and gray skies can weigh on some students, especially if you’re not used to damp winters. Living expenses in the area can also stretch budgets, as housing and daily costs reflect the city’s growing popularity, even with in-state tuition at a reasonable $8,400 compared to $26,040 for out-of-state students.
Photo Gallery
+7
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Available Online
Degree Levels Offered
Portland State University shines in programs that connect classroom learning to real-world application, particularly in sustainability, urban studies, and social work. You’ll find a strong emphasis on environmental innovation here, with the School of the Environment leading research on climate resilience and green urban planning—perfect if you’re passionate about tackling global challenges. The university also offers robust business and engineering programs, often paired with local industry partnerships, so expect opportunities to work on projects with tangible impact while still in school.
Classroom experiences vary widely due to PSU’s size and urban focus. Many introductory courses can feel large and impersonal, especially in popular fields, but upper-level classes often shrink down, letting you build closer ties with professors who are active in their industries. Research and internships are accessible even as an undergrad, though you might need to be proactive to snag competitive spots in high-demand areas like tech or design. A potential downside is that advising and resources can sometimes feel stretched thin with such a large student body, so staying on top of your academic path takes initiative.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
15,414 undergrad • 4,537 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
49%
Black / African American
4%
Hispanic / Latino
19%
Asian
9%
Other / Multi-racial
19%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
Portland, OR
Varsity Athletics
NCAA Athletics
Campus life at PSU is shaped by its urban setting and commuter-heavy student body, creating a different rhythm than a traditional college town. You won’t find sprawling football games or a rah-rah school spirit, but instead a practical, get-things-done energy where students balance classes with jobs or internships downtown. Social life often spills into Portland itself—think exploring Saturday Market, catching live music at local venues, or joining student-led initiatives around sustainability and community advocacy that reflect the city’s values.
Housing and community present some challenges to navigate. Many students live off-campus due to limited dorm options, which can make forging close friendships trickier if you’re not proactive about joining clubs or events. The wet, overcast weather is another factor; it’s not uncommon for the drizzle to dampen outdoor plans, pushing social activities indoors. Still, if you’re drawn to a laid-back, creative scene with access to nature—think hikes in Forest Park or quick trips to the Oregon Coast—PSU’s location offers a unique backdrop for your college years.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
Big Sky Conference
ROTC & Veteran Support
Army
Yes
Navy
No
Air Force
No
Veteran’s Programs Available
Yellow Ribbon Program (Post-9/11 GI Bill)
Yes
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Recognized student veteran organization
Yes
Member of DoD Voluntary Educational Partnership MOU
Yes
Cost & Aid
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Room & Board
Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
Students Receiving Aid
Receiving Pell Grants
Average Grant
Average Federal Loan
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Outcomes & Earnings
Retention Rate
76%
4 Years Graduation Rate
42%
6 Years Graduation Rate
55%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$57,906
76% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at Portland State University and return in the fall. 42% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 55% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
42%
4-5 years
13%
6-8 years
2%
Non-grad
43%
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Key Statistics
Type
Public
Tuition
$8,400
Acceptance
91%
Undergrads
15,414
4-Year Grad Rate
42%
Endowment
$112M
Portland, OR 97201
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