| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Founded: 1946 (originally as Vanport Extension Center).
Location: Downtown Portland, Oregon.
Type: Public research university.
Campus Size: 50-acre urban campus in the heart of Portland.
Motto: "Let Knowledge Serve the City."
Accreditation: Accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
1. Academics
PSU offers more than 200 academic programs across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels.
Popular Fields of Study:
Business
Urban and Regional Planning
Engineering and Computer Science
Environmental Science and Sustainability
Social Work
Public Administration
Psychology and Education
Colleges and Schools:
School of Business
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Maseeh College of Engineering and Computer Science
School of Social Work
College of Urban and Public Affairs
College of Education
Research Strengths:
PSU is a leader in research related to urban planning, sustainability, social justice, and environmental science.
Designated as an "R2: Doctoral University – High Research Activity" by the Carnegie Classification.
2. Location and Urban Engagement
Located in downtown Portland, PSU is well-integrated with the city and provides opportunities for internships, research, and community engagement.
Portland is known for its vibrant culture, innovation, and sustainability initiatives, offering students exposure to real-world challenges and solutions.
3. Sustainability Leadership
PSU is a national leader in sustainability education and practices.
The university integrates sustainability into academics, operations, and community partnerships.
Recognition: Named one of the most environmentally friendly campuses by organizations like Princeton Review and Sierra Club.
4. Diversity and Inclusion
PSU has a diverse student body, with students from all 50 U.S. states and more than 90 countries.
Recognized as one of the most racially and ethnically diverse universities in Oregon.
Programs and centers like the Cultural Resource Centers and Global Diversity and Inclusion office promote equity and inclusion on campus.
5. Student Life
Over 150 student organizations and clubs, including academic, cultural, professional, and recreational groups.
Active campus life with events, concerts, and festivals, often held at the Park Blocks, a central green space on campus.
Modern facilities include the Viking Pavilion (sports and events arena), Millar Library, and recreational centers.
Undergraduate Admission Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalent.
Minimum GPA: 2.5–3.0 (varies by program).
SAT or ACT: Test-optional for most programs.
English Proficiency (for international students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 71.
IELTS: Minimum 6.0.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 110.
Graduate Admission Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
Minimum GPA: 3.0 (varies by program).
GRE/GMAT: Required for certain programs.
English Proficiency (for international students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80.
IELTS: Minimum 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 115.
PSU offers more than 200 undergraduate degree programs across its colleges and schools.
Business:
Accounting
Marketing
Finance
Supply Chain and Logistics Management
Engineering and Computer Science:
Civil Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Computer Science
Social Sciences:
Psychology
Sociology
Political Science
Anthropology
Health and Science:
Biology
Environmental Science and Management
Public Health
Physics
Liberal Arts and Humanities:
English
History
Philosophy
World Languages (Spanish, Japanese, Chinese, etc.)
Urban and Public Affairs:
Criminology and Criminal Justice
Urban Planning and Community Development
Creative Arts:
Architecture
Graphic Design
Music
Theater Arts
PSU is highly regarded for its graduate education, offering 100+ master’s degree programs in diverse fields.
School of Business:
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Science in Finance (MSF)
Master of Real Estate Development (MRED)
Maseeh College of Engineering and Computer Science:
MS in Computer Science
MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering
MS in Civil and Environmental Engineering
College of Urban and Public Affairs:
Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MURP)
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Master of Public Health (MPH)
Social Work and Education:
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Master of Education (MEd)
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences:
MA in Applied Linguistics
MS in Psychology
MS in Biology
Environmental Science:
MS in Environmental Science and Management
MS in Sustainability
Creative Arts and Design:
Master of Architecture (MArch)
MFA in Art Practice
MFA in Writing
PSU offers 20+ doctoral programs, with a focus on interdisciplinary research and advanced study.
PhD in Computer Science
PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering
PhD in Urban Studies
PhD in Public Affairs and Policy
PhD in Social Work and Social Research
PhD in Applied Psychology
PhD in Environmental Science and Management
EdD in Educational Leadership
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (Per Year in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Accounting (BS/BA) |
4 years |
In-State: ~$10,500 |
|
Marketing (BS/BA) |
4 years |
In-State: ~$10,500 |
|
Computer Science (BS) |
4 years |
In-State: ~$10,500 |
|
Civil Engineering (BS) |
4 years |
In-State: ~$10,500 |
|
Electrical Engineering (BS) |
4 years |
In-State: ~$10,500 |
|
Mechanical Engineering (BS) |
4 years |
In-State: ~$10,500 |
|
Psychology (BS/BA) |
4 years |
In-State: ~$10,500 |
|
Public Health (BS) |
4 years |
In-State: ~$10,500 |
|
Environmental Science (BS) |
4 years |
In-State: ~$10,500 |
|
Urban and Public Affairs (BS/BA) |
4 years |
In-State: ~$10,500 |
|
Criminology and Criminal Justice (BS) |
4 years |
In-State: ~$10,500 |
|
Biology (BS) |
4 years |
In-State: ~$10,500 |
|
English (BA) |
4 years |
In-State: ~$10,500 |
|
Architecture (BS) |
4 years |
In-State: ~$10,500 |
|
Graphic Design (BFA) |
4 years |
In-State: ~$10,500 |
|
Sociology (BS/BA) |
4 years |
In-State: ~$10,500 |
|
Political Science (BS/BA) |
4 years |
In-State: ~$10,500 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (Per Year in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
2 years |
In-State: ~$17,000 |
|
Master of Public Administration (MPA) |
2 years |
In-State: ~$16,000 |
|
Master of Science in Computer Science (MS) |
2 years |
In-State: ~$16,500 |
|
Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering (MEng) |
2 years |
In-State: ~$16,500 |
|
Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MURP) |
2 years |
In-State: ~$16,500 |
|
Master of Public Health (MPH) |
2 years |
In-State: ~$17,000 |
|
Master of Social Work (MSW) |
2-3 years |
In-State: ~$15,500 |
|
Master of Science in Finance (MSF) |
1.5–2 years |
In-State: ~$17,500 |
|
Master of Education (MEd) |
2 years |
In-State: ~$14,500 |
|
Master of Architecture (MArch) |
2–3 years |
In-State: ~$17,500 |
|
Master of Science in Environmental Science and Management (MS) |
2 years |
In-State: ~$16,500 |
|
Master of Science in Psychology (MS) |
2 years |
In-State: ~$16,000 |
|
Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing (MFA) |
2 years |
In-State: ~$14,500 |
|
Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering (MS) |
2 years |
In-State: ~$16,500 |
|
Master of Real Estate Development (MRED) |
2 years |
In-State: ~$17,000 |
|
Master of Science in Data Science (MS) |
2 years |
In-State: ~$16,500 |
|
Master of Arts in Sociology (MA) |
2 years |
In-State: ~$15,500 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (Per Year in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Computer Science |
4-6 years |
In-State: ~$16,500 |
|
PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering |
4-6 years |
In-State: ~$16,500 |
|
PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering |
4-6 years |
In-State: ~$16,500 |
|
PhD in Mechanical Engineering |
4-6 years |
In-State: ~$16,500 |
|
PhD in Environmental Science and Management |
4-6 years |
In-State: ~$16,500 |
|
PhD in Urban Studies |
4-6 years |
In-State: ~$16,500 |
|
PhD in Public Affairs and Policy |
4-6 years |
In-State: ~$16,500 |
|
PhD in Applied Psychology |
4-6 years |
In-State: ~$16,000 |
|
PhD in Social Work and Social Research |
4-6 years |
In-State: ~$15,500 |
|
PhD in Sociology |
4-6 years |
In-State: ~$15,500 |
|
PhD in Mathematics and Statistics |
4-6 years |
In-State: ~$16,000 |
|
PhD in Systems Science: Business Analytics |
4-6 years |
In-State: ~$16,500 |
|
PhD in Education Leadership and Policy (EdD) |
3-5 years |
In-State: ~$14,500 |
|
PhD in Chemistry |
4-6 years |
In-State: ~$16,000 |
|
PhD in Biology |
4-6 years |
In-State: ~$16,500 |
Urban Location in Portland, Oregon:
PSU is located in the heart of Portland, known for its vibrant culture, sustainability efforts, and innovative businesses.
The city offers ample opportunities for internships, networking, and employment in industries such as technology, healthcare, business, and the arts.
Diverse and Inclusive Community:
PSU is one of the most ethnically and culturally diverse universities in Oregon, making it a welcoming environment for international students.
Students have the opportunity to participate in cultural events, clubs, and activities that celebrate diversity.
Affordable Tuition:
PSU offers competitive tuition rates compared to other U.S. universities, making it an affordable choice for international students.
Strong Academic Programs:
PSU offers over 200 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in fields such as engineering, business, computer science, public health, and urban planning.
The university is recognized for its emphasis on sustainability, urban studies, and innovation.
Support Services for International Students:
Dedicated offices and programs, such as the Office of International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS), provide guidance on visas, cultural adjustment, and academic support.
Peer mentorship programs and workshops help international students transition to life in the U.S.
Step 1: Choose Your Program
Visit PSU’s official website to explore available undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs.
Review the program-specific requirements, deadlines, and prerequisites.
Step 2: Check Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admission Requirements:
Academic Records:
High school diploma or equivalent.
Minimum GPA:
2.5 or higher (on a 4.0 scale) for most programs.
International students: Equivalent qualifications to a U.S. high school diploma.
English Language Proficiency (International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 71.
IELTS: Minimum 6.0.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 110.
PSU also accepts proof of English proficiency via other exams or pathways, such as PSU’s Intensive English Language Program (IELP).
Optional:
SAT/ACT scores are not required but can be submitted for consideration.
Graduate Admission Requirements:
Academic Records:
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
Minimum GPA:
3.0 or higher (varies by program).
English Language Proficiency (International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80.
IELTS: Minimum 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 115.
Certain programs may have higher language proficiency requirements.
Standardized Tests:
GRE/GMAT (only required for specific programs like MBA or Computer Science).
Additional Documents:
Statement of Purpose (explaining academic goals and career plans).
Letters of Recommendation (typically 2-3).
Resume/CV (for professional or research-focused programs).
Doctoral Admission Requirements:
In addition to graduate requirements, doctoral programs may require:
A master’s degree (for some programs).
Research proposal or writing sample.
Prior research experience in the relevant field.
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
Official transcripts from all previous institutions (translated into English if necessary).
English proficiency test scores (for international students).
Standardized test scores (if required by the program).
Personal statement or essay (if applicable).
Letters of recommendation (for graduate and doctoral programs).
Copy of passport (for international students).
Financial documents to show proof of funding (for international students applying for F-1 visa).
Step 4: Complete the Online Application
Undergraduate Applicants:
Submit the application through PSU’s official portal: Undergraduate Admissions.
Graduate and Doctoral Applicants:
Submit the application through the PSU Graduate Admissions Portal: Graduate Admissions.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
Undergraduate Application Fee: $60 (non-refundable).
Graduate Application Fee: $65 (non-refundable).
Fee Waivers: Eligible students may apply for fee waivers by submitting a request.
Step 6: Submit Supplemental Applications (If Required)
Some programs, especially in business, engineering, social work, and urban planning, may require additional program-specific applications or materials.
Check the program’s website for specific instructions.
Step 7: Wait for Admission Decision
Once all materials have been submitted, PSU will evaluate the application. This process typically takes:
Undergraduate Programs: 2–4 weeks.
Graduate Programs: 4–8 weeks, depending on the program.
Admission decisions will be communicated via email and the application portal.
Step 8: Confirm Your Enrollment
After receiving an admission offer:
Undergraduate Students: Pay the $200 enrollment confirmation deposit to secure your spot.
Graduate Students: Follow the instructions provided in the acceptance email to confirm your intent to enroll.
Step 9: Apply for Visa (International Students Only)
PSU will issue the I-20 form to international students after receiving proof of funding and payment of the confirmation deposit.
Use the I-20 form to apply for an F-1 student visa at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Step 10: Prepare for Arrival
Register for PSU’s International Student Orientation to learn about campus life, academic expectations, and immigration requirements.
Arrange for housing and transportation.
Review PSU’s pre-arrival checklist for new students.
PSU follows a quarter-based academic calendar, offering four intakes throughout the year:
Intake Period |
Start Month |
Application Deadlines |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Semester (Primary Intake) |
September |
Undergraduate: July 1 |
|
Winter Semester |
January |
Undergraduate: November 1 |
|
Spring Semester |
March |
Undergraduate: February 1 |
|
Summer Semester |
June |
Undergraduate: May 1 |
Note:
Most undergraduate and graduate programs admit students for the Fall intake as it is the primary and most popular start time.
Not all programs accept applications for winter, spring, or summer semesters. It’s recommended to check program-specific deadlines for graduate studies.
The eligibility requirements vary depending on the program level (undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral) and student type (domestic or international). Below are the general criteria:
Academic Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalent from an accredited institution.
Minimum GPA:
2.5 on a 4.0 scale for most programs.
Higher GPAs may be required for competitive programs like engineering or business.
English Language Proficiency (for International Students): International students must demonstrate proficiency in English through one of the following tests:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 71.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 110.
IELP Pathway: Students not meeting the English requirement may join PSU’s Intensive English Language Program (IELP) and progress to a degree program after achieving the required language skills.
Optional:
SAT/ACT Scores: PSU is test-optional for undergraduate programs. Students may choose to submit SAT/ACT scores to strengthen their application.
Academic Requirements:
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (or equivalent for international students).
Minimum GPA:
Typically 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, though some programs may require a higher GPA.
English Language Proficiency (for International Students): International students must meet PSU’s English requirements:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 115.
Standardized Test Scores (Program-Specific):
GRE/GMAT: Required for some programs, such as the Master of Business Administration (MBA) or Master of Science in Computer Science.
Program-specific minimum scores may vary.
Additional Documents:
Statement of Purpose (explaining academic goals and career aspirations).
Letters of Recommendation (usually 2–3, depending on the program).
Resume/CV (for professional or research-focused programs).
Academic Requirements:
Master’s degree in a related field (for some programs, a bachelor’s degree is sufficient if the applicant has strong academic and research credentials).
Minimum GPA:
Typically 3.0–3.5 on a 4.0 scale.
Research Background:
Previous research experience is preferred for PhD programs.
Some programs may require submission of a research proposal or sample of academic writing.
English Language Proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80–90, depending on the program.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5–7.0, depending on the program.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 115–120.
GRE/GMAT:
Required for some doctoral programs, particularly in engineering, computer science, business, and sciences.
Additional Documents:
Academic transcripts.
Statement of Purpose or research proposal.
Letters of Recommendation (typically 3).
Resume/CV highlighting research and academic accomplishments.
Ranking System |
Ranking/Rating |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not globally ranked, but recognized regionally for sustainability and urban engagement. |
|
US News & World Report (National Universities) |
Ranked among the top 300–350 universities in the USA. |
|
US News (Top Public Schools) |
Ranked in the top 120 public universities in the USA. |
|
US News (Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs - Non-Doctoral) |
Ranked among the top 100 in the USA for undergraduate engineering programs. |
|
US News (Best Graduate Urban Policy Programs) |
Ranked in the top 20 in the USA. |
|
US News (Best Graduate Public Affairs Programs) |
Ranked in the top 50 in the USA. |
|
US News (Social Work Graduate Programs) |
Ranked in the top 50 social work programs in the USA. |
|
Times Higher Education (World University Rankings) |
Not globally ranked but acknowledged for its regional impact and research contributions. |
|
Princeton Review (Green Schools Ranking) |
Consistently ranked as one of the most environmentally friendly universities in the USA. |
|
Shanghai Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) |
Not globally ranked but recognized for contributions to urban studies and sustainability. |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD) |
Applicable Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
|
International Achievement Scholarship |
For international undergraduate and graduate students with outstanding academic performance. |
$4,500–$6,000/year |
Undergraduate and Graduate Programs |
|
Out-of-State Opportunity Scholarship |
For out-of-state and international undergraduate students; based on academic achievement. |
Up to $6,000/year |
Undergraduate Programs |
|
Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) |
For students from WUE participating states (U.S. only); must meet GPA requirements. |
Reduced tuition (approx. 150% of in-state tuition) |
Undergraduate Programs |
|
Maseeh College of Engineering & Computer Science Scholarships |
For engineering and computer science students; based on merit and financial need. |
$1,000–$5,000/year |
Undergraduate and Graduate Engineering Programs |
|
Graduate Assistantships |
For graduate students; includes tuition waivers and stipends for teaching or research assistant roles. |
Tuition waiver + $15,000–$25,000 stipend/year |
Graduate and PhD Programs |
|
PSU Foundation Scholarships |
Multiple scholarships funded by alumni and donors; awarded for academic excellence and financial need. |
(typically $1,000–$5,000/year) |
Undergraduate and Graduate Programs |
|
Transfer Student Scholarships |
For transfer students with strong academic records (minimum 3.25 GPA). |
$2,000–$6,000/year |
Undergraduate Programs |
|
President’s Equal Access Scholarship |
For undergraduate students with financial need; supports diverse and underrepresented populations. |
$6,000/year |
Undergraduate Programs |
|
Urban and Public Affairs Scholarships |
For students in public administration, urban studies, or planning programs. |
$1,000–$5,000/year |
Graduate Programs in Urban Studies/Public Affairs |
|
School of Business Scholarships |
For business students; awarded based on merit, leadership, and community involvement. |
$1,000–$5,000/year |
Undergraduate and Graduate Business Programs |
|
Diversity Scholarships |
For students from diverse or underrepresented backgrounds who demonstrate leadership and academic promise. |
$1,000–$4,500/year |
Undergraduate and Graduate Programs |
|
Honors College Scholarships |
For high-achieving students accepted into PSU’s Honors College. |
$1,000–$5,000/year |
Undergraduate Programs |
|
International Cultural Service Program (ICSP) Scholarship |
For international students who contribute cultural and language presentations to the community. |
Partial Tuition Waiver |
Undergraduate and Graduate Programs |
|
Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship |
For transfer students who are members of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. |
$2,000/year |
Undergraduate Programs |
|
Athletic Scholarships |
For student-athletes with exceptional talent; based on coach recommendation. |
(up to full tuition) |
Undergraduate Programs |
Accommodation Type |
Description |
Features |
Cost Per Month (USD) |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Broadway Residence Hall |
On-campus dormitory-style housing for undergraduate students. |
Fully furnished; private bathrooms; shared kitchens; fitness center. |
$950–$1,200 |
$11,400–$14,400 |
|
Ondine Residence Hall |
On-campus housing for first-year and upper-division students. |
Fully furnished; meal plan required; laundry facilities; study areas. |
$800–$1,100 (without meal plan) |
$9,600–$13,200 (without meal plan) |
|
Epler Residence Hall |
Apartment-style on-campus housing for upper-division and graduate students. |
Studio and one-bedroom apartments; private kitchen and bathroom. |
$1,200–$1,400 |
$14,400–$16,800 |
|
Blumel Hall |
On-campus apartment-style housing for upper-division and graduate students. |
Furnished studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments; private kitchen and bathroom. |
$1,100–$1,500 |
$13,200–$18,000 |
|
Montgomery Court Apartments |
Historical, apartment-style housing close to campus. |
Studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom options; pet-friendly; utilities included. |
$1,000–$1,400 |
$12,000–$16,800 |
|
Parkway Residence Hall |
Affordable housing for graduate and international students. |
Shared and private rooms; furnished; utilities included. |
$850–$1,300 |
$10,200–$15,600 |
|
St. Helens Residence Hall |
Apartment-style housing for students seeking quieter living options. |
Studio and one-bedroom apartments; private kitchens; utilities included. |
$1,100–$1,400 |
$13,200–$16,800 |
|
Off-Campus Apartments |
Private housing near the PSU campus. |
Proximity to campus; range of options (studios to multi-bedroom apartments); utilities not included. |
$1,000–$1,800 |
$12,000–$21,600 |
|
Family Housing (Stephen Epler Hall) |
Family-friendly housing for students with dependents. |
Two-bedroom apartments; fully furnished; utilities included. |
$1,500–$1,800 |
$18,000–$21,600 |
1. Academic and Campus Environment
Urban Setting: PSU’s location in downtown Portland provides students with access to real-world experiences, internships, and networking opportunities with businesses, non-profits, and government organizations.
Innovative Education:
PSU is known for its emphasis on sustainability, community engagement, and interdisciplinary learning.
Unique programs like the University Studies general education curriculum encourage critical thinking and collaboration.
State-of-the-Art Facilities:
Millar Library: PSU’s main library offers 24/7 study spaces, research resources, and group study rooms.
Karl Miller Center: Home to the School of Business, featuring modern classrooms and sustainable architecture.
Recreation Center: Offers a gym, climbing wall, swimming pool, and fitness classes.
2. Clubs and Organizations
PSU has over 150 student organizations and clubs, catering to a wide range of interests:
Academic and Professional Clubs:
Engineering and computer science groups, pre-med and pre-law societies, and business associations.
Cultural and International Clubs:
Organizations such as the International Student Club (ISC), Latinx Student Union, and African Student Association celebrate diversity and foster cultural exchange.
Creative and Performing Arts:
Opportunities in theater, music, and visual arts, including student-run productions and art exhibits.
Special Interest Groups:
Gaming clubs, environmental sustainability groups, and hobby-based organizations like the photography and gardening clubs.
3. Recreation and Sports
Campus Recreation Center:
Features a fitness center, climbing wall, indoor track, basketball courts, and group exercise classes (yoga, Zumba, etc.).
Outdoor Programs:
Students can participate in hiking, kayaking, skiing, and other outdoor activities organized by PSU’s Outdoor Program.
Portland’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean, Mount Hood, and Columbia River Gorge makes it an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.
Intramural and Club Sports:
Includes soccer, basketball, volleyball, ultimate frisbee, and more.
Varsity Athletics (Vikings):
PSU competes in NCAA Division I as part of the Big Sky Conference, with teams in basketball, football, soccer, and track.
4. Cultural and Social Events
PSU hosts a variety of events throughout the year to engage students and celebrate diversity:
International Night:
A cultural showcase featuring performances, food, and traditions from around the world.
Party in the Park:
A welcome-back event with music, food, and opportunities to connect with campus organizations.
Portland Farmers Market:
Held on campus every Saturday, offering fresh local produce, artisan goods, and street food.
Speakers and Performances:
PSU invites prominent speakers, musicians, and performers to campus.
5. Housing and Community
On-Campus Housing:
PSU offers a range of housing options, including dormitories and apartment-style living.
Residence halls like Broadway and Ondine create a vibrant community with events and activities for residents.
Off-Campus Housing:
Many students live in nearby neighborhoods such as Goose Hollow, South Waterfront, and Downtown Portland, which are connected to campus by public transportation.
6. International Student Support
Office of International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS):
Provides visa support, cultural adjustment assistance, and workshops for international students.
Cultural Exchange:
Programs like the International Cultural Service Program (ICSP) allow students to share their culture while engaging with the PSU community.
English Language Support:
PSU offers resources such as the Intensive English Language Program (IELP) to help international students improve their language skills.
7. Sustainability and Community Engagement
Sustainability Initiatives:
PSU is recognized as one of the most eco-friendly universities in the U.S., with LEED-certified buildings, a bike-friendly campus, and student-run sustainability projects.
Community Service:
Students can participate in volunteer programs and service-learning projects through PSU’s partnerships with local organizations.
Green Campus Life:
Opportunities for students to engage in urban gardening, waste reduction programs, and energy efficiency initiatives.
8. Career Development and Internships
Career Services:
PSU’s Career Center offers resume workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs.
Internships:
Students benefit from PSU’s location in Portland, gaining access to internships in sectors like technology, healthcare, business, public policy, and the arts.
Mentorship Programs:
PSU connects students with alumni and professionals for guidance on career development.
9. Dining and Food Options
On-Campus Dining:
Options include dining halls, cafes, and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, including vegan and vegetarian options.
Farmers Market:
The Saturday market on campus is a popular spot for fresh food and local treats.
Portland’s Food Scene:
Portland is known for its vibrant culinary culture, with food carts, cafes, and restaurants offering global cuisines just steps away from campus.
10. Transportation
Public Transportation:
PSU is well-connected to Portland’s public transit system (TriMet), including buses, MAX light rail, and streetcars.
Students can purchase discounted transportation passes.
Bike-Friendly Campus:
PSU offers bike parking and repair stations, with many students choosing cycling as their primary mode of transport.
1. Employment Outcomes and Industries
PSU graduates are highly employable, with many finding opportunities in prominent companies, non-profits, government agencies, and startups. Key industries where PSU graduates are placed include:
Technology: Companies like Intel, Tektronix, Google, and Amazon hire graduates from engineering and computer science programs.
Business and Finance: Firms such as Nike, Adidas, Daimler Trucks North America, and Columbia Sportswear recruit business graduates.
Public Administration and Urban Planning: Graduates often work with government agencies like the City of Portland, Oregon Department of Transportation, and Metro Regional Government.
Healthcare: Alumni work at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Kaiser Permanente, Legacy Health, and Providence Health.
Environmental and Sustainability Fields: Graduates are employed by non-profits and companies focused on green energy, urban planning, and sustainability.
Education and Social Work: Many find roles in public schools, community organizations, and social service agencies.
2. Internship and Job Placement Support
Internships:
Access to Internships: PSU’s location in Portland provides a significant advantage for students to secure internships with local companies, non-profits, and government agencies.
Internship Requirement: Some programs (e.g., Business Administration, Urban Planning) require students to complete internships as part of their curriculum.
Internship Partners: Companies like Intel, Nike, Google, and non-profits like Mercy Corps regularly host PSU students as interns.
Career Services and Placement Support:
PSU’s Career Center provides comprehensive support to students and alumni:
Job and Internship Postings:
PSU’s Handshake platform connects students with employers for job and internship opportunities.
Career Fairs:
PSU hosts several job fairs throughout the year, including an Engineering and Technology Career Fair and an All Majors Career Fair, where students can meet recruiters and network.
Workshops and Resources:
Resume writing, cover letter guidance, interview preparation, and career exploration workshops are available.
One-on-One Advising:
Career advisors help students create tailored career plans, identify opportunities, and build professional networks.
3. Employer Partnerships
Portland State University has strong ties to local and regional employers, which helps facilitate placements for students. Key employer partnerships include:
Intel Corporation: PSU graduates frequently secure jobs in engineering, data analysis, and technology-related roles.
Nike and Adidas: Offer positions in business, marketing, supply chain, and finance.
Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU): One of the largest employers of PSU graduates in healthcare and research fields.
City of Portland: Hires graduates in urban planning, sustainability, public affairs, and public administration.
Columbia Sportswear: Recruits students in business, marketing, and product development.
Daimler Trucks North America: Provides roles for engineering and business graduates.
4. Placement Statistics
While placement rates vary by program and year, the following is a general overview of PSU’s graduate outcomes:
Undergraduate Programs:
Around 85% of graduates secure employment or enroll in graduate programs within six months of graduation.
Top-performing programs include Engineering, Business Administration, and Computer Science.
Graduate Programs:
93% of graduate students find employment or continue in academia (e.g., PhD programs) within six months of completing their degree.
High-demand programs include MBA, Public Administration, and Environmental Science.
Average Starting Salaries:
Undergraduates: ~$50,000–$65,000 per year (depending on the field and location).
Graduate Students: ~$65,000–$90,000 per year (higher for STEM and business graduates).
5. Popular Programs with Strong Placement Records
Maseeh College of Engineering and Computer Science:
Engineering and Computer Science graduates are highly sought after by tech companies such as Intel, Google, Amazon, and smaller tech startups in Portland’s Silicon Forest.
Placement Rate: ~90% within six months.
School of Business:
Business graduates secure roles in marketing, supply chain management, finance, and management with companies like Nike, Columbia Sportswear, and local startups.
Placement Rate: ~85% within six months.
College of Urban and Public Affairs:
Urban planning and public administration students often secure positions in government and non-profits in Portland and surrounding areas.
Placement Rate: ~90% within six months.
Social Work and Education:
Graduates from social work and education programs are placed in schools, hospitals, and community organizations across the Pacific Northwest.
Placement Rate: ~80–85%.
Environmental Science and Sustainability:
Graduates secure roles in environmental consulting, non-profits, and government agencies focused on sustainability and urban planning.
Placement Rate: ~88%.
6. Career Support for International Students
PSU offers dedicated support for international students through its International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) and Career Center:
OPT and CPT Guidance:
Assistance with Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT), allowing international students to gain work experience in the U.S. after graduation.
Job Search Workshops:
Specialized workshops on resume building, networking, and interview techniques for international students.
Global Career Opportunities:
International students often secure roles in their home countries after completing their degrees at PSU, leveraging their U.S. education.
7. Key Tools and Resources
Handshake Platform:
PSU’s job and internship portal where students can apply for opportunities with local and global employers.
PSU Alumni Network:
Graduates benefit from PSU’s strong alumni network for mentorship and career connections.
Professional Development Events:
PSU organizes industry-specific events, networking sessions, and panel discussions to connect students with professionals in their fields.
8. Student Testimonials
Many PSU alumni credit their success to the university’s strong academic foundation and hands-on learning opportunities:
"My internship with Intel, facilitated through PSU, turned into a full-time job offer after graduation." — PSU Engineering Graduate.
"The Career Center helped me polish my resume and land a position with Nike in their marketing team." — PSU Business Graduate.
"The professors in the Urban Planning program connected me with the City of Portland, where I now work in public policy." — PSU Urban Studies Graduate.
High Accessibility:
PSU has a mission to provide quality education to a wide range of students, including those from underrepresented communities, first-generation college students, and international students.
Application Requirements:
While PSU has a high acceptance rate, applicants must meet specific academic and English proficiency requirements for admission.
Program-Specific Selectivity:
Some programs at PSU (e.g., Engineering, Computer Science, MBA, and Urban Planning) may have more competitive admissions compared to other fields due to limited capacity and higher demand.
International Students:
PSU is welcoming to international students and provides strong support services. The high acceptance rate applies to qualified international applicants who meet the required academic and English proficiency standards.
PSU’s high acceptance rate does not mean a lack of quality. Instead, it reflects its commitment to providing higher education opportunities to a broad range of students.
The university emphasizes student support and retention, with resources in place to help students succeed academically, socially, and professionally.
Portland State University
1825 SW Broadway
Portland, OR 97201
United States
