Overview
Portland State University was founded in 1946 as the Vanport Extension Center to serve World War II veterans returning under the GI Bill, and it grew into a full university by 1969. Located in the heart of downtown Portland, Oregon, PSU has built a strong reputation for urban studies, sustainability, public administration, and applied research that directly engages with the surrounding city. Its urban studies and planning programs are consistently ranked among the best in the nation, reflecting the institution's deep integration with municipal and regional issues.
At a Glance
| Type | Public Research |
| Location | Portland, Oregon |
| Founded | 1946 |
| Total students | 21,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 20:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 94% |
| Graduation rate | 51% |
| Average starting salary | $52,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $10,900 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $29,700 |
| Room & board | $13,500 |
| Average financial aid | $11,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 75% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 990-1220 |
| ACT range | 18-25 |
| Average GPA | 3.40 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Urban Studies & Planning
- Business Administration
- Social Work
- Engineering
- Public Administration
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.