Portland State University (PSU) is a public research university located in downtown Portland, Oregon. It was founded in 1946 and is the largest (after Oregon State University) and most diverse university in Oregon, with over 26,000 students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs. PSU is known for its commitment to sustainability and community engagement, and it is classified as a Doctoral University – Higher Research Activity by the Carnegie Foundation.
PSU offers over 200 undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs across its seven schools and colleges, including the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the School of Business Administration, and the Graduate School of Education. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in sustainability, urban planning, public administration, and social work. PSU has a strong emphasis on experiential learning, with opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience through internships, service-learning projects, and research collaborations with faculty.
The campus is located in the heart of downtown Portland, with easy access to public transportation, shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. PSU has a vibrant student life, with over 300 student organizations, clubs, and sports teams. The university also hosts numerous events and activities throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, festivals, and art exhibitions.
PSU is committed to making higher education accessible and affordable for all students, regardless of their financial background. The university offers a range of scholarships, grants, and loans to help students pay for their education, as well as academic and career counseling services to support their success.

Portland State University (Wikimedia)
To know more about Portland State University, let’s take a look at these 41 interesting facts about Portland State University.
- Portland State University was founded in 1946 as the Vanport Extension Center, serving World War II veterans who were living in temporary housing in Vanport City.
- In 1955, the school was renamed Portland State College and became a four-year institution.
- In 1969, Portland State College became Portland State University.
- The university is located in the heart of downtown Portland, Oregon.
- The campus covers 50 acres and includes more than 70 buildings.
- PSU is a member of the Oregon University System and is governed by the PSU Board of Trustees.
- The university has seven schools and colleges: the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business, the Graduate School of Education, the Maseeh College of Engineering and Computer Science, the College of the Arts, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and the School of Social Work.
- PSU is classified as a Doctoral University – Higher Research Activity by the Carnegie Foundation.
- The university offers more than 200 undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs.
- PSU has a strong commitment to sustainability and is one of the most sustainable universities in the United States.
- The university has a green roof garden on its Science Research and Teaching Center building.
- PSU has a bike hub that offers bike rentals, repairs, and workshops.
- PSU has an active student body, with over 300 student organizations and clubs.
- The Viking Pavilion is a state-of-the-art sports and events center on the PSU campus.
- The PSU Library is home to more than 1.7 million volumes and is one of the largest academic libraries in Oregon.
- The PSU Library has a collection of rare books and manuscripts, including a first edition of Shakespeare’s plays.
- PSU is home to the Center for Japanese Studies, which offers courses, research opportunities, and cultural events related to Japan.
- PSU is the only university in Oregon with an accredited School of Social Work.
- The School of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), which is the highest standard of accreditation for business schools worldwide.
- The Graduate School of Education is ranked among the top 100 education schools in the United States by U.S. News & World Report.
- The Maseeh College of Engineering and Computer Science is known for its innovative research in robotics, cybersecurity, and renewable energy.
- The College of the Arts is home to the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art, which features rotating exhibits of contemporary and historical art.
- PSU is a member of the Pacific Northwest Association for College Admission Counseling (PNACAC).
- PSU offers study abroad programs in more than 70 countries around the world.
- The PSU Office of International Affairs provides support and services for international students and scholars.
- The university has a program called “Community Partners for Affordable Housing,” which helps low-income families find affordable housing in the Portland area.
- PSU has a program called “Food for Thought,” which provides free meals to students who are experiencing food insecurity.
- The PSU School of Social Work has a program called “Trauma-Informed Oregon,” which provides training and support for organizations that work with trauma survivors.
- The university has a program called “Green Thread,” which promotes sustainable practices in campus dining and food service.
- PSU has a program called “Learning Gardens Lab,” which provides hands-on learning opportunities for students and community members in sustainable agriculture and gardening.
- The PSU School of Business offers a program called “Accelerator,” which provides mentoring and resources for startup businesses in the Portland area.
- PSU is home to the Oregon Center for Public Policy, which conducts research and analysis on state policy issues.
- The university has a program called “Cascadia Center for Arts and Crafts,” which offers classes and workshops in traditional arts and crafts.
- PSU has a program called “Campus Rec,” which offers fitness classes, intramural sports, and outdoor adventure trips for students.
- The university has a program called “Campus Sustainability Office,” which promotes sustainable practices in campus operations and facilities.
- PSU has a program called “Fostering Success,” which provides support and resources for students who have experienced foster care.
- The university has a program called “TRiO Student Support Services,” which provides academic and personal support for first-generation, low-income, and disabled students.
- PSU is a member of the Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities (CUMU).
- The university has a program called “Innovative Housing, Inc.,” which develops and manages affordable housing for low-income families and individuals.
- PSU has a program called “PSU Live,” which offers a variety of performing arts events and concerts throughout the year.
- PSU is home to the Center for Public Interest Design, which promotes socially responsible design and planning practices.
Portland State University is a dynamic and innovative institution that offers a wide range of academic programs and resources for its diverse student body. With a commitment to community engagement and social justice, PSU has become a leading force in the Portland area and beyond. Its urban location provides unique opportunities for students to engage with the city and apply their learning in real-world settings. Whether pursuing a degree in business, engineering, the arts, or any other field, PSU students are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.