Portland State University
Portland, United States • Founded 1946 • QS 2027 #1201-1400
Updated Oct 2026 · Source: pdx.edu
Overview
Established in 1946, the Portland State University is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the metropolis of Portland (population range of 1,000,000-5,000,000 inhabitants), Oregon.
Officially accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, Portland State University (PSU) is a large-sized coeducational US higher education institution. Portland State University (PSU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 78-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 90-99% making this US higher education organization a least selective institution.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.
PSU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Address, phone, email, and online links for Portland State University are listed below.
Academic Details
Below are the institutional metrics for Portland State University: scale, staffing, and accreditation.
Academic Structures
The faculties, schools, and constituent units that make up Portland State University are listed below.
Unit 8 items
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- College of Urban and Public Affairs
- Graduate School of Education
- Maseeh College of Engineering and Computer Science
- School of Business Administration
- School of Extended Studies
- School of Fine and Performing Arts
- School of Social Work
Programs Offered
The full set of programmes Portland State University offers is searchable and grouped by level below.
255 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 72 programmes
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Master's Degree 74 programmes
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Doctorate 23 programmes
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Certificate 21 programmes
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Postgraduate Certificate 65 programmes
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How to apply to Portland State University
The application path for Portland State University, in five steps.
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1
Find a programme that fits your goals
Begin by reviewing the programmes section above. Portland State University offers 255 programmes grouped by qualification level. Decide on a target tier (bachelor's, master's, or doctoral) before narrowing by subject.
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2
Confirm you meet the requirements
Each programme at Portland State University has its own entry requirements — academic minimums, language proficiency, supporting documents, and sometimes interviews or portfolios. Check the programme-specific page or contact admissions to confirm eligibility.
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3
Assemble your application package
Most applications require certified academic records, identification documents, language test certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent for English-medium programmes), CV/résumé, and a statement of purpose. Allow extra time for document authentication.
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4
Submit your application
Apply directly via Portland State University's online portal at www.pdx.edu. Complete the application form, upload supporting documents, and pay any application fee. Confirmation emails typically arrive within a few business days.
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5
Contact admissions and follow up
After submitting, confirm receipt with the admissions office and track your application status through the portal. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (503) 725 3000. Set reminders for any interview requests, additional document submissions, or admission decision deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Portland State University
Common questions about Portland State University, answered from data on record.
When was Portland State University founded?
Portland State University was established in 1946 (approximately 80 years ago).
In which city is Portland State University?
Portland State University is based in Portland, United States.
Is Portland State University public or private?
It is a public higher-education institution.
How many students study at Portland State University?
Portland State University has approximately 13,182 students.
What is Portland State University's ranking?
Portland State University is ranked QS 2027 #1201-1400.
How is Portland State University organised academically?
Portland State University has 8 academic units.
Is Portland State University officially recognised?
Portland State University is accredited by Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
What is Portland State University's official website?
Portland State University's official website is www.pdx.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
the United States's leading universities appear below, useful for benchmarking Portland State University's academic standing. Use this list as the upper-bound reference for academic prestige within the United States.
Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
Portland State University and the universities below are both members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
Faculties at nearby universities
The institutions below are geographically close to Portland State University.
Where Else to Study Liberal Arts
Other institutions in the United States teaching Liberal Arts are listed below for comparison with Portland State University.
Universities Compared with Portland State University
Comparable universities to Portland State University are listed below.
Studying in United States: guides and resources
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