Portland State University

With an ROI score of 24 and an affordability score of 90, Portland State University offers a financially accessible education. However, the moderate graduation rate and median earnings suggest that while affordable, the financial return may not be as high as some other institutions.

Graduates from Portland State University can expect to earn a median of $57,906 ten years after entry, which is a reasonable outcome given the cost of attendance, particularly for in-state students.

Portland State University has a high admission rate of 90.9%, indicating it is not highly selective.

The graduation rate at Portland State University is 52.9%.

Given the high admission rate of 90.9%, students seeking a highly selective and academically rigorous environment might find other institutions a better fit. However, PSU offers a comprehensive education within a large, urban setting.

Portland State University has a high acceptance rate of 90.9%, indicating that it is a broadly accessible institution. This means that the vast majority of students who apply are admitted, making it a relatively non-selective university. While specific GPA and standardized test score ranges are not the primary barriers to entry, applicants are still expected to meet general admission requirements. These typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, and for recent high school graduates, a certain number of college preparatory courses. PSU emphasizes a holistic review process, but with such a high acceptance rate, the focus is more on ensuring applicants have the foundational academic preparation to succeed. Prospective students should ensure they meet the minimum course requirements and submit all necessary documentation by the deadlines. The university encourages applications from a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences, viewing them as assets to the campus community.

For in-state students, Portland State University offers a strong return on investment. The in-state tuition is $11,679 per year, leading to an estimated four-year cost of around $46,716. With a 10-year median earning of $57,906, graduates can expect to earn back their tuition costs and median debt of $20,500 within a few years of entering the workforce. The ROI score of 24 further supports its value. PSU's urban location in Portland provides direct access to a thriving job market in sectors like tech, healthcare, and sustainability, enhancing career prospects. While out-of-state tuition is significantly higher ($31,074 annually), the median earnings remain consistent, making it a less financially prudent choice for non-residents unless substantial financial aid is secured. Overall, PSU is a financially sound decision for Oregon residents seeking a quality education and a clear path to a stable career.

Portland State University excels in several program areas that align with the strengths of the Portland metropolitan economy. The College of Engineering and Computer Science is highly regarded, offering strong programs in software engineering, mechanical engineering, and environmental engineering, feeding into the region's tech and sustainability sectors. The School of Business offers robust degrees in finance, marketing, and supply chain management, preparing students for roles in major corporations headquartered in the area. PSU's College of Urban and Public Affairs is unique and highly relevant, with popular majors like urban planning, public administration, and criminology, leveraging the university's location in a major city. Additionally, programs within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, such as psychology, biology (especially with OHSU partnerships), and English, provide solid foundations for diverse career paths or graduate studies. Students interested in healthcare can benefit from pre-professional tracks and partnerships with OHSU.

Student life at Portland State University is characterized by its urban setting and diverse student body. As a campus integrated into downtown Portland, students experience a dynamic environment with easy access to the city's cultural attractions, restaurants, and public transportation. The university fosters a commuter-friendly atmosphere but also offers on-campus housing options for those seeking a more traditional residential experience. Student organizations are plentiful, covering a wide range of interests from academic clubs and cultural groups to recreational activities and advocacy organizations. PSU emphasizes community engagement and social justice, with many student groups focused on activism and volunteer work. The campus itself is a mix of historic and modern buildings spread across several blocks, creating a unique urban campus feel. While it may lack the sprawling green quads of some traditional universities, the energy of the city is an integral part of the PSU experience, offering endless opportunities for exploration and involvement.

Portland State University is committed to making education accessible and offers a comprehensive range of financial aid options. For the 2022-2023 academic year, approximately 85% of undergraduate students received some form of financial aid. This aid comes in various forms, including federal and state grants (like the Pell Grant and Oregon Opportunity Grant), institutional scholarships, and student loans. PSU offers numerous scholarships based on merit, need, specific academic programs, and diversity. The average financial aid package for undergraduates can vary significantly, but it aims to reduce the overall cost of attendance. Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the Oregon Application for Student Aid (ORSAA) to be considered for the maximum amount of aid. The university's financial aid office provides resources and counseling to help students navigate the application process and understand their options.

Graduates from Portland State University can expect a median salary of $57,906 ten years after graduation, according to available data. This figure represents a broad average across all majors and career paths. Specific earning potential varies significantly by field of study. For instance, graduates from the Maseeh College of Engineering and Computer Science, particularly in fields like software engineering or computer science, often command higher starting salaries, potentially ranging from $70,000 to $90,000 or more in the competitive tech market. Business graduates, especially in finance or supply chain, might expect starting salaries in the $55,000 to $75,000 range. Graduates in fields like social sciences or humanities may have lower starting salaries but often see significant growth over time, especially if they pursue graduate studies or enter specialized fields. The strong regional economy in Portland and the Pacific Northwest supports these earning potentials, particularly in high-demand sectors.

Portland State University offers several on-campus housing options designed to accommodate a diverse student population, primarily focusing on undergraduate students. The residence halls, such as Montgomery Hall, Blumel Hall, and the University Pointe apartments, provide a range of living styles, from traditional dormitory rooms to apartment-style living. Most halls offer single, double, and triple occupancy rooms, often with shared common bathrooms. University Pointe provides apartment-style units with private bedrooms and shared living spaces, kitchens, and bathrooms, catering more to upper-division students or graduate students. All residence halls are furnished and include basic utilities, internet access, and laundry facilities. The emphasis is on creating a supportive living-learning environment, with Resident Advisors (RAs) available to assist students. While PSU is an urban university and many students live off-campus, the on-campus housing provides a convenient and engaging way to experience university life.

Portland State University offers significant research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students, particularly given its urban setting and strong ties to local industries and institutions. The university actively encourages student involvement in research through various programs and initiatives. Undergraduates can participate in faculty-led research projects across all colleges, including the Maseeh College of Engineering and Computer Science, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and the College of Urban and Public Affairs. PSU also hosts undergraduate research symposia where students can present their findings. Graduate students are deeply involved in research, contributing to faculty scholarship and often undertaking their own thesis or dissertation projects. Key research strengths include urban studies, sustainability, clean energy, public health, and technology. Partnerships with institutions like Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) and various government agencies provide unique avenues for research collaborations and access to specialized facilities and data.

Portland State University (PSU) is often compared to other public universities in the Pacific Northwest, such as the University of Oregon and Oregon State University. Compared to UO and OSU, PSU's primary differentiator is its urban campus located in the heart of Portland. This provides unique access to internships and career opportunities within the city's diverse economy, particularly in sectors like tech, business, and urban planning, which may be less accessible at the more traditional, campus-centric environments of UO and OSU. While UO and OSU often rank higher in national surveys for overall academic prestige and research output, PSU excels in applied learning and community engagement. PSU's admission rate is also higher than many flagship state universities, making it more accessible. In terms of cost, PSU is generally competitive, especially for in-state students, offering a strong value proposition focused on career readiness within the regional job market.

Employers in the Pacific Northwest generally hold a positive view of graduates from Portland State University, particularly those who have actively engaged in internships and experiential learning opportunities. PSU's strong connections with local industries, including major tech companies like Intel and Nike, healthcare providers like OHSU, and numerous startups, mean that many employers are familiar with the university's programs and the caliber of its students. Employers value PSU graduates for their practical skills, adaptability, and often their commitment to social and environmental responsibility, traits that align with Portland's culture. The university's emphasis on urban engagement and interdisciplinary studies also produces well-rounded individuals prepared for complex, real-world challenges. While PSU may not carry the same national brand recognition as some elite institutions, its reputation within the regional job market is solid, especially for programs directly aligned with the needs of the local economy.