Overview
Enrollment
Portland State University, located in the urban heart of downtown Portland, Oregon, offers students a vibrant city campus that interacts with the surrounding metropolis. Established in 1946, the institution has grown to accommodate a diverse student body and prides itself on its accessible education ethos. Portland State is known for its commitment to sustainability, showcased by environmentally conscious buildings and a curriculum that emphasizes green living. The university provides on-campus housing options, although many students choose to live off-campus in the city. Academically, Portland State is recognized for its strong programs in social work, urban and public affairs, and environmental studies. With a moderately selective application process, the university attracts a broad range of applicants. While the athletic program at Portland State is not its most defining feature, the university competes in NCAA Division I as the Vikings in various sports, including football and basketball.
In the most recent statistical year 7,926 prospective students applied, and 7,378 were granted admission. Of those admitted 1,634 enrolled in the school. 13,642 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 7,967 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $9,000 plus fees of $1,806. Portland State University is ranked 730 nationally in the CollegeSimply.com 2024 U.S. Colleges Ranking.
Ratings
Overall
Academics
Resources
Outcomes
Value
Portland State University is rated within the lower 43% of four-year colleges nationally and earns a CollegeSimply grade of 5 out of 10. Learn how ratings are calculated
Rankings
Rankings for Portland State University within the 2024 CollegeSimply Best Colleges Lists.
#730 in Best Colleges in the U.S.
#258 in Best Public Colleges in the U.S.
#10 in Best Colleges in Oregon
#4 in Best Public Colleges in Oregon
#26 in Best Value Colleges in Oregon
View the CollegeSimply ranking methodology.
Getting In
Admission Standards
| SAT | 1000/1250 |
| ACT | 17/24 |
| GPA | 3.36 |
Applications Accepted
| Applications Due | - |
| Applicant Competition | Very Low |
| Application Fee | $60 |
Annual Cost to Attend
Oregon Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $888 |
| Other Fees | $1,806 |
| Room and Board | $14,940 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $2,811 |
| Total One Year Cost | $29,445 |
Out of State Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $888 |
| Other Fees | $1,806 |
| Room and Board | $14,940 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $2,811 |
| Total One Year Cost | $48,345 |
Outcomes
Average Salary After 10 Years
Bachelor's Degree Graduation Rate
Popular Areas of Study
| Subject | Percent of Class |
|---|---|
| Business | 20% |
| Social Sciences | 16% |
| Liberal Arts and Humanities | 9% |
| Psychology | 7% |
| Health Professions | 6% |
Other Colleges to Consider
Students considering Portland State University are frequently interested in these similar colleges.
Primary data source, U.S. Department of Education https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?id=209807 IPEDS survey data for Portland State University.
Current students may use the Portland State University GPA calculator to determine their current college GPA.