Portland State University

PSU's academic reputation is forged in its motto: "Let Knowledge Serve the City." This ethos is most powerfully embodied by its nationally acclaimed College of Urban and Public Affairs (CUPA). If your passion lies in understanding and shaping cities, this is one of the best places in the country to be. Programs like Urban and Regional Planning, Criminology & Criminal Justice, and the School of Social Work are not just strong; they are deeply embedded in the civic fabric of the region, providing students with unparalleled real-world laboratories for their studies. Beyond its urban planning prowess, PSU boasts several other standout areas:

• The School of Art + Design: Particularly known for its exceptional Graphic Design program, which consistently produces top-tier talent for agencies in Portland and beyond.

• Environmental Science and Management: Leveraging its Pacific Northwest location, PSU offers robust programs that tackle critical issues in sustainability, conservation, and climate science.

• School of Business: With a strong focus on social responsibility and sustainability, its programs in Supply & Logistics Management are highly regarded, plugging students directly into the region's vast network of import/export and manufacturing companies. Research at PSU is distinctly applied. Faculty and students collaborate on projects that directly address challenges facing the Portland metro area, from housing insecurity and transportation logistics to public health and sustainable development. The mandatory, community-based senior capstone projects ensure every graduate leaves with tangible experience, having worked with a local organization to solve a real problem.

Attending a university located in the heart of a major economic hub provides a career advantage that cannot be overstated. PSU students don't need to travel for internships; they are literally a streetcar ride away. The university's deep connections with the city and its industries create a seamless pipeline from classroom to career.

• Internship Goldmine: The "Silicon Forest" provides a wealth of opportunities at tech giants like Intel, while global brands like Nike and Columbia Sportswear offer coveted positions in marketing, design, and logistics. The non-profit and public sectors are equally accessible, with countless students interning at the City of Portland, Multnomah County, and various community organizations.

• A Hyper-Local Alumni Network: The vast majority of PSU graduates stay and work in the Portland area. This creates a powerful, accessible alumni network of leaders and professionals who are invested in hiring fellow Vikings. If your goal is to build a career in the Pacific Northwest, a PSU degree is a golden ticket.

• Dedicated Career Services: The university’s Advising & Career Services actively promotes experiential learning. They host frequent career fairs featuring local employers and work diligently to place students in meaningful co-ops and internships that often lead directly to full-time job offers upon graduation.

Students choose and love Portland State for its authenticity and direct connection to the world around it. It’s an education without walls, where learning is an active, engaging experience that spills out into the city streets. The number one reason students rave about PSU is the unbeatable urban environment. The campus is a launchpad for exploring everything Portland has to offer—from the world-famous Powell's City of Books and eclectic food cart pods to lush Forest Park and a legendary live music scene. This integration makes for a dynamic and exciting student life that feels less like "college" and more like living a full, interesting life while earning a degree. Furthermore, students value the practical, hands-on nature of the curriculum. The focus on community-based projects and problem-solving means education feels relevant and purposeful. Graduates don't just leave with a diploma; they leave with a professional portfolio and a network of contacts. This emphasis on accessibility, affordability, and serving a diverse student population makes PSU a beacon of opportunity, providing a high-quality education for those who are ready to engage with the world and make their mark.