Distinguished Programs and Faculty
Many of Portland State’s disciplinary programs are highly ranked in the United States, and the Princeton Review lists PSU among its Best Colleges.
The innovative University Studies program, a four-year general education program which promotes community-based, interdisciplinary learning, and engagement with real-world problems, has established Portland State as a national model for other colleges and universities.
The University Honors College is the only urban-focused honors college in the country. Here, a small, dedicated community of highly motivated students and engaged professors explore an academically intense curriculum through the lens of the culturally rich, ever-evolving city of Portland.
Portland State professors are prized for their knowledge, research and service. Faculty come to Portland State from colleges and universities around the world. Though diverse in culture, background, language, and ethnicity, they come to Portland unified in their commitment to the University’s exceptional approach to learning and engagement.
PSU’s motto, “Let knowledge serve the city,” inspires faculty research. PSU professors research some of society’s greatest challenges—providing students with firsthand knowledge and opportunities for involvement and collaboration in their communities. Faculty use their expertise to serve the region through their work with businesses, nonprofits, and governmental agencies and by holding key posts in professional, cultural, and civic groups.