The University of Portland was founded in 1901 and has been run by the Congregation of Holy Cross, the same order that founded Notre Dame, since 1935. It began as Columbia University before being renamed in 1935. The university is best known for its focus on undergraduate education, small class sizes, and strong programs in nursing, engineering, and business, and it consistently ranks among the top regional universities in the West.
The campus sits on a bluff above the Willamette River in Portland's University Park neighborhood. Student life centers on faith-informed community, service, and the outdoors, with Portland's food, arts, and internship opportunities nearby. Students value close faculty mentorship, a strong alumni network in the Pacific Northwest, and a lively athletics scene, particularly in soccer, which has won multiple national titles.
| Type | Private |
| Location | Portland, Oregon |
| Founded | 1901 |
| Total students | 4,200 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 11:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 78% |
| Graduation rate | 79% |
| Average starting salary | $58,000 |
| In-state tuition | $55,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $55,000 |
| Room & board | $14,000 |
| Average financial aid | $34,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 98% |
| SAT range | 1130-1330 |
| ACT range | 24-30 |
| Average GPA | 3.70 |
| Regular deadline | January 15 |
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.