Academics
Portland State University’s motto is “let knowledge serve the city,” and students echo this philosophy, saying their school “has a strong focus on civic engagement and sustainability.” “PSU is a great learning environment in the heart of the city” and a “good value” for your tuition dollars. It’s also “a green-minded urban school” that’s “training students to be good community members.” “There is a wealth of courses” on offer here, with degrees in social work, a range of business majors, and the hard sciences all receiving praise. “Classes are usually pretty small,” and professors “promote lots of in-class discussion and are readily available to meet outside of class as well.” “They really care about the student’s success, and they really help broaden our scope of learning [and] thinking critically.” Adjunct professors are “very connected to the community and their particular areas of expertise.” Overall, students are happy with their instructors, saying, “Most professors are engaging and truly want to challenge you and help you succeed.” They “are well-educated [and] well-versed in current issues and research.” There’s “the occasional dud thrown into the mix,” though. Generally, “they are prepared and are passionate about the classes they teach. They have a wealth of experiences to bring to classroom,” and they’re “easily accessible for questions or further assistance, students just need to reach out.”
