Preamble

As part of the Oregon University System, Portland State University's vision is to enhance recognition of the value of higher education by continually strengthening the metropolitan environment and utilizing that strength for its own growth toward standards of excellence in accessible high quality research, teaching and outreach programs. As a microcosm of the global society, the metropolitan environment becomes a laboratory for Portland State in this vision. It is the vision of a university that will set the standard for institutions located in an urban setting.

The Mission

The mission of Portland State University is to enhance the intellectual, social, cultural and economic qualities of urban life by providing access throughout the life span to a quality liberal education for undergraduates and an appropriate array of professional and graduate programs especially relevant to metropolitan areas.

A High Quality Educational Environment

The university conducts research and community service that support a high quality educational environment and reflect issues important to the region. It actively promotes the development of a network of educational institutions to serve the community.

Creation of Knowledge

Portland State University contributes to the creation and communication of knowledge in the greater metropolitan region through its teaching, research, and outreach programs. The institution is committed to providing access to programs defined by the traditions of liberal education and responsive to the dynamics of employment and market requirements.

Local, Regional, National, and Global Impact

The expertise of PSU's faculty, students, and staff enriches programs extending beyond the region. Selected programs are offered throughout the state, including professional, degree completion, and lifelong learning programs. PSU designs and delivers high-quality, cost-effective academic and service programs to all qualified Oregonians working both with its own resources and through partnerships with other organizations and institutions. Collaborating with K-12, community colleges, and other institutions and organizations, PSU demonstrates its commitment to address issues important to learners during their entire lives.

The Urban Laboratory

The institution capitalizes on an urban location with diverse and unique opportunities for student and faculty learning that go beyond the traditional classroom and laboratory settings. The diversity of its students and their communities enhances academic programs and extracurricular activities.

Meeting The Needs of Contemporary Society

PSU promotes student learning, research, and community involvement relevant to contemporary society here and throughout the world through its unique interdisciplinary general education curriculum, undergraduate degree programs, and professional and graduate programs. Academic focus on urban issues includes the study of societies in their larger context.

Meeting The Needs of A Diverse Community

The integration of teaching, research, and outreach at PSU offers students of a diverse age, ethnicity, and experience the preparation to become responsible citizens attuned to the needs not only of their own communities but those of regional, national and international communities. Portland State faculty and students engage in national and international research programs that apply the benefits of new knowledge to the institution's learning and outreach goals.