University of Portland
U.S. News National 2027
#156
Acceptance rate
89.2%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$58,100
$75,360 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
2,986
Student-faculty ratio 9:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
70.1%
4-year; 6-year rate 79.0%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of Portland, located in the vibrant city of Portland, Oregon, is a private Roman Catholic university known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education and its commitment to the holistic development of students. Established in 1901, the university is situated on a picturesque campus overlooking the Willamette River, providing a serene environment conducive to learning and personal growth. The university's motto, "It is the mission of the University of Portland to provide an education that transforms the lives of our students," reflects its dedication to fostering a sense of purpose and community among its student body.
Academically, the University of Portland offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including business, engineering, nursing, and the arts. The faculty is renowned for its expertise and dedication to teaching, with a low student-to-faculty ratio that ensures personalized attention and mentorship. The university's commitment to student life is evident through its vibrant campus culture, which includes numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic teams that encourage student engagement and leadership. Notably, the university's athletic programs compete at the NCAA Division I level, fostering school spirit and camaraderie among students. With a focus on values-driven education and a strong sense of community, the University of Portland prepares its graduates for successful careers and meaningful lives.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at the University of Portland
The University of Portland, a private institution, has shown significant trends in tuition rates, graduation rates, student retention, and student-to-faculty ratios over the years. Notably, the tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has seen a consistent increase, climbing from $38,670 in 2014 to $54,900 in 2024 for in-state students. This represents an increase of approximately 42% over the decade, reflecting the broader trend of rising costs in higher education, which has become a pressing issue for many prospective students and their families.
In terms of graduation rates, the university has exhibited a positive trajectory. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students increased from roughly 67% in 2013 to about 76% in 2023. This highlights the institution's commitment to enhancing academic outcomes and support services for students. The 150% graduation rate also shows a similar upward trend, indicating a robust educational experience that aids students in completing their degrees.
Furthermore, the retention rate, which signifies how many students continue their studies at the university from one year to the next, has shown variability but remains relatively high. It reached a peak of 91.77% in 2016, but has experienced a drop to around 85.56% in 2023. This decline may warrant further investigation, as it could suggest challenges in maintaining student satisfaction or engagement.
Finally, the student-to-faculty ratio has decreased significantly, from 13:1 in 2013 to 9:1 in 2023. This reduction can enhance the learning environment, allowing for more personalized attention and interaction between faculty and students, which is essential for fostering academic success.
Overall, while the rising tuition presents challenges, the improving graduation rates and decreasing student-to-faculty ratio indicate a positive academic environment at the University of Portland. Addressing retention concerns will be crucial for the institution moving forward.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Portland
- Nearest international airport
- Portland International Airport (PDX), about 6 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Robert Kelly (President)
- Phone
- 5039438000
- Address
- 5000 N Willamette Blvd, Portland, OR 97203-5798
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 79.0%, women 75.6%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at the University of Portland
The admission data from the University of Portland reveals significant trends in acceptance rates and enrollment numbers over the years. From 2009 to 2023, the male acceptance rate has fluctuated, culminating in a striking increase to approximately 93.1% in 2023, a notable rise compared to earlier years. This trend may reflect the university's strategic efforts to attract a diverse student body, particularly in response to changing demographics in higher education.
Similarly, the female acceptance rate has shown an upward trajectory, reaching around 92.2% in 2023. This suggests that the institution is providing more opportunities for women, aligning with broader societal movements towards gender equity in education. The steady rise in enrollment numbers, peaking at 1,004 students in both 2019 and 2020, indicates that the university is managing to attract a larger cohort of applicants despite the competitive landscape of higher education.
Additionally, the number of students denied admission has generally increased, peaking in 2015 at 4,113 denials, which aligns with the observed increase in applications. This could suggest that while acceptance rates have improved, the overall applicant pool has also expanded, reflecting the university's growing reputation.
Overall, the data underscores the University of Portland's commitment to inclusivity and growth, as it navigates the challenges of maintaining quality while accommodating an increasing number of applicants. As the institution continues to adapt, it will be interesting to see how these trends evolve in the coming years amidst the dynamic landscape of higher education.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 6% submitted SAT, 3% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at the University of Portland
The admissions data from the University of Portland reveals significant trends over the years, particularly concerning standardized test scores and the percentage of applicants submitting these scores. From 2007 to 2023, while the number of SAT submissions remained consistently high, we see a notable drop in the percentage of applicants who submitted scores in recent years. For instance, in 2022 and 2023, only 18% and 13% of applicants submitted SAT scores, respectively, compared to nearly universal submission rates (over 99%) in earlier years.
This decline coincides with a growing national trend of colleges and universities moving towards test-optional policies, a shift accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many institutions are recognizing that standardized tests may not fully capture an applicant's potential and are placing more weight on holistic admissions processes. This approach can benefit a diverse range of students who may excel in non-test-related areas.
On the score side, the 25th and 75th percentile scores for the SAT reading and mathematics sections have shown a general increase, indicating that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do tend to achieve higher scores. This suggests a potential stratification where only the highest-achieving students choose to submit their scores, which could impact the overall admissions landscape and diversity.
In summary, the University of Portland's admissions data reflects broader trends in higher education towards test-optional policies, while also highlighting an increase in the quality of submitted scores among those who choose to apply with standardized test results. These changes warrant further examination as they could reshape the future of college admissions.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
8,289 applicants in 2025, 89.2% admitted
7,391 admitted 898 not admitted Yield 9.6%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Education, General · Master's79 (23% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's32 (16% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Doctoral11 (18% international)
- Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management · Master's11 (18% international)
- Higher Education/Higher Education Administration · Master's10 (0% international)
- Family Practice Nurse/Nursing · Doctoral5 (20% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from University of Portland
The graduation data from the University of Portland for 2023 reveals significant trends across various fields of study, particularly in the healthcare and business sectors. Registered Nursing stands out, producing 250 bachelor's graduates, which is a strong indicator of the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals. This trend aligns with the broader national emphasis on nursing, especially during a time when the healthcare sector is facing staffing shortages exacerbated by the pandemic.
In the realm of business, Business Administration and Marketing generated notable numbers, although they were lower than those in nursing. The prominence of these fields suggests a growing interest in business education, which is essential as companies continue to adapt to a rapidly changing economic landscape. The presence of international students in these programs, albeit modest, indicates the university's appeal beyond domestic boundaries.
Interestingly, the data shows a lack of graduates in engineering disciplines, which is concerning given the increasing demand for engineers in the job market. For instance, Mechanical Engineering and Civil Engineering produced only 32 and 25 graduates, respectively. This underrepresentation might reflect broader trends in student interest, potentially driven by the perception of job stability in other fields.
Furthermore, the data highlights the importance of education programs, with a number of students graduating in various educational specialties. This aligns with the current educational reforms and the heightened demand for qualified educators, particularly in elementary and secondary education.
Overall, the graduation data underscores the University of Portland's pivotal role in preparing graduates for critical sectors, while also revealing areas that may need strategic focus to align with market demands. The evolving landscape of education and job requirements will undoubtedly influence future enrollment and graduation trends.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health and Wellness, General. | - | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $102,061 | |||
| Family Practice Nurse/Nursing. | $102,061 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $79,957 | |||
| Operations Management and Supervision. | $79,957 | |||
| Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management. | $79,957 | |||
| Accounting. | $71,187 | |||
| Finance, General. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $55,738 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $54,615 | |||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - | |||
| Higher Education/Higher Education Administration. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $37,742 | |||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $37,742 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | - | |||
| Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering. | - | |||
| Civil Engineering, General. | $75,015 | |||
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | $77,489 | |||
| Mechanical Engineering. | $75,380 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $36,887 | |||
| Biochemistry. | - | |||
| Cell/Cellular and Molecular Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $41,573 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $38,536 | |||
| Sociology, General. | $46,127 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | $84,858 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | $40,245 | |||
| Environmental Science. | $40,245 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - | |||
| Organizational Communication, General. | $44,707 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $45,177 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| French Studies. | - | |||
| German Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | $56,690 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | |||
| Applied Mathematics, General. | $61,580 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theology/Theological Studies. | - |
Students
3,285 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 35:65 · Freshman retention 88.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,155
- First-year undergraduates 711
- Graduate students 299
- Transfers and others 120
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,986)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at the University of Portland in 2023
The student body at the University of Portland reflects a diverse and vibrant community for the 2023 academic year. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 813, of which 34.2% are male and 65.8% are female, indicating a significant majority of female students in this category. This trend continues across other undergraduate classifications, with upperclassmen comprising 2,449 students and maintaining a similar gender ratio of 36.1% male to 63.9% female.
Interestingly, the transfer student population is smaller, with just 106 individuals. Here, the gender distribution is more balanced, with 46.2% male and 53.8% female, suggesting that transfer students may have a more equitable representation. The graduate student demographic also mirrors this trend, with 403 students and a gender ratio of 36.2% male to 63.8% female.
The data on racial and ethnic diversity reveals that white students represent a significant portion of the population in all categories, particularly among undergraduate freshmen, where they account for 333 out of 813 students. However, the university's commitment to inclusivity is evident as it welcomes students from various backgrounds, including Asian, Latinx, and international students.
Overall, while the gender distribution shows a predominance of female students across most categories, the university's demographic profile underscores its dedication to fostering a diverse learning environment. As institutions continue to adapt to societal changes, these statistics may reflect broader trends in higher education, including the increasing enrollment of women and the ongoing efforts to enhance diversity and representation within academic communities.
Age Composition of Students at the University of Portland in 2023
The age composition of students at the University of Portland in 2023 reveals intriguing trends that merit discussion. A significant number of students fall within the traditional undergraduate ages of 18-21, indicating that the university primarily serves younger students. Specifically, 542 male undergraduates and 1,004 female undergraduates are in the 18-19 age bracket, while the 20-21 category includes 549 male and 982 female undergraduates. This reflects a robust participation of young adults in higher education, which is consistent with national trends showing that most college students are between 18-24 years old.
As the age increases, the number of students notably declines. For instance, there are only 102 students between the ages of 22-24 and even fewer in the older age brackets. This trend may suggest that students are either completing their degrees promptly or that older individuals may face challenges in pursuing higher education, which could be linked to work or familial responsibilities.
Additionally, while there are a handful of graduate students in the younger age categories, the numbers rise slightly in the 25-29 age range, indicating that many return to education after gaining some work experience. The presence of mature students in their 30s and 40s, while limited, highlights a growing trend of lifelong learning—a necessity in today's rapidly changing job market.
Overall, the University of Portland's age demographics mirror broader educational patterns, emphasizing the need for institutions to adapt their programs to cater to both traditional students and adult learners. Encouragingly, the university appears to be fostering an inclusive environment that supports diverse educational journeys.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
95 in 2025 · 3.1% in 2016
47 in 2025 · 12.1% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at the University of Portland
The data reveals interesting trends regarding international student enrollment at the University of Portland over the years. Starting from 2004, the percentage of international undergraduate students has shown a gradual increase, reaching a peak of 3.24% in 2023. This indicates a positive shift towards greater diversity within the undergraduate population, reflecting broader trends in higher education where universities are increasingly seeking to attract international talent.
However, it is noteworthy that while the number of international undergraduate students has fluctuated, the overall percentage remains relatively low compared to the graduate programs. For instance, the percentage of international graduate students peaked at 19.67% in 2010, showcasing a more significant international presence at the graduate level. This disparity could suggest that international students are more inclined to pursue graduate studies, possibly due to the specialized nature of these programs or the perceived value of advanced degrees in the global job market.
Over the years, the total number of graduate students has shown a decline, with a notable drop in international student numbers by 2023. This decline in graduate enrollment might reflect broader challenges in the global educational landscape, including shifts in immigration policies, economic conditions, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has disrupted international travel and education.
Overall, while the University of Portland is making strides in increasing its international student representation, particularly at the undergraduate level, it must also address the challenges that have led to fluctuations in graduate enrollment to ensure a balanced and diverse academic community.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$75,360
- Undergraduate tuition
- $58,100
- Room and board
- $17,260
- Graduate tuition
- $27,000
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 37% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 45%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$160M
Expenses$147M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · West Coast Conference
West Coast Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 99 | 99 |
| Rowing | - | 57 |
| Soccer | 31 | 25 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 17 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 24 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Tennis | 7 | 9 |
| NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 85 | 77 |
| Soccer | 33 | 27 |
| Rowing | - | 45 |
| Baseball | 37 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 16 |
| Tennis | 10 | 11 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 91 | 77 |
| Soccer | 28 | 26 |
| Rowing | - | 43 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 17 |
| Tennis | 8 | 14 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Portland State UniversityPortland · 4.7 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Reed CollegePortland · 7.9 mi
Liberal Arts #60
-
Lewis & Clark CollegePortland · 8.9 mi
Liberal Arts #97
-
Pacific UniversityForest Grove · 18.8 mi
U.S. News #236
-
George Fox UniversityNewberg · 22.0 mi
U.S. News #262
-
Willamette UniversitySalem · 46.4 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Oregon State UniversityCorvallis · 74.7 mi
U.S. News #156
-
University of OregonEugene · 106.9 mi
U.S. News #116
-
University of Puget SoundTacoma · 117.4 mi
Liberal Arts #100
Data insights
Here are some notable schools around the University of Portland:
-
Reed College - Ranked 67th in the 2024 US News rankings, Reed College is a private liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus culture.
-
Lewis & Clark College - With a ranking of 93, Lewis & Clark College offers a strong liberal arts education and is recognized for its commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
-
Pacific University - This university is ranked 209th and provides a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing student-centered learning and hands-on experiences.
-
Willamette University - Ranked 75th, Willamette University is one of the oldest universities in the western United States and is known for its strong programs in law and business.
-
University of Oregon - With a ranking of 98, the University of Oregon is recognized for its research programs and diverse student body, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees.
These institutions contribute to the rich educational landscape surrounding the University of Portland, each offering unique programs and experiences for students.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Crime Trends at the University of Portland
The crime data from the University of Portland over the last decade reveals significant fluctuations in reported incidents per 1,000 students. Notably, the peak occurred in 2018, where the arrest rate for gun-related offenses reached a concerning 24.80 incidents per 1,000 students, indicating a troubling environment for safety within the campus community. This spike coincided with a national conversation about gun violence and campus safety, reflecting broader societal issues affecting educational institutions.
Interestingly, 2021 marked a decline in the overall crime rate to 8.25 per 1,000 students, suggesting improvements in campus safety measures or a shift in student behavior amidst the ongoing pandemic. However, the figures for 2022 and 2023 show a resurgence, with rates climbing back to 11.60 per 1,000 students. This trend raises questions about the effectiveness of recent safety initiatives and the need for continued vigilance.
The consistent presence of drug and alcohol-related arrests highlights ongoing challenges that universities face in maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment. As institutions like the University of Portland navigate these complex issues, it is essential for them to adapt their strategies to address the evolving landscape of campus safety.
In conclusion, while there have been years of improvement, the fluctuating crime rates remind us that vigilance is necessary to ensure a safe educational environment. For those interested in understanding crime rates, further insights can be found here: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
All 60Notable alumni of University of Portland include Megan Rapinoe (Former US women's national team soccer player), Kunal Nayyar (Actor, played Raj on The Big Bang Theory) and Christine Sinclair (Canadian soccer player, all-time international goals leader).
-
Megan Rapinoe 1985–
Former US women's national team soccer player
-
Kunal Nayyar 1981–
Actor, played Raj on The Big Bang Theory
-
Christine Sinclair 1983–
Canadian soccer player, all-time international goals leader
-
Steve Cherundolo 1979–
Former soccer player and national U-23 coach
-
Paul Winfield 1939–2004
Actor nominated for Best Actor for Sounder
-
Jean M. Auel 1936–
Novelist, author of the Earth's Children series
-
Erik Spoelstra 1970–
Head coach of the Miami Heat
-
Kasey Keller 1969–
Goalkeeper and four-time World Cup participant
-
Tiffeny Milbrett 1972–
Former US women's national team forward
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.