University of Portland

Nestled on a scenic bluff overlooking the Willamette River in Portland, Oregon, the University of Portland (UP) stands as a distinguished private Catholic institution. Affiliated with the Congregation of Holy Cross, UP shares a special bond with its sister school, the renowned University of Notre Dame. It offers a comprehensive educational experience, blending its rich Catholic tradition with a commitment to academic excellence across a wide array of disciplines.

UP's origins trace back to the visionary Archbishop Alexander Christie, who established it as Columbia University on September 5, 1901. Ownership soon transitioned to the Congregation of Holy Cross, shaping its enduring identity. The university steadily grew, transitioning from a junior college to granting its first bachelor's degrees in 1929. In 1935, it adopted its current name, the University of Portland, continuing its expansion with the establishment of key professional schools.

Today, the University of Portland is proud to be Oregon's sole comprehensive Catholic university, housing a College of Arts and Sciences, a Graduate School, and acclaimed professional schools of Business, Education, Engineering, and Nursing & Health Innovations. Its School of Business boasts AACSB accreditation, while the Donald P. Shiley School of Engineering consistently ranks among the top 40 nationally for bachelor's and master's degree-granting institutions, a testament to its innovative programs and commitment to student success.

Beyond its academic prowess, UP is deeply integrated into the fabric of its community. It made a progressive move in 1951 by admitting women to all courses of study, further broadening its impact. As North Portland's largest corporation, UP contributes significantly to the local economy with an annual impact of $170 million, fostering a thriving environment where over 17,000 alumni continue to enrich the Portland metropolitan area.