Portland State University is a public research institution located in Portland, Oregon. Founded in 1946 as the Vanport Extension Center to serve World War II veterans, the university relocated to downtown Portland in 1952 and achieved university status in 1969. Today, it offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across multiple disciplines, including business, engineering, liberal arts, and public health. The university is recognized for its urban campus and emphasis on community engagement and sustainability. Portland State operates as a state-supported institution and is classified as a doctoral university with high research activity. It is privately held in terms of governance structure, as it does not issue public stock.