Academic Revitalization

Portland State University is committed to continuous improvement of its academic programs to best meet the needs of students, community partners, and the region we serve. As part of a larger university-wide initiative, the College of Education is actively engaged in revitalizing its programs to strengthen offerings, align with employer-valued skills, and ensure long-term sustainability. This process allows us to continue fulfilling our mission—of preparing educators and leaders who make a difference in schools and communities—for years to come.

What does this mean for you?

As part of this effort, some College of Education programs have temporarily paused new admissions. This pause, also known as a "moratorium," allows us to review and refine programs to ensure they are meeting their objectives, addressing student and employer needs, and supporting educational goals for the region.

What is a moratorium?

A moratorium is a temporary pause—typically lasting one to three years—on admitting new students to a program. During this time, we evaluate the program’s structure, goals, and sustainability, implementing changes as needed. It’s important to note that a moratorium does not mean program closure. All admitted students will be able to complete their programs.

Following accreditation requirements, PSU has a moratorium procedure for programs that result in a PSU credential, managed by the Office of Academic Affairs (OAA). A program is not put in moratorium until it has completed the process and been approved to proceed by the dean and OAA, with input from the College Curriculum Committee, Educational Policy Committee, and the Undergraduate Curriculum Committee or Graduate Council.

Programs temporarily pausing admissions

College of Education programs that are currently on pause are as follows:

Autism Advanced Concepts

The Autism Advanced Concepts Certificate of Completion is a non-degree program that builds on the core concepts curriculum. Topics include teaching social skills, building relationships, educational implications, transitioning through grade levels, college and adult life, and networks that support the life success for individuals with autism.

Period: 2025–2026

Autism Core Concepts

The Autism Core Concepts Certificate of Completion is a non-degree program designed to support educators as they work with students with autism. The certificate provides foundational evidence-based practices and teaching strategies to support students with autism in early childhood through school age  as well as transition from high school into adult life and careers.

Period: 2025–2026

Career and Community Studies

Career and Community Studies (CCS) is a pre-baccalaureate certificate program that provides intensive direct support to non-degree undergraduate students with intellectual and developmental disability. Supports include assistance with modifying coursework, engaging in social activities, and providing career development and employment. CCS offers individualized supports so students achieve their long-term goal of competitive integrated employment in a career path of interest. The CCS certificate does not culminate in a degree.

Period: 2024–2025

Educational Leadership Doctorate

Our doctoral program in educational leadership provides working professionals with an in-depth understanding of what it means to be a leader in their field. Through our graduate program's in-person and online course offerings, students deepen their understanding of research and leadership, and strengthen their communication skills in current or aspiring leadership positions.

Period: 2024-2027

Inclusive Elementary Educator Program

The Inclusive Elementary Educator program (IEEP) is a master’s degree and initial licensure program that prepares future teachers to work with all students. Students in this program earn a teaching license with multiple subjects and special education endorsements. The central beliefs of the IEEP are that students with disabilities should be educated alongside their nondisabled peers; classroom teachers bear central responsibility for the education of all students in their classrooms; the role of special educators is to provide resources and support for classroom teachers and their students in the classroom as much as possible; general and special educators serve students best when teaming and collaborating; and inclusive education, when properly practiced, leads to the development of exemplary educators, as well as the effective education of all students.

Period: 2025–2026

Secondary Education Endorsements in Physical Education, Health, and Art

Initial teacher preparation and added endorsement programs for secondary education include our Graduate Teacher Education Program, Secondary Dual Educator Program, International Teacher Education Program, and Added Secondary Endorsement program. Students in these programs specialize in a content area and take content-area-specific methods coursework to learn how to teach their subject.

Period: 2025–2026

Secondary Dual Educator Program

The Secondary Dual Educator Program is a master’s degree and initial licensure program that prepares future teachers to work with all students. Students in this program earn a teaching license and are endorsed for a specific content area at the secondary level and special education. This program provides a solid foundation in inclusive education preparing students to create and integrate educational equity, social justice, and a sense of belonging into our school communities

Period: 2025–2026

Moving forward together

The College of Education remains deeply committed to providing high-quality education and support to all of our students. Our faculty and staff are dedicated to aligning programs with the skills and experiences most valued by employers, ensuring that your education is a strong investment in your future.

This revitalization effort reflects our mission of preparing effective, inclusive, and innovative educators who contribute meaningfully to their communities. If you have any questions about the programs or this process, please reach out to us for more information.