Building a Resilient Future for Students

PSU for the Future

Portland State University is working to become more resilient for the future. The university has proposed reducing or eliminating some of its academic departments in order to align them with student demand.

Your Degree is Secure

Changes are being designed with future PSU students in mind. Every current PSU student will continue their pathway to graduation.

Why is this happening?

Costs are up. Enrollment is down. The university must address a $35 million budget deficit so it can continue to offer an accessible, affordable education for future generations.

The university’s approach is to balance the budget in a manner that leads to long-term financial stability, while making strategic decisions to support the academic programs and resources that students want and need in the future.

Timeline

The university is following the retrenchment process of Article 22, as part of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with the faculty union (PSU-AAUP), because the President has determined that conditions exist that require departmental reductions and, in some instances, departmental eliminations.

In May of 2026, after an initial comment period, President Cudd will provide a Provisional Plan, with preliminary recommendations for changes to certain departments and associated budgetary impacts. This Provisional Plan will be shared with campus and final decisions will be made in June of 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Where can I see which departments are being considered for reduction or elimination?
The university has listed the departments for possible reduction or elimination on the Article 22 site. Keep in mind that this is a preliminary list and no final decisions have been made. Even if some of these departments experience changes, your pathway to graduation is protected.

My department is being considered for reduction or elimination — what does this mean for my degree?
Your degree is secure. It is too early to know exact details about how this will impact individual departments. However, no matter what changes occur within the department, you will be able to finish your degree.

Will this impact my spring 2026 schedule?
No. No final decisions have been made and all of the classes and instructors scheduled for the Spring 2026 term will proceed as scheduled.

Who can I talk to if I’m worried about these changes?
An undergraduate advisor or graduate program director can help you understand what’s happening. You can also reach out to student services for emotional support.

Why is this happening now?
Like many universities, PSU is facing financial challenges due to changes in enrollment and rising costs. By making careful choices now, we can strengthen our departments and make sure PSU remains a strong, sustainable university for years to come.

How do changes in departments balance the budget?
Restructuring departments helps the university focus resources on the courses, services and support students want and need most — strengthening the overall student experience and ensuring PSU remains stable for current and future students.

In what other ways is the university addressing its budget shortfall?
Portland State University faces an estimated $35 million budget shortfall over two years (fiscal years 2026-2028) due to declining enrollment, rising costs, and flat support from the state. To address this shortfall and build a foundation for long-term financial sustainability, Portland State University established the Bridge to the Future 2.0 plan. In addition to changes to academic departments, the university is actively pursuing operational efficiencies.

Stay Informed

Updates will be shared through:

This webpage (bookmark it for reference)
Your PSU email
Messages from your advisor

Have questions?
Reach out to your advisor or visit pdx.edu/advising.