A large crowd of students and staff stands together under a shower of colorful confetti on move-in day.

Student Life

Student life at University of Portland is rooted in community—with one another, with our city, and with a shared sense of purpose that drives everything we do.

From treasured residence hall traditions to on-campus concerts to intramural sports and beyond, The Bluff is always buzzing with activity and ways to get involved. Plus, with over 100 student-run clubs, a vibrant campus media scene, and opportunities for service on campus and off, there’s always something new to explore! Every experience helps shape who you are and who you’re becoming—discover how.

Three University of Portland students pose together on a sunny day in front of a large cherry blossom tree on campus.

Living on Campus

At UP, living on campus puts everything within reach—your morning workout, your favorite dining spot, your after-class hangouts, and your closest friends. Our 10 unique residence halls each have their own culture and traditions, creating spaces where you can build community, hone your passions, and thrive.

A close-up of a group of students putting their hands together in the center of a circle before playing an intramural sport.

Get Involved

Campus life is what you make of it, and the options are nearly endless at University of Portland. With over 100 student-run clubs and organizations, there’s a place for everyone to find community, try something new, and even gain leadership skills in the process—whether it’s taking the stage in a campus production, spinning records at UP’s radio station, running for student government, or joining an intramural sports team.

Not finding an opportunity that matches your interests? Start your own club and turn your passion into something bigger.

Make Your Home at UP

Discover the many ways University of Portland supports your well-being and growth so you can make the most of your college experience on The Bluff.

A close-up of three students standing with their arms around each other's shoulders during an orientation event.

Faith & Service

Guided by our Holy Cross tradition, we support the formation of your head, heart, and hands through campus ministry, faith-based learning, service leadership opportunities, and interfaith dialogue. Here, we invite you to explore your values, make an impact, and put your faith into action.

Officer Reyn Catala stands with his arms crossed in front of a University of Portland campus safety vehicle.

Campus Safety

Safety is central to student life at UP. The Department of Campus Safety works 24/7 to maintain a secure, welcoming, and enjoyable environment for all students, staff, faculty, and guests.

A student's silhouette from inside the Beauchamp Recreation Center as they run on an indoor track in front of a large window.

Health & Wellness

Wellness at UP is about more than staying healthy—it’s about feeling supported in every area of your life. The Beauchamp Recreation & Wellness Center offers state-of-the-art fitness facilities, with access to classes and one-on-one training opportunities alongside two floors of cardio equipment, weight rooms, and yoga studios. And because your well-being matters here, our Student Wellness Center also provides services like counseling, healthcare, and violence prevention programs.

The Portland Advantage

Located in a quiet, close-knit neighborhood of North Portland, University of Portland is uniquely situated to offer you the best of the city. Grab lunch from local food carts, walk to Cathedral Park and visit the St. Johns Bridge, or catch a movie after class. And with dozens of unique neighborhoods and districts to explore across the city, you’ll never tire of exploring the incredible food, music, shopping, and culture Portland has to offer.

There’s also so much to discover beyond city limits—Portland is just east of the spectacular Columbia River Gorge, known for dazzling waterfalls and hiking trails for every level. And whether you prefer sun, sand, or snow, UP is only a 90-minute drive to both Mt. Hood’s famed ski slopes and the beach towns of the Pacific Coast. Whatever adventure you’re seeking, Oregon has it all!

Explore Life Beyond the Bluff

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Join Our Community. We’re Waiting for You!

Your exploration outside of the classroom is just as important as what you learn inside it. Student life at University of Portland means leading a service project that challenges your world-view, connecting with others and learning from their unique perspectives, and finding ways to explore your passions and your purpose. Step UP and experience it for yourself.