University of Western States

University of Western States: Programs, Admissions, Tuition Fees, Scholarships and Student Life

Introduction

The University of Western States (UWS) is a private university located in Portland, Oregon, United States. Established in 1904, the institution has a long history of providing specialised education in healthcare, chiropractic, nutrition, sports medicine, psychology, and other health-related disciplines. The university focuses on whole-person health education, combining scientific research, evidence-based learning, and practical professional training.

Unlike traditional universities that primarily focus on undergraduate education, University of Western States specialises in graduate, doctoral, professional, and selected undergraduate programmes. Its academic offerings are designed for students interested in developing advanced knowledge and professional expertise in healthcare and wellness-related fields.

The university provides educational opportunities through its College of Chiropractic, College of Graduate Studies, and other specialised academic divisions. Students can explore programmes in chiropractic, clinical nutrition, functional medicine, occupational therapy, clinical mental health counselling, and sport and performance psychology.

Located in Portland, Oregon, the university offers an educational environment that combines academic instruction with practical training and professional development. Students can access campus facilities, research resources, clinical learning environments, and online educational options depending on their selected programme.

For international students interested in specialised healthcare education in the United States, University of Western States offers an opportunity to pursue advanced academic qualifications while developing the knowledge and practical skills required for professional practice.

About University of Western States

University of Western States was established in 1904 and has developed into a specialised institution focusing on healthcare education and whole-person wellness. Its educational philosophy emphasises understanding individuals through a comprehensive approach that considers physical health, mental well-being, lifestyle, and other factors influencing overall wellness.

The institution has built its academic identity around evidence-based healthcare education. Students are encouraged to understand scientific research, evaluate clinical information, and apply appropriate professional practices in their selected fields.

The university's academic environment combines classroom instruction, practical learning, research, clinical preparation, and professional development. This approach helps students connect theoretical knowledge with the requirements of healthcare and wellness-related careers.

UWS also provides flexible learning opportunities through campus-based and online programmes. These options allow students to explore educational pathways that align with their academic qualifications and professional objectives.

The university's Portland campus provides access to academic resources, professional learning environments, and the wider healthcare community. Its programmes attract students interested in chiropractic care, nutrition, functional medicine, psychology, and other specialised disciplines.

University of Western States continues to focus on preparing graduates who can contribute to healthcare services, research, professional practice, and community well-being.

Why Choose University of Western States?

Choosing a university for specialised healthcare education requires consideration of academic quality, professional preparation, programme structure, practical training, and future career opportunities. University of Western States offers several features that make it worth exploring for students interested in these areas.

Established Healthcare Education Institution

Founded in 1904, UWS has a long history of providing specialised education in chiropractic and other healthcare-related disciplines. Its academic experience contributes to its focus on professional preparation and scientific learning.

Specialised Academic Programmes

The university provides programmes in chiropractic, clinical nutrition, functional medicine, occupational therapy, clinical mental health counselling, and sport and performance psychology.

Evidence-Based Education

Academic programmes emphasise scientific research, evidence-based practice, and professional decision-making. Students learn to evaluate information and apply appropriate knowledge in their selected fields.

Practical and Hands-On Training

UWS incorporates practical learning, simulated activities, and professional training into its educational approach. Depending on the programme, students may participate in clinical preparation and supervised learning experiences.

Flexible Learning Options

The university provides both on-campus and online learning opportunities across selected programmes. This flexibility can help students choose an educational format that suits their academic and professional circumstances.

International Student Support

International applicants can access guidance regarding admission requirements, transcript evaluation, English-language proficiency, financial documentation, and student visa procedures.

Professional Development Opportunities

The university's specialised academic environment helps students develop professional knowledge, communication abilities, research skills, and practical competencies relevant to healthcare careers.

Academic Programs and Courses

University of Western States provides specialised academic programmes through its academic colleges and departments. Its curriculum focuses on healthcare, nutrition, rehabilitation, psychology, and professional development.

The institution offers different qualification levels, including bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and graduate certificate programmes. Programme availability and admission requirements vary according to the selected field.

College of Chiropractic

The College of Chiropractic is one of the university's major academic divisions. It provides professional education for students interested in chiropractic healthcare and related areas of clinical practice.

The college focuses on anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, clinical assessment, patient communication, and evidence-based approaches to healthcare.

Doctor of Chiropractic

The Doctor of Chiropractic programme prepares students for professional chiropractic practice. Its curriculum combines scientific foundations, clinical knowledge, diagnostic principles, and practical training.

Students study areas such as:

• Human Anatomy
• Physiology
• Biochemistry
• Neurology
• Biomechanics
• Clinical Assessment
• Chiropractic Principles
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Patient Communication
• Evidence-Based Healthcare

The programme includes classroom instruction, laboratory activities, practical learning, and clinical education.

Students develop an understanding of musculoskeletal health, patient evaluation, professional ethics, and appropriate clinical decision-making.

Applicants should understand that chiropractic is a regulated profession in the United States. Graduates must satisfy applicable examination and licensing requirements before practising independently.

Bachelor of Science in Human Biology

The university's Bachelor of Science in Human Biology provides undergraduate-level education in biological and health sciences.

The programme focuses on understanding the structure and functioning of the human body, scientific principles, and foundational knowledge relevant to advanced healthcare education.

Students can explore subjects such as human anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, and related scientific disciplines.

This degree may provide an academic foundation for students interested in further education in chiropractic and other health-related areas, subject to the admission requirements of their intended programmes.

Master of Science in Sports Medicine

The Master of Science in Sports Medicine is designed for students interested in sports-related healthcare, physical performance, injury prevention, and human movement.

The programme is associated with the Doctor of Chiropractic curriculum and must be pursued concurrently under the university's programme requirements.

Students can develop knowledge of sports injuries, exercise science, rehabilitation principles, performance assessment, and related healthcare topics.

College of Graduate Studies

The College of Graduate Studies provides specialised programmes for students seeking advanced education in healthcare, nutrition, counselling, and sports psychology.

Its programmes combine academic instruction, research, professional development, and practical learning.

Clinical Nutrition and Functional Medicine

University of Western States offers academic pathways in clinical nutrition and functional medicine for students interested in nutrition science, health promotion, and comprehensive wellness.

Doctor of Clinical Nutrition

The Doctor of Clinical Nutrition programme focuses on advanced knowledge of nutrition science and its relationship with health and disease prevention.

Students explore subjects such as:

• Advanced Nutrition Science
• Human Physiology
• Nutritional Biochemistry
• Clinical Nutrition Assessment
• Functional Medicine
• Research Methods
• Evidence-Based Practice
• Professional Ethics

The programme is intended for individuals seeking advanced education in nutrition and related healthcare fields.

Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition and Functional Medicine

The master's programme provides specialised education in clinical nutrition and functional medicine.

Students study nutritional principles, health assessment, dietary interventions, research, and the relationship between nutrition and overall health.

The programme combines scientific knowledge with practical applications to prepare students for professional opportunities in nutrition-related fields.

Graduate Certificate in Clinical Nutrition and Functional Medicine

The graduate certificate offers a focused educational pathway for students interested in developing additional knowledge of clinical nutrition and functional medicine.

Its structure allows students to explore specialised subjects without necessarily pursuing a complete master's or doctoral qualification.

Sport and Performance Psychology

The university offers academic programmes in sport and performance psychology for students interested in understanding the psychological factors influencing athletic performance and human achievement.

Master of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology

This programme focuses on the relationship between psychological processes, performance, motivation, and personal development.

Students can explore areas such as:

• Sport Psychology
• Performance Motivation
• Mental Skills Training
• Performance Assessment
• Psychological Research
• Applied Psychology
• Professional Ethics

The programme can support students interested in working with athletes, sports organisations, performance professionals, and related communities.

Doctor of Education in Sport and Performance Psychology

The Doctor of Education in Sport and Performance Psychology is an advanced programme designed for students interested in leadership, professional practice, and specialised knowledge in performance psychology.

Students explore advanced psychological concepts, research, professional development, and applied approaches to improving performance.

The university also offers a clinical mental health counselling specialisation within its doctoral programme structure.

Graduate Certificate in Applied Sport Psychology

This certificate provides focused education in applied sport psychology.

Students can develop knowledge of psychological strategies, performance improvement, mental skills, and the application of psychology in sports environments.

Occupational Therapy

University of Western States also offers a Doctor of Occupational Therapy programme for students interested in occupational therapy and rehabilitation-related professional practice.

The programme focuses on helping individuals develop, recover, or maintain the skills required for everyday activities and independent living.

Students explore areas such as:

• Human Anatomy and Physiology
• Occupational Therapy Principles
• Rehabilitation
• Functional Assessment
• Therapeutic Interventions
• Human Development
• Clinical Reasoning
• Professional Practice

The programme combines academic instruction with practical and fieldwork-related learning experiences.

Students interested in occupational therapy should review the programme's specific admission requirements, clinical education structure, and professional licensing considerations.

Clinical Mental Health Counselling

The university provides graduate-level educational opportunities in clinical mental health counselling and related areas.

These programmes focus on understanding mental health, counselling approaches, human behaviour, professional ethics, and client support.

Students may explore subjects such as:

• Counselling Theories
• Human Development
• Mental Health Assessment
• Psychological Foundations
• Professional Ethics
• Rehabilitation Counselling
• Clinical Practice
• Research Methods

These programmes are intended for students interested in counselling, mental health services, and related professional fields.

Students should review the applicable state licensing requirements before choosing a programme intended to support professional counselling practice.

Admission Requirements at University of Western States

University of Western States welcomes applications from domestic and international students interested in its specialised academic programmes.

Admission requirements depend on the programme, academic qualification, previous educational background, and professional experience where applicable.

Unlike traditional undergraduate universities, many UWS programmes require applicants to hold a qualifying degree before admission.

General Admission Requirements

Applicants generally need to prepare the following documents:

• Completed online application form.
• Official academic transcripts from previously attended institutions.
• Qualifying degree from an appropriately accredited institution, where required.
• Letters of recommendation from relevant academic or professional references.
• Personal statement explaining academic interests and professional goals.
• Prerequisite course information where required.
• English-language proficiency results for international applicants.
• Additional programme-specific documentation.

Applicants should carefully review the admission requirements for their selected programme because requirements may differ between chiropractic, occupational therapy, nutrition, counselling, and psychology programmes.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Students interested in the Bachelor of Science in Human Biology should review the university's undergraduate admission requirements.

Applicants generally need to demonstrate completion of secondary school education or an equivalent qualification.

Required documentation may include:

• Official high school transcripts.
• Academic certificates.
• English-language proficiency documentation, where applicable.
• Personal and educational information.
• Additional application materials requested by the admissions office.

International applicants should ensure that their educational documents are available in English or accompanied by appropriate certified translations.

Graduate Admission Requirements

Students applying for graduate programmes generally need a recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent academic qualification.

Depending on the selected programme, applicants may need to satisfy additional academic prerequisites.

Common requirements include:

• Bachelor's degree from a recognised institution.
• Official university transcripts.
• Minimum academic performance specified by the programme.
• Letters of recommendation.
• Personal statement.
• Prerequisite coursework where applicable.
• English-language proficiency documentation for international applicants.

Certain doctoral programmes may require additional academic or professional preparation.

English Language Proficiency Requirements

International applicants whose primary language is not English generally need to demonstrate English-language proficiency.

The university accepts several recognised English-language examinations.

Published minimum requirements include:

• TOEFL iBT: 89
• TOEFL Paper-Based: 550
• TOEFL Computer-Based: 213
• IELTS Academic: 6.5
• Pearson Test of English: 56
• Duolingo English Test: 120

Applicants may qualify for an exemption if they have completed an eligible undergraduate or graduate degree, or at least 60 credit hours, at an institution where English was the language of instruction.

English-language test scores must generally be submitted directly by the testing organisation and must satisfy the university's validity requirements.

International Transcript Evaluation

International students who hold qualifying degrees from institutions outside the United States or Canada may need to submit an academic credential evaluation.

The evaluation generally needs to provide:

• US educational equivalency of the qualification.
• Course-by-course academic information.
• Grade-point average equivalency.
• Verified educational records.

The university recommends recognised credential evaluation organisations, including World Education Services International Credential Advantage Package (WES ICAP), International Education Evaluations (IEE), and other NACES-affiliated services.

Applicants are responsible for the cost of their credential evaluations.

How to Apply to University of Western States

International applicants can follow a structured application process to apply for their chosen programme.

Step 1: Select an Academic Programme

Explore the university's academic offerings and select a programme that matches your previous education and professional objectives.

Step 2: Review Eligibility Requirements

Check the required academic qualifications, prerequisite courses, English-language proficiency standards, and programme-specific admission criteria.

Step 3: Request Programme Information

Prospective students can contact the admissions team to understand programme structures, application requirements, and available study options.

Step 4: Complete the Online Application

Submit the university's online application form with accurate personal, educational, and academic information.

Step 5: Submit Academic Documents

Arrange for official transcripts, degree certificates, recommendation letters, and other supporting documents to be submitted.

Step 6: Complete Transcript Evaluation

If required, arrange for international academic credentials to be evaluated through an approved credential evaluation service.

Step 7: Submit English Proficiency Results

Provide official TOEFL, IELTS, Pearson, or Duolingo results when required.

Step 8: Complete Financial Documentation

International students planning to study on campus must prepare evidence of sufficient financial support for immigration documentation.

Step 9: Receive the Admission Decision

Monitor the application portal and respond to additional requests from the admissions office.

Step 10: Complete Immigration Procedures

Eligible international students admitted to on-campus programmes can proceed with the required I-20 documentation and F-1 student visa process.

Tuition Fees and Cost of Studying at University of Western States

Understanding tuition fees is important for students planning to pursue specialised healthcare education at University of Western States.

Unlike institutions that charge one standard undergraduate tuition rate, UWS uses different fee structures depending on the selected programme and billing arrangement.

The university publishes programme-specific tuition and fee schedules. Students should review the applicable academic year's rates before preparing their financial plans.

Tuition Fee Structure

The university's 2026–2027 tuition schedule includes different rates for its professional and graduate programmes.

Programme	Published Tuition Structure
Doctor of Chiropractic	USD 12,632 per term
Doctor of Occupational Therapy	USD 16,840 per semester
Doctor of Clinical Nutrition	USD 799 per credit hour
MS Clinical Nutrition and Functional Medicine	USD 641 per credit hour

These figures represent published programme tuition rates and should not be interpreted as complete annual attendance costs.

Other expenses may include university fees, books, course materials, housing, food, transportation, health-related expenses, and personal costs.

Additional Study Expenses

International students should consider the following expenses when preparing their financial plans:

• Tuition and programme fees.
• Academic books and learning materials.
• Accommodation and housing.
• Food and daily living expenses.
• Transportation.
• Personal expenses.
• Immigration and visa-related charges.
• Credential evaluation costs.

The final cost depends on programme duration, credit requirements, course registration, and individual living arrangements.

Students should contact the university's financial services or admissions team for a personalised estimate.

Scholarships and Financial Aid at University of Western States

University of Western States provides financial assistance opportunities designed to help eligible students manage their educational expenses.

The university offers institutional scholarships, private financial aid resources, and programme-related funding opportunities.

International Student Scholarships

UWS offers institutional scholarship opportunities specifically for eligible international students.

These scholarships are intended to help qualified applicants manage the financial commitment associated with specialised higher education.

Eligibility, award values, and application requirements depend on the current scholarship policies and the student's selected programme.

Academic and Institutional Scholarships

Students may explore scholarships based on academic performance, educational background, professional goals, and other eligibility considerations.

Some awards may be available automatically through the admission process, while others may require additional documentation.

Private Financial Aid

Students can explore private financial assistance options where eligible.

Private educational funding may include external scholarships, education loans, and other financial arrangements available through recognised organisations.

International applicants should review the eligibility conditions carefully because funding availability can vary according to nationality, programme, and immigration status.

Financial Planning for International Students

Students planning to study in the United States should prepare a realistic financial plan before beginning their programme.

Important considerations include:

• Total programme tuition.
• Additional academic fees.
• Accommodation and living costs.
• Available scholarships.
• External financial support.
• Immigration financial documentation.
• Emergency and personal expenses.

Students should contact the university's financial aid team to confirm available scholarships and funding options.

Campus Facilities and Accommodation

University of Western States provides educational facilities and learning resources that support specialised healthcare education.

Its Portland campus is designed to support academic instruction, research, professional development, and practical training.

Academic and Learning Facilities

The university provides academic environments where students can participate in lectures, discussions, practical activities, and specialised educational sessions.

Students can access learning resources relevant to their chosen programmes, including academic materials, digital resources, and professional training facilities.

Clinical and Practical Learning Facilities

Practical training is an important component of healthcare education at UWS.

Depending on the programme, students may participate in simulated learning activities, clinical preparation, supervised practical experiences, and professional training.

These opportunities help students understand professional responsibilities and apply theoretical knowledge in practical situations.

Library and Research Resources

Students can access academic and research resources that support coursework, independent study, and scientific investigation.

Research materials and digital resources help students develop evidence-based approaches to professional practice.

Student Accommodation

University of Western States does not operate as a traditional residential campus with a comprehensive university-managed dormitory system.

International students should make their own accommodation arrangements in Portland.

Available housing options may include:

• Private apartments.
• Shared rental accommodation.
• Student housing facilities.
• Homestay arrangements.
• Other privately managed residential options.

The university can provide housing-related support documentation where necessary for international students.

Students should research accommodation options and living expenses before travelling to Portland.

Technology and Online Learning

UWS provides online learning options for selected programmes.

Digital educational resources allow students to access course materials, participate in online learning activities, and engage with academic content remotely.

The availability of online study depends on the selected programme and its specific academic requirements.

Student Life at University of Western States

Student life at University of Western States is shaped by its specialised academic environment and focus on professional education.

Students from different academic and cultural backgrounds come together to pursue qualifications in healthcare, nutrition, psychology, and related disciplines.

Academic Community

The university promotes a learning environment where students can engage with instructors, discuss professional topics, and collaborate on academic activities.

This environment encourages knowledge sharing, professional communication, and interdisciplinary understanding.

Professional Networking

Students can develop professional relationships through academic activities, faculty interactions, research opportunities, and healthcare-related events.

These connections can help students understand professional expectations and explore future career pathways.

Cultural Diversity

International students bring different educational experiences and cultural perspectives to the university community.

Studying alongside students from different backgrounds can encourage cross-cultural communication and professional collaboration.

Personal Development

The university's educational approach encourages students to develop critical thinking, ethical awareness, communication, and problem-solving abilities.

These qualities are particularly important in healthcare-related professions that involve working with individuals and communities.

Student Engagement

Students can explore academic events, professional activities, research discussions, and community engagement opportunities depending on their programme and campus involvement.

International Student Support Services

University of Western States provides resources to help international applicants understand admission procedures and prepare for studying in the United States.

The university's international admissions team assists students with educational documentation, English-language requirements, immigration procedures, and other important application matters.

Pre-Arrival Guidance

International students should complete the necessary academic and financial arrangements before travelling to the United States.

The university provides information about admission documentation, transcript evaluations, financial support requirements, and immigration procedures.

I-20 Documentation

UWS is authorised to issue Form I-20 documents for eligible international students admitted to approved on-campus programmes.

Students must complete the admission process and provide the required financial documentation before receiving their I-20.

F-1 Student Visa Assistance

Students planning to study on campus generally need to obtain an appropriate F-1 student visa.

The university's designated school officials can provide guidance concerning immigration documentation and student visa procedures.

International applicants should remember that visa eligibility depends on the programme's delivery format and applicable immigration rules.

Financial Documentation

Students applying for an I-20 must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover one academic year of educational expenses.

Acceptable financial documentation may include:

• Official bank statements.
• Bank letters confirming available funds.
• Scholarship award letters.
• Government funding documents.
• Financial support documents from parents or sponsors.

Applicants using a parent or sponsor as a financial supporter may need to submit additional sponsor documentation.

Academic Guidance

Students can contact the relevant academic departments and admissions representatives for guidance concerning programme requirements, course structures, and educational planning.

These resources help international students understand their responsibilities and prepare for their academic journey.

Research Opportunities and Practical Learning

Research and evidence-based education are central to the academic approach at University of Western States.

The university encourages students to understand scientific research and apply relevant findings to professional healthcare practice.

Healthcare Research

Students can explore research related to chiropractic, nutrition, human movement, rehabilitation, and other healthcare disciplines.

Research activities help students understand scientific methods, analyse evidence, and evaluate professional approaches.

Clinical and Practical Training

Healthcare-related programmes incorporate practical education to help students develop professional competencies.

Depending on the selected programme, students may participate in laboratory activities, simulated environments, clinical preparation, and supervised learning experiences.

Evidence-Based Practice

Evidence-based practice encourages healthcare professionals to use scientific research, professional expertise, and relevant individual circumstances when making decisions.

UWS incorporates this approach into its educational philosophy.

Students learn to evaluate research, understand professional guidelines, and apply appropriate knowledge in their selected fields.

Interdisciplinary Learning

The university encourages students to understand the relationship between different areas of healthcare.

For example, nutrition students may explore the relationship between dietary patterns and health, while sport psychology students examine the influence of psychological factors on performance.

This interdisciplinary approach supports a broader understanding of whole-person health and professional practice.

Career Opportunities and Employment Prospects

University of Western States prepares students for professional opportunities across healthcare, rehabilitation, nutrition, sports performance, and related industries.

Career pathways depend on the selected qualification, professional licensing requirements, clinical experience, and individual career objectives.

Career Opportunities by Academic Field

Academic Field	Potential Career Opportunities
Chiropractic	Chiropractor, Chiropractic Clinic Professional
Clinical Nutrition	Clinical Nutrition Professional, Nutrition Consultant
Functional Medicine	Functional Health Practitioner, Wellness Consultant
Occupational Therapy	Occupational Therapist
Sport and Performance Psychology	Sport Psychology Professional, Performance Consultant
Clinical Mental Health Counselling	Mental Health Counsellor, Rehabilitation Counsellor
Sports Medicine	Sports Medicine Professional, Performance Support Specialist
Human Biology	Research Assistant, Laboratory Professional

These are potential career pathways rather than guaranteed employment outcomes. Some roles require professional examinations, licences, supervised experience, or additional qualifications.

Professional Development

Students can develop professional skills through academic assignments, research projects, practical training, and interactions with experienced instructors.

These experiences help students understand professional standards and workplace expectations.

Healthcare and Wellness Industries

Graduates may explore employment opportunities in healthcare organisations, private practices, rehabilitation facilities, sports organisations, wellness services, research institutions, and related professional environments.

Professional Licensing Considerations

Certain healthcare professions are regulated in the United States.

Graduates may need to complete professional examinations, licensing procedures, supervised practice, or additional state-specific requirements before beginning independent professional practice.

International students should also understand the employment restrictions associated with their immigration status.

Studying in Portland, Oregon

Portland is one of the major cities in Oregon and provides an urban environment with opportunities in healthcare, technology, education, research, and business.

The city is recognised for its cultural diversity, natural surroundings, public transportation, and access to outdoor recreation.

Healthcare and Professional Environment

Portland has a developed healthcare sector with hospitals, clinics, medical organisations, rehabilitation services, and other healthcare-related institutions.

This environment provides opportunities for students to learn about the broader healthcare industry and explore professional connections.

Business and Employment Environment

The city's economy includes technology, healthcare, manufacturing, education, professional services, and creative industries.

Students can explore professional networking opportunities and learn about different career environments.

Cultural Attractions

Portland offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, music venues, restaurants, and public events.

Students can explore different neighbourhoods and cultural destinations while experiencing the city's lifestyle.

Outdoor Recreation

Portland provides access to parks, hiking trails, rivers, and natural landscapes.

Students can explore outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, and recreational sports.

Cost of Living

Living expenses in Portland depend on accommodation, transportation, food, and personal spending habits.

International students should prepare a financial plan that includes housing, meals, transportation, healthcare, and other everyday expenses.

The cost of living may vary considerably depending on whether students choose shared accommodation, private apartments, or other housing arrangements.

Application Deadlines and Important Considerations

Application deadlines at University of Western States vary depending on the selected programme and academic intake.

Some programmes may have different start dates, application requirements, and enrolment procedures.

International applicants should begin preparing their documents well in advance to allow sufficient time for academic evaluation, admission processing, financial arrangements, and immigration procedures.

Before applying, students should:

• Select a suitable academic programme.
• Review programme-specific admission requirements.
• Check whether a qualifying bachelor's degree is required.
• Prepare official academic transcripts.
• Complete an international credential evaluation if necessary.
• Meet English-language proficiency requirements.
• Prepare recommendation letters and personal statements.
• Review tuition fees and additional expenses.
• Explore scholarship opportunities.
• Prepare financial documentation.
• Understand student visa requirements.
• Confirm whether the selected programme supports international on-campus enrolment.

Applicants should consult the university's current academic calendar and admissions office for the latest programme deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is University of Western States a public or private university?

University of Western States is a private university located in Portland, Oregon, United States.

2. When was University of Western States established?

The university was established in 1904 and has more than a century of experience in specialised healthcare education.

3. Where is University of Western States located?

The university is located in Portland, Oregon, United States.

4. What programmes does University of Western States offer?

The university offers programmes in chiropractic, human biology, clinical nutrition, functional medicine, occupational therapy, clinical mental health counselling, sports medicine, and sport and performance psychology.

5. Does University of Western States accept international students?

Yes. The university welcomes international applicants and provides information about admission requirements, academic credential evaluation, English-language proficiency, and immigration procedures.

6. What is the IELTS requirement for international applicants?

The published minimum IELTS Academic score for international admission is 6.5. Applicants should verify the current requirement for their selected programme.

7. Does University of Western States offer scholarships?

Yes. The university provides institutional scholarship opportunities for eligible international students, along with other financial assistance resources.

8. Can international students receive an I-20 from UWS?

Yes. The university is authorised to issue I-20 documents for eligible international students admitted to approved on-campus programmes after the required documentation is completed.

9. Does University of Western States offer online programmes?

Yes. The university offers online and campus-based learning options for selected academic programmes. Availability depends on the programme.

10. Does University of Western States offer undergraduate education?

Yes. The university's 2026–2027 academic catalogue includes a Bachelor of Science in Human Biology, alongside graduate and doctoral programmes.

Conclusion

University of Western States offers specialised higher education opportunities for students interested in healthcare, chiropractic, clinical nutrition, occupational therapy, sports medicine, and performance psychology. Established in 1904, the institution has developed an academic environment focused on scientific research, evidence-based practice, and professional preparation.

Its academic programmes combine theoretical instruction with practical learning and opportunities to develop specialised professional knowledge. The university also provides online and campus-based study options, international admission guidance, and scholarship opportunities for eligible students.

Located in Portland, Oregon, UWS offers students access to an urban environment with healthcare organisations, professional networks, cultural attractions, and recreational opportunities.

For international students interested in advanced healthcare education in the United States, University of Western States is an institution worth exploring. Applicants should carefully evaluate programme eligibility, tuition costs, professional licensing requirements, and visa considerations before submitting an application.