Pacific Islander and Asian American Studies

The Pacific Islander and Asian American (PIAA) Studies initiative at Portland State University uses an interdisciplinary framework to examine the social, cultural, and historical experiences of Pacific Islander and Asian American communities. Courses integrate theory with lived experience, encourage community-engaged learning, and center voices and knowledge production from within Pacific Islander and Asian American traditions.

PIAA Studies was the first academic space at PSU where I truly felt seen. In PIAA Studies, Asian American histories and lived experiences were not treated like an add-on, they were centered.
-Andrew Duong, Healthcare Administration major

PSU professor and students during art activity

PIAA Studies minor launching Fall 2026

The 24-credit minor explores the rich histories, cultures, and experiences of Pacific Islander and Asian American communities through the lens of ethnic studies, history, literature, sociology, anthropology, political science, and more.

View Minor Requirements

Support PIAA Studies at PSU 🌺📚

The Pacific Islander and Asian American (PIAA) Studies initiative at Portland State University is more than an academic program — it’s a space where culture, history, and lived experience come together to inspire meaningful change.

Support PIAA Studies

PIAA IN THE NEWS

Rooted in Culture, Making Waves at PSU

by Cristina Rojas | October 6th 2025

On a warm June afternoon, an otherwise drab conference room at Portland State University buzzed with excitement as Portland's Pacific Islander communities gathered under one roof. Colorful prints and familiar greetings filled the room as members of...

PSU nets $2 million to expand support for PIAA students

by Cristina Rojas | October 4th 2023

Portland State has been awarded a nearly $2 million federal grant to expand support, resources and services for Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) students, a testament to the years-long advocacy from students, faculty and staff to better meet their diverse needs.

Push for PIAA at PSU makes gains

by Cristina Rojas | May 31st 2022

Eli Vossler will graduate from Portland State this June with a bachelor's in social work, but for all he has learned, he says there's a topic that's been noticeably absent from his education: an understanding of his personal history, identity and culture as an Asian American.