Pacific Lutheran
Thoughtful inquiry, purposeful living.
📍 Tacoma, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #255 in United States
Quick Facts about Pacific Lutheran
- Tuition: $52,256 – $53,831/year
About Pacific Lutheran
Academics
PLU offers over 40 undergraduate majors and various graduate programs across four colleges: the College of Health Professions; the College of Humanities, Interdisciplinary Studies, and Social Sciences; the College of Natural Sciences; and the College of Professional Studies. The teaching approach centers on experiential learning, encouraging students to engage in critical thinking and problem-solving. Popular programs include Nursing, Business, Psychology, Kinesiology and Exercise Science, and Elementary Education, with the Nursing program being particularly well-regarded for its comprehensive coursework and clinical placements. The English department, for example, offers concentrations in Creative Writing, Literature, and Professional, Public, and Digital Literacies, preparing students for diverse careers requiring strong communication and analytical skills.
International Students
PLU provides various support services for international students to ensure a smooth transition and a fulfilling educational experience. While specific diversity statistics for international students vary, one report indicates that 7% of the student body are international students, representing 17 countries, contributing to a diverse campus environment. The university offers English-taught programs across its curriculum. Cultural integration is supported through numerous student-led clubs and organizations, including identity or affinity groups, and opportunities to engage in student media like the campus newspaper, "The Mast," and student radio.
Campus & Location
PLU's 156-acre woodland campus is situated in Parkland, a suburban area just six miles south of Tacoma, Washington. Tacoma, known as the "City of Destiny," offers a vibrant city life with a love for arts, music, and a DIY culture. Campus features include academic and administration buildings, residence halls, an all-campus cafeteria, and the Anderson University Center, a hub for student life. Public transportation is readily available through Pierce Transit, with a transit center located just a block from campus, offering bus routes into downtown Tacoma and connections to other regional destinations like Seattle and Sea-Tac Airport. Nearby attractions include museums like the Museum of Glass and the Washington State History Museum, Point Defiance Park, and various shopping centers.
Career Outcomes
PLU demonstrates a strong commitment to preparing students for their future careers, with an overall graduation rate of 71%. Graduates from PLU earn an average of approximately $66,990 annually in their early careers, which is higher than the national average. The university offers career services and mentoring programs that connect students with alumni and industry professionals, providing valuable career advice, networking opportunities, and assistance with resume building and interview preparation. Popular majors for employment include Nursing, Business Administration, and Elementary Education. The university also facilitates internships, with a reported placement rate of over 80%, and provides guidance on Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for international students seeking work authorization.
Information for International Students at Pacific Lutheran
Pacific Lutheran in Tacoma, United States welcomes international students.
- No visa support offered
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available
Admissions Requirements for Pacific Lutheran
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Pacific Lutheran:
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
Programs at Pacific Lutheran (40 programs)
Pacific Lutheran offers 40 programs across Bachelor, Master levels.
Bachelor Programs (34)
- Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr · STEM
This program covers theoretical and practical aspects of computing, including programming, algorithms, data structures, and software engineering, preparing students for technology careers.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Web Developer, Data Scientist - Global Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr
This interdisciplinary program examines global issues, cultures, and interconnectedness, fostering a critical understanding of international relations, development, and social justice.
Field: International Relations
Career outcomes: Diplomat, NGO Worker, International Aid Worker - Political Science (BA) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr
This program analyzes political systems, theories, and behaviors, covering areas like public policy, international relations, and comparative politics.
Field: Political Science
Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Lobbyist, Campaign Manager - Mathematics (BSc) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr · STEM
This program develops strong analytical and problem-solving skills through the study of calculus, algebra, statistics, and discrete mathematics, applicable to various STEM fields.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, Statistician, Actuary - Nursing (BSc) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr · STEM
The program prepares students for professional nursing practice, emphasizing patient-centered care, clinical skills, and ethical decision-making in various healthcare settings.
Field: Nursing
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Public Health Nurse - Kinesiology (BSc) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr · STEM
Students study human movement, exercise science, and physical activity, preparing for careers in health promotion, sports performance, and rehabilitation.
Field: Kinesiology
Career outcomes: Physical Therapist, Athletic Trainer, Fitness Professional - Social Work (BA) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr
Students learn to advocate for social justice and provide direct services to individuals, families, and communities, focusing on ethical practice and human rights.
Field: Social Work
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Case Manager, Advocate - Art (BA) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr
Students explore various artistic mediums and techniques, including painting, sculpture, drawing, and digital art, fostering creativity and critical artistic expression.
Field: Art
Career outcomes: Artist, Graphic Designer, Art Educator - Biology (BSc) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr · STEM
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of living organisms, from molecular to ecosystem levels, preparing students for careers in research, healthcare, and environmental science.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Assistant, Environmental Scientist - Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr
Students explore human behavior and mental processes through scientific inquiry, covering areas like cognitive psychology, social psychology, and developmental psychology.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Counselor, Social Worker, Research Assistant - Chemistry (BSc) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr · STEM
This program explores the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter, providing a strong foundation for careers in scientific research, industry, and medicine.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Chemist, Pharmacist, Materials Scientist - Music (BA) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr
This program offers comprehensive training in music theory, history, performance, and composition, fostering artistic expression and critical musicianship.
Field: Music
Career outcomes: Musician, Music Educator, Composer - Theatre (BA) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr
This program provides practical and theoretical training in acting, directing, design, and theatre history, fostering creative expression and collaborative skills.
Field: Theatre
Career outcomes: Actor, Director, Stage Manager - Business Administration (BA) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr
Students gain foundational knowledge in management, marketing, finance, and economics, developing critical thinking and leadership skills essential for diverse business careers.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Analyst, Marketing Manager, Financial Advisor - English (BA) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr
Students engage with literature, critical theory, and creative writing, developing advanced analytical, communication, and interpretive skills applicable to various professions.
Field: English
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Journalist - Physics (BSc) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr · STEM
Students explore the fundamental laws of the universe, covering mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, and relativity, preparing for research or engineering fields.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Physicist, Engineer, Data Scientist - Environmental Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr
An interdisciplinary program examining environmental issues from scientific, social, and policy perspectives, preparing students for careers in sustainability and conservation.
Field: Environmental Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Consultant, Conservationist, Policy Analyst - Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr · STEM
This program covers theoretical and practical aspects of computing, including programming, algorithms, data structures, and software engineering, preparing students for technology careers.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Web Developer, Data Scientist - Global Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr
This interdisciplinary program examines global issues, cultures, and interconnectedness, fostering a critical understanding of international relations, development, and social justice.
Field: International Relations
Career outcomes: Diplomat, NGO Worker, International Aid Worker - Political Science (BA) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr
This program analyzes political systems, theories, and behaviors, covering areas like public policy, international relations, and comparative politics.
Field: Political Science
Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Lobbyist, Campaign Manager - Mathematics (BSc) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr · STEM
This program develops strong analytical and problem-solving skills through the study of calculus, algebra, statistics, and discrete mathematics, applicable to various STEM fields.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, Statistician, Actuary - Nursing (BSc) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr · STEM
The program prepares students for professional nursing practice, emphasizing patient-centered care, clinical skills, and ethical decision-making in various healthcare settings.
Field: Nursing
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Public Health Nurse - Kinesiology (BSc) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr · STEM
Students study human movement, exercise science, and physical activity, preparing for careers in health promotion, sports performance, and rehabilitation.
Field: Kinesiology
Career outcomes: Physical Therapist, Athletic Trainer, Fitness Professional - Social Work (BA) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr
Students learn to advocate for social justice and provide direct services to individuals, families, and communities, focusing on ethical practice and human rights.
Field: Social Work
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Case Manager, Advocate - Art (BA) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr
Students explore various artistic mediums and techniques, including painting, sculpture, drawing, and digital art, fostering creativity and critical artistic expression.
Field: Art
Career outcomes: Artist, Graphic Designer, Art Educator - Biology (BSc) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr · STEM
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of living organisms, from molecular to ecosystem levels, preparing students for careers in research, healthcare, and environmental science.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Assistant, Environmental Scientist - Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr
Students explore human behavior and mental processes through scientific inquiry, covering areas like cognitive psychology, social psychology, and developmental psychology.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Counselor, Social Worker, Research Assistant - Chemistry (BSc) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr · STEM
This program explores the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter, providing a strong foundation for careers in scientific research, industry, and medicine.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Chemist, Pharmacist, Materials Scientist - Music (BA) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr
This program offers comprehensive training in music theory, history, performance, and composition, fostering artistic expression and critical musicianship.
Field: Music
Career outcomes: Musician, Music Educator, Composer - Theatre (BA) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr
This program provides practical and theoretical training in acting, directing, design, and theatre history, fostering creative expression and collaborative skills.
Field: Theatre
Career outcomes: Actor, Director, Stage Manager - Business Administration (BA) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr
Students gain foundational knowledge in management, marketing, finance, and economics, developing critical thinking and leadership skills essential for diverse business careers.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Analyst, Marketing Manager, Financial Advisor - English (BA) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr
Students engage with literature, critical theory, and creative writing, developing advanced analytical, communication, and interpretive skills applicable to various professions.
Field: English
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Journalist - Physics (BSc) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr · STEM
Students explore the fundamental laws of the universe, covering mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, and relativity, preparing for research or engineering fields.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Physicist, Engineer, Data Scientist - Environmental Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $49,970/yr
An interdisciplinary program examining environmental issues from scientific, social, and policy perspectives, preparing students for careers in sustainability and conservation.
Field: Environmental Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Consultant, Conservationist, Policy Analyst
Master Programs (6)
- Marriage and Family Therapy (MSc) — 24 months · English · $20,000/yr
The program trains students to become licensed therapists, focusing on systemic approaches to family and relationship issues, clinical assessment, and intervention strategies.
Field: Therapy
Career outcomes: Marriage and Family Therapist, Counselor, Clinical Supervisor - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English · $25,000/yr
This MBA program develops strategic leadership and management skills, covering advanced topics in finance, marketing, operations, and global business for aspiring executives.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: CEO, Consultant, Senior Manager - Education (MA) — 24 months · English · $18,000/yr
This master's program focuses on advanced pedagogical theories, curriculum development, and educational leadership, preparing educators for enhanced roles in schools and administration.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Teacher, School Administrator, Curriculum Specialist - Marriage and Family Therapy (MSc) — 24 months · English · $20,000/yr
The program trains students to become licensed therapists, focusing on systemic approaches to family and relationship issues, clinical assessment, and intervention strategies.
Field: Therapy
Career outcomes: Marriage and Family Therapist, Counselor, Clinical Supervisor - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English · $25,000/yr
This MBA program develops strategic leadership and management skills, covering advanced topics in finance, marketing, operations, and global business for aspiring executives.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: CEO, Consultant, Senior Manager - Education (MA) — 24 months · English · $18,000/yr
This master's program focuses on advanced pedagogical theories, curriculum development, and educational leadership, preparing educators for enhanced roles in schools and administration.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Teacher, School Administrator, Curriculum Specialist
Scholarships & Tuition at Pacific Lutheran
Annual tuition for international students: $52,256 – $53,831/year
Visit the university's financial aid page for the latest scholarship information.
Rankings of Pacific Lutheran
- National Ranking: #255 in United States
- Ranking tier: Research University
Campus & Facilities at Pacific Lutheran
- Student housing available
- No sports facilities
- No disability support info
Key Highlights
- Founded by Norwegian Lutherans
- Strong liberal arts and professional studies
- Well-regarded Nursing program
- Emphasizes experiential learning
- Diverse international student body
Frequently Asked Questions about Pacific Lutheran
What is Pacific Lutheran?
Pacific Lutheran is a university located in Tacoma, United States. .
How much does it cost to study at Pacific Lutheran?
Tuition fees at Pacific Lutheran for international students range from $52,256 – $53,831/year.
What are the admission requirements for Pacific Lutheran?
Selectivity: Open (60%+).
How many programs does Pacific Lutheran offer?
Pacific Lutheran offers 40 programs: 34 Bachelor's, 6 Master's, and 0 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Pacific Lutheran ranked?
#255 in United States.
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