Pacific Lutheran University
About Pacific Lutheran University
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. Notable programs include Nursing, Business, Psychology, Kinesiology and Exercise Science, and Elementary Education. The university emphasizes critical thinking, effective communication, and creative expression, preparing graduates for diverse careers in fields such as business, non-profits, publishing, law, media, and education. PLU has been recognized for its strong undergraduate teaching and commitment to academic excellence.
International Students
Pacific Lutheran University's International Student Services (ISS) is dedicated to supporting the academic and personal development of international students, offering assistance with F-1 and J-1 student visa regulations and providing programs for transition and adjustment. While specific diversity statistics for international students vary, one report indicates that international students make up about 7% of the student body, representing numerous countries. Scholarships and grants are available to admitted international students, with awards potentially renewable for up to three additional years. All programs at PLU are taught in English, and English proficiency can be demonstrated through various standardized tests or prior academic completion.
Campus & Location
PLU is situated on a 156-acre woodland campus in Parkland, a suburban area six miles south of Tacoma, Washington. Tacoma, Washington's third-largest city, offers a vibrant city life with over 200,000 residents. The campus is approximately a 40-minute drive from Seattle and 30 minutes from Olympia, the state capital. Campus features include the Anderson University Center, the Morken Center for Learning and Technology, and various libraries and study spaces. Nearby attractions include Mount Rainier National Park, the Museum of Glass, and Point Defiance Park.
Career Outcomes
PLU graduates demonstrate strong career outcomes, with 91% employed one year after graduation and 89% employed five years after graduation. The university's Career Services department provides comprehensive placement assistance, including personalized counseling, workshops on job search strategies, networking events, and career fairs. Many graduates find employment in their field of study, with 64% of employed recent alumni working in jobs related to their academic background. Popular fields for graduates include nursing, business administration, and elementary education.
Highlights
- Lutheran-affiliated liberal arts university
- Strong undergraduate teaching recognized
- Supports international student development
- Nursing, Business, Psychology top programs
- Beautiful 156-acre woodland campus
Student Life & Support
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Programs Offered at Pacific Lutheran University (33)
Offers programs in:
Bachelor Programs (28)
Theatre
Arts
Music
Arts
Accounting
Business
Finance
Business
Business Administration
Business
Computer Science
Computer Science
Elementary Education
Education
Secondary Education
Education
Environmental Studies
Environmental Science
Kinesiology
Health Sciences
Nursing
Health Sciences
History
Humanities
Art History
Humanities
Philosophy
Humanities
Religion
Humanities
English
Humanities
Mathematics
Mathematics
Chemistry
Natural Sciences
Biology
Natural Sciences
Physics
Natural Sciences
Sociology
Social Sciences
Communication
Social Sciences
Psychology
Social Sciences
Global Studies
Social Sciences
Criminal Justice
Social Sciences
Economics
Social Sciences
Political Science
Social Sciences
Social Work
Social Work
Master Programs (5)
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Business
Master of Science in Marketing Analytics
Business
Master of Business Administration
Business
$30,000/yr
Marriage and Family Therapy
Counseling
$20,000/yr
Education
Education
Pacific Lutheran University Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate
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