Pacific Lutheran University
Inquiry. Service. Leadership. Care.
📍 Tacoma, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #255 in United States
Quick Facts about Pacific Lutheran University
- Type: Private
- Students: 2,754
- International: 3%
- Campus: Suburban
- Tuition: $53,831 – $53,831/year
- Language: English
- Intakes: September, January, February, June
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.
Information for International Students at Pacific Lutheran University
Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, United States welcomes international students, with 3% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 3% of students are international
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for Pacific Lutheran University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Pacific Lutheran University:
- IELTS minimum: 6.5
- TOEFL minimum: 79
- Duolingo minimum: 115
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: February 1
Scholarships & Tuition at Pacific Lutheran University
Annual tuition for international students: $53,831 – $53,831/year
✅ Pacific Lutheran University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Pacific Lutheran University
- National Ranking: #255 in United States
- Ranking tier: Research University
Campus & Facilities at Pacific Lutheran University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- No disability support info
- Campus type: Suburban
Key Highlights
- Lutheran-affiliated liberal arts university
- Strong undergraduate teaching recognized
- Supports international student development
- Nursing, Business, Psychology top programs
- Beautiful 156-acre woodland campus
Accreditation
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- AACSB International – The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy
- National Association of Schools of Music (NASM)
- Council on Social Work Education
- Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET
Notable Alumni
- Connor Trinneer
- Marissa Meyer
- Sean Parnell
- Rick Larsen
- Lois Capps
Frequently Asked Questions about Pacific Lutheran University
What is Pacific Lutheran University?
Pacific Lutheran University is a private university located in Tacoma, United States. It has approximately 2,754 students, with 3% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at Pacific Lutheran University?
Tuition fees at Pacific Lutheran University for international students range from $53,831 – $53,831/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Pacific Lutheran University?
IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 79. Duolingo minimum: 115. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: February 1.
What language are courses taught in at Pacific Lutheran University?
Courses at Pacific Lutheran University are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
What is Pacific Lutheran University ranked?
#255 in United States.
Does Pacific Lutheran University offer scholarships?
Yes, Pacific Lutheran University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Pacific Lutheran University provide visa support?
Yes, Pacific Lutheran University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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