Overview
Founded in 1890, the Pacific Lutheran University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the small city of Tacoma (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Washington.
Officially accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, Pacific Lutheran University (PLU) is a small-sized coeducational US higher education institution formally affiliated with the Christian-Lutheran religion. Pacific Lutheran University (PLU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 134-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 80-89% making this US higher education organization a least selective institution.
International students are welcome to apply for enrollment.
PLU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Find Pacific Lutheran University on the map and its contact channels below.
Academic Details
Pacific Lutheran University's academic profile in numbers is listed below.
Academic Structures
The faculties, schools, and constituent units that make up Pacific Lutheran University are listed below.
Unit 9 items
- College of Arts and Sciences
- College of Health Professions
- College of Liberal Studies
- College of Natural Sciences
- College of Professional Studies
- School of Arts and Communication
- School of Business
- School of Education and Movement Studies
- School of Nursing
Programs Offered
Browse Pacific Lutheran University's programmes by level, or filter by name.
43 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 35 programmes
Showing 10 of 35.
Master's Degree 5 programmes
Professional Doctorate 1 programme
Certificate 2 programmes
Scholarships in United States
Below are scholarships available to students in the United States.
How to apply to Pacific Lutheran University
The application path for Pacific Lutheran University, in five steps.
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1
Identify the right programme
Begin by reviewing the programmes section above. Pacific Lutheran University offers 43 programmes grouped by qualification level. Decide on a target tier (bachelor's, master's, or doctoral) before narrowing by subject.
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2
Check entry requirements
Each programme at Pacific Lutheran University has its own entry requirements — academic minimums, language proficiency, supporting documents, and sometimes interviews or portfolios. Check the programme-specific page or contact admissions to confirm eligibility.
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3
Prepare your application documents
Most applications require certified academic records, identification documents, language test certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent for English-medium programmes), CV/résumé, and a statement of purpose. Allow extra time for document authentication.
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4
Submit via the institution
Apply directly via Pacific Lutheran University's online portal at www.plu.edu. Complete the application form, upload supporting documents, and pay any application fee. Confirmation emails typically arrive within a few business days.
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5
Get in touch with admissions
After submitting, confirm receipt with the admissions office and track your application status through the portal. You can reach the institution by email at [email protected] or by phone at +1 (253) 535 7411. Set reminders for any interview requests, additional document submissions, or admission decision deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pacific Lutheran University
A short Q&A covering Pacific Lutheran University's essentials — founding, location, and structure.
How old is Pacific Lutheran University?
The institution opened in 1890 (approximately 136 years ago).
What city is Pacific Lutheran University in?
Pacific Lutheran University operates from Tacoma, United States.
Is Pacific Lutheran University public or private?
Pacific Lutheran University operates as a private institution.
How big is Pacific Lutheran University's student body?
Pacific Lutheran University serves approximately 2,401 students.
What is Pacific Lutheran University's religious tradition?
Pacific Lutheran University operates within the Christian-Lutheran tradition.
How is Pacific Lutheran University organised academically?
Pacific Lutheran University is organised into 9 academic units across its disciplines.
Is Pacific Lutheran University officially recognised?
Yes, Pacific Lutheran University is recognised by Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
What is Pacific Lutheran University's official website?
You can find Pacific Lutheran University online at www.plu.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
These are the most highly ranked universities in the United States. Putting Pacific Lutheran University alongside them gives a clearer picture of where it sits in the national academic landscape, especially when reputation matters for credential portability.
Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
Pacific Lutheran University and the universities below are both members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
Other American Universities Affiliated with Christian-Lutheran
Below: other Christian-Lutheran-affiliated universities in the United States, alongside Pacific Lutheran University.
Faculties at nearby universities
Also in Tacoma: universities located close to Pacific Lutheran University.
Where Else to Study Social & Cultural Studies
Universities in the United States with Social & Cultural Studies programmes appear below, alongside Pacific Lutheran University.
Universities Compared with Pacific Lutheran University
Comparable universities to Pacific Lutheran University are listed below.
Studying in United States: guides and resources
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