Pacific University
Forest Grove, United States • Founded 1849
Updated Jun 2026
Overview
Established in 1849, the Pacific University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the large town of Forest Grove (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants), Oregon.
Officially accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, Pacific University (PU) is a small-sized coeducational US higher education institution formally affiliated with the Christian-Protestant religion. Pacific University (PU) 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 175-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 90-99% making this US higher education organization a least selective institution.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.
PU 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
Mailing address, phone, email, and social channels for Pacific University are gathered below for quick reference. Most enquiries route through the admissions team unless noted otherwise.
Academic Details
The basic academic profile of Pacific University, including enrolment and faculty composition. Total student count fluctuates intake-to-intake; treat the figure as approximate rather than precise.
Academic Structures
Pacific University's internal academic units — faculties, schools, and institutes — are grouped below. The breakdown helps when navigating departmental websites and specific contact points.
Unit 5 items
- College of Arts and Science
- College of Business
- College of Education
- College of Health Professions
- College of Optometry
Programs Offered
Every programme Pacific University offers, searchable by name and grouped by level. Pathway programmes leading from foundation to bachelor entry are sometimes listed separately from full degree programmes.
88 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 56 programmes
Showing 10 of 56.
Master's Degree 17 programmes
Showing 10 of 17.
Doctorate 7 programmes
Professional Doctorate 6 programmes
Postgraduate Certificate 2 programmes
How to apply to Pacific University
The standard application path for Pacific University, broken into five practical steps with the documents and channels you will need at each stage.
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1
Identify the right programme
Use the programme finder to browse Pacific University's 88 active programmes. Filter by keyword or scan by degree level. Read curriculum details on each programme's dedicated page if available.
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2
Check entry requirements
Programme-level requirements at Pacific University typically include academic transcripts, language proficiency proof, identity documents, and a personal statement or interview. Confirm specific requirements with the admissions office.
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3
Prepare your application documents
Prepare academic transcripts, ID/passport copies, language proficiency proof, a personal statement, and reference letters. International candidates may need apostilled or notarised translations — start early to avoid deadline pressure.
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4
Submit via the institution
Pacific University processes applications through www.pacificu.edu. Create an account, fill out the application form, and submit your documents. Note application deadlines, which vary by intake and programme.
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5
Get in touch with admissions
Confirm receipt of your application with the admissions office and keep an eye on your portal for status changes. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (877) 722 8648. Quick responses to any follow-up requests keep your application moving smoothly through the review process.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pacific University
Common questions students ask about Pacific University — answers pulled straight from the institution's published profile.
How old is Pacific University?
The institution opened in 1849 (approximately 177 years ago).
Where is Pacific University located?
Pacific University is located in Forest Grove, United States.
Is Pacific University a public or private institution?
Pacific University operates as a private institution.
What is the student enrolment at Pacific University?
Student enrolment at Pacific University is around 3,000-3,999.
Does Pacific University have a religious affiliation?
Yes, Pacific University is affiliated with Christian-Protestant.
How is Pacific University organised academically?
Pacific University is organised into 5 academic units across its disciplines.
Is Pacific University accredited?
Pacific University is accredited by Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Where can I learn more about Pacific University?
The institution's website is www.pacificu.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
Graduate-school placement rates among the United States's top universities set the upper bound for that signal. Pacific University's placement rate relative to leaders is one signal of academic preparation depth.
Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
Below: National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) member institutions alongside Pacific University, useful for shortlists weighted toward partnerships. Partnership-driven shortlisting works well when post-graduate mobility is part of your plan.
Other American Universities Affiliated with Christian-Protestant
If Pacific University's affiliation with Christian-Protestant is part of what drew you, these other institutions affiliated with Christian-Protestant offer comparable spiritual and academic environments. Affiliation often shapes daily campus rhythms in subtle but persistent ways.
Faculties at nearby universities
Healthcare and student insurance rules often apply at the regional level around Pacific University. Nearby universities typically follow the same health-coverage requirements for enrolled students.
Where Else to Study Education & Teaching
Beyond Pacific University, several other universities in the United States deliver focused Education & Teaching programmes worth exploring before you commit to a single application. Programme depth and elective range vary significantly between institutions.
Universities Compared with Pacific University
Comparable peer metrics — selectivity, yield, faculty awards — give a fuller picture than headline rankings alone. The universities below cluster around Pacific University on most of these signals.
Studying in United States: guides and resources
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