Pacific Lutheran University Overview

Pacific Lutheran University is a four-year, full-time, inclusive, lower transfer-in, higher education institution located in Tacoma, WA. It has an enrollment of 2,331 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 88.39%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $21,023. Tuition is $48,226.00 without financial aid.

Pacific Lutheran University is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At Pacific Lutheran University, 78.53% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Pacific Lutheran University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 11 to 1.

Pacific Lutheran University Website

Pacific Lutheran University Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 88.39%.

SAT or ACT scores are considered but not required.

• The average SAT score was 1247.0 for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was 25.0 for the incoming class to 2023.

Pacific Lutheran University Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $21,023.

The average tuition is:

• $15,308, when family income is less than $30,000

• $15,131, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $18,117, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $26,149, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $26,531, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 46.89% of students received a federal student loan and 32.43% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $48,226.00 without financial aid.

Pacific Lutheran University Net Price Calculator

Pacific Lutheran University Majors/Salaries

Pacific Lutheran University has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at Pacific Lutheran University here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Communication and Media Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $34,420
• Computer and Information Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $69,338
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $45,082
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Master’s Degree) – $54,053
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $44,551
• Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• English Language and Literature, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,459
• Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,685
• Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies. (Master’s Degree) – $43,426
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,598
• Mathematics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $43,426
• Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,476
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,996
• Chemistry. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $36,848
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $37,054
• Social Work. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,569
• Anthropology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $22,192
• Political Science and Government. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $36,674
• Sociology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,420
• Fine and Studio Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,194
• Music. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $24,035
• Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions. (Master’s Degree) – $46,087
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $68,875
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Master’s Degree) – $92,632
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $46,556
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Master’s Degree) – $61,064
• History. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,685

Pacific Lutheran University Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at Pacific Lutheran University

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.43%
• Asian: 11.07%
• Black: 3.39%
• Hispanic: 15.83%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 1.59%
• Non-resident alien: 1.07%
• Two or more races: 11.24%
• Unknown: 1.54%
• White: 53.84%

At Pacific Lutheran University, 7.33% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Pacific Lutheran University Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Pacific Lutheran University?

Pacific Lutheran University is known for its strong school spirit. The university boasts a tight-knit community where students are encouraged to participate in a wide variety of activities, organizations, and athletic events. PLU’s athletics programs are particularly popular, and games are well-attended by both students and community members. The university’s mascot, the Lute, is a beloved figure on campus, and students are encouraged to show their pride in PLU through wearing school colors, attending school events, and participating in university traditions. Overall, PLU has a strong sense of community and school spirit that is evident in many aspects of campus life.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Pacific Lutheran University?

There are various popular extracurricular activities at Pacific Lutheran University (PLU) that cater to different interests. Some of the most popular ones include: 1. Athletics – PLU has numerous sports teams that compete at different levels, including NCAA Division III. Sports enthusiasts can participate in or support various teams such as soccer, football, basketball, volleyball, baseball, and cross-country. 2. Music and Performing Arts – This is an area where PLU excels with offerings such as the choir, orchestra, and multiple theatre productions throughout the year. 3. Volunteer and Community Service – PLU encourages students to be involved in community service and volunteer work. Through its community service center, students can participate in various projects and initiatives within and outside the university. 4. Greek Life – Fraternities and sororities also hold a strong presence on campus, with several organizations to choose from. 5. Student Clubs and Organizations – From academic clubs and political organizations to special interest groups, there is a wide range of student clubs and organizations at PLU. Students can also start new clubs if they don’t find anything that matches their interests.

How are the food choices at Pacific Lutheran University?

Pacific Lutheran University offers a wide range of food choices for the students. The campus has three main dining facilities: The Commons, Old Main Market, and The Cave. The Commons is the main dining hall on campus, and it serves an all-you-can-eat buffet with a rotating menu of various cuisines and dietary options, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Old Main Market offers a selection of to-go food items, snacks, beverages, coffee, and pastries. The Cave is a campus pub that serves burgers, fries, salads, sandwiches, and other pub-style food. Additionally, the campus has a Starbucks and a Subway. Overall, students at Pacific Lutheran University have access to a variety of food choices on campus.

Is there Greek life at Pacific Lutheran University?

Yes, Pacific Lutheran University (PLU) has a vibrant Greek life on campus. There are seven national social Greek organizations on campus, including four fraternities and three sororities. The sororities are Alpha Chi Omega, Alpha Kappa Delta Phi, and Delta Gamma, and the fraternities are Alpha Phi Alpha, Delta Chi, Kappa Sigma, and Phi Delta Theta. Greek life is an important part of the campus’s social scene, and many students choose to join a fraternity or sorority while at PLU.

What is Pacific Lutheran University known for?

Pacific Lutheran University is a private university located in Tacoma, Washington. It is known for its strong programs in the fields of business, nursing, and education. Additionally, it has a reputation for its commitment to community engagement and service learning, as well as its dedication to sustainability. PLU has also been recognized for its study abroad programs, which offer opportunities for students to gain a global perspective and cross-cultural understanding.

What are the most popular school clubs at Pacific Lutheran University?

Pacific Lutheran University has many student-led clubs and organizations. Some of the most popular clubs at PLU are the Black Student Union, Queer Student Alliance, Students for Feminism, Latinos Unidos, Hillel, and Asian and Pacific Islander Student Association. Additionally, there are clubs focused on music, sports, community service, and various other interests. Students are also welcome to start their own clubs, so the list is always changing and growing.

Is the campus at Pacific Lutheran University safe?

According to the 2020 Campus Safety and Security Survey by the Pacific Lutheran University, the overall crime rate decreased by 51% from 2019, indicating that the campus is generally safe. Additionally, the university takes numerous safety measures including a Campus Safety department, emergency phones, shuttle services, and safety escorts to ensure the safety of its community members. However, it is still essential to take necessary precautions and remain vigilant, particularly when staying on campus late at night or off-campus areas.