1890
Tacoma, WA

About Pacific Lutheran University

Established in 1890, Pacific Lutheran University is a small, private university in Tacoma, Washington. Rooted in a Lutheran heritage, PLU is committed to expanding well-being, opportunity, and justice. It is dedicated to embracing the future while remaining grounded in the University’s history and values. PLU’s mission is to “educate students for lives of thoughtful inquiry, service, leadership, and care — for other people, for their communities and for the Earth.”  

Today, Pacific Lutheran University offers more than 40 undergraduate majors and graduate programs. As an example of embracing the future, PLU offers many courses and a couple of degrees 100% online. PLU online degrees provide high-quality options that meet students’ needs while fostering strong student-faculty relationships and learning communities. Online learning offers schedule flexibility and “independent, individualized, technology-rich learning experiences.”

Accreditation & Licensing

Pacific Lutheran University is accredited by:

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

Type:

4-year, Private not-for-profit

Highest Level Offered:

Doctor's degree

Religious Affiliation:

Evangelical Lutheran Church

Enrollment:

Undergraduate: 2,473 ; Graduate: 548

Percent of Fully Online Students:

Undergraduate: 1% ; Graduate: 3%

Graduation Rate:

71%

Transfer Rate:

12%

Median Earnings, 10-Years After Degree Completion:

$66,990

Median Debt After Graduation (4-Year Degree):

$22,578

Average Undergraduates Receiving Aid:

96%

Per Undergraduate Average Aid Award:

$36,072

Yellow Ribbon Program:

Yes

Credit for Military Training:

Yes

Geographic and Educational Overview

Google Map

Pacific Lutheran University is located in Washington

Washington at a Glance:

State flag of WA
Olympia
7,738,692
71,362 sq mi
6
21
34
$12,500.00

Top Incentives in Washington:

Top Career Pathways in Washington:

Software Development
  • Entry Level: Software Engineer ($95,000)
  • Mid Level: Senior Developer ($145,000)
  • Senior Level: Technical Director ($195,000+)
  • Required Education: BS Computer Science
  • Certifications: AWS, Azure
* Data is approximate and may be AI-enhanced

Online Programs offered by Pacific Lutheran University

Check Program Availability

All Programs

Art & Liberal Arts

Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing

Business

Master of Science in Marketing Analytics