About Point Loma Nazarene University
Point Loma Nazarene University is a faith-based, liberal arts institution located in San Diego, CA. Whole-person development is a key factor at PLNU, where students are not only prepared for their future careers, but are encouraged to fulfill their calling.
Point Loma Nazarene University online offers master’s and doctorate degrees, as well as certificate to the degree-seeking student. There are also multiple opportunities to earn credentials and added authorization in education, or enhance a career in healthcare via online learning. Master’s in wellness, business, ministry and education are available through hybrid courses or 100% online.
Online advantages:
- Accessibility and format needed by working professionals
- Same quality instruction and class model as on-campus classes
Accreditation & Licensing
Point Loma Nazarene University is accredited by:
WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Type:
4-year, Private not-for-profitHighest Level Offered:
Doctor's degreeReligious Affiliation:
Church of the NazareneEnrollment:
Undergraduate: 3,521 ; Graduate: 1,810Percent of Fully Online Students:
Undergraduate: 15% ; Graduate: 49%Graduation Rate:
77%Transfer Rate:
18%Median Earnings, 10-Years After Degree Completion:
$63,998Median Debt After Graduation (4-Year Degree):
$22,990Average Undergraduates Receiving Aid:
85%Per Undergraduate Average Aid Award:
$19,348Yellow Ribbon Program:
YesCredit for Military Training:
YesOnline Programs offered by Point Loma Nazarene University
At PLNU, the path to finish is clear when your program has a set course order. In nursing, direct freshman admission can remove a later re-application step. Clinical training also starts early, often by sophomore year. That early start helps students stay on track in a clear plan.
The pace is strong, and classes are challenging. Graduate students often move through a fast schedule with steady weekly work. For working adults, some master’s programs use an asynchronous format with no set class meeting times. That gives more control over when to study while keeping progress steady.
Overall, PLNU is a good fit for students who want structure and can keep up with consistent demands.
At PLNU, students often get strong support from faculty. Professors are kind, helpful, and easy to reach. Grading is often returned quickly, which helps students stay on track. Advisors are also approachable, including for working adults and other nontraditional students.
The school’s support feels personal and caring. Some offices can be less consistent at times, and response quality may vary by department. Even so, many students find real help from instructors and advisors as they balance school, work, and family.
PLNU includes online classes with flexible scheduling in some graduate paths. One format is asynchronous, with no scheduled class times. That helps adults keep school in their weekly routine.
PLNU also offers a hybrid option in some paths. One learner loved the hybrid setup and still met in person. Pace can feel intense in parts of the experience. Some instructors are very supportive, though consistency can vary by class.
At PLNU, classes are usually small, often around 20 to 30 students. This gives students more direct teaching and more time with professors. Learning is personal, and help is part of regular class time, not just office hours.
The pace is serious, and students are expected to stay engaged. Courses are challenging, and some graduate programs include clinical rotations. Teaching blends strong academics with practical training, including early hands-on work in key health programs.
Overall, PLNU offers a clear, structured learning path. It works best for students who put in steady effort and take an active role in class.
PLNU is a solid school with a mixed edge. Small classes are a real strength. Many classes run about 20 to 30 students. Professors are engaged and know students well.
Coursework is rigorous and paced with intent. Support is often personal and helpful. Advisors and professors are approachable. But consistency can vary by department.
Some reports describe weak staff communication and turnover. One graduate account also noted an overwhelmed instructor. Online fit is practical in select paths. Some graduate classes are asynchronous with no set meeting times.
That helps working adults manage schedule pressure. Overall, PLNU fits learners who want rigor, structure, and close faculty contact.
PLNU is a solid school with a mixed edge. Small classes are a real strength. Many classes run about 20 to 30 students. Professors are engaged and know students well.
Coursework is rigorous and paced with intent. Support is often personal and helpful. Advisors and professors are approachable. But consistency can vary by department.
Some reports describe weak staff communication and turnover. One graduate account also noted an overwhelmed instructor. Online fit is practical in select paths. Some graduate classes are asynchronous with no set meeting times.
That helps working adults manage schedule pressure. Overall, PLNU fits learners who want rigor, structure, and close faculty contact.
Frequently Asked Questions About Point Loma Nazarene University
Is Point Loma Nazarene University accredited?
Yes. Point Loma Nazarene University is institutionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission.
How many online programs does Point Loma Nazarene University offer?
Point Loma Nazarene University offers 4 online programs currently listed on GetEducated.
What degree levels does Point Loma Nazarene University offer?
Point Loma Nazarene University offers both bachelor's and master's level programs.
How should students contact admissions at Point Loma Nazarene University?
Ready to connect? Check Admission Details to get admissions, tuition, and timeline details directly from the school.
Is Point Loma Nazarene University expensive, and what are the tuition costs?
Roughly speaking, Point Loma Nazarene University falls into GetEducated’s $$$ tuition tier, which points to a higher tuition range.
How quickly can I enroll at Point Loma Nazarene University?
Enrollment at any school can be a quick process; if all required admission requirements are met. This is where students can get hung up and slow down the process by taking too long to gather required documentation.
What should transfer students ask Point Loma Nazarene University first?
The first thing you must do is order your transcripts from any previous school you attended and have them provided to the new school immediately with the hopes of receiving an unofficial transfer credit evaluation quickly. In an ideal world, students would have an official transfer credit evaluation done prior to committing to enrollment at any school; however with the vast majority of schools, official transfer credit evaluations happen after you are already enrolled, typically in the first semester.
What GPA do most Point Loma Nazarene University programs require?
Most listed programs require at least a 2.2 GPA, with requirements generally ranging from 2.2 to 3.0.
Is Point Loma Nazarene University military friendly?
Point Loma Nazarene University shows Yellow Ribbon support. Check Yellow Ribbon eligibility before you apply, since program-level benefits can vary.
How can students request information from Point Loma Nazarene University through GetEducated?
Comparing schools right now? Request Information to get admissions, tuition, and start-date details sent directly to you.
What documents are most commonly required for Point Loma Nazarene University applications?
Most listed programs ask for Official College Transcript(s), Essay/Writing Sample, Recommendation/Reference Letter(s), and Resume/CV. Getting these ready early can keep the application process moving.
Does Point Loma Nazarene University accept life experience credit?
Point Loma Nazarene University does not show a school-wide life experience credit policy. Check Transfer Options to confirm transfer-credit options for your specific program.
Are Point Loma Nazarene University programs fully online or mixed?
Point Loma Nazarene University programs are primarily listed as 100% Online, which can help students screen for schedule fit before applying.
What kinds of online programs does Point Loma Nazarene University offer?
Point Loma Nazarene University has online program options in areas such as Business and Healthcare; start with the field that best matches your career goal, then compare cost, format, and admissions requirements. Compare Programs to get program, admissions, and cost details before applying.
Do in-state and out-of-state tuition totals differ at Point Loma Nazarene University?
For programs with both totals published, in-state and out-of-state tuition totals are typically the same.
Do any Point Loma Nazarene University programs have state authorization limitations?
State authorization restrictions are not prominent across available programs, but students should still confirm eligibility for their state. Check State Eligibility before applying to confirm whether your program is available where you live.
How often can students start at Point Loma Nazarene University?
Start times per year typically range from 3-6 for most schools. For Point Loma Nazarene University, students should confirm the next available start date for their specific program before applying.
How should working adults compare Point Loma Nazarene University programs?
Working adults should confirm program format, total cost, timeline, and application requirements before choosing a path.
What should students compare before choosing a Point Loma Nazarene University program?
Students should compare accreditation fit, program format, application requirements, total cost, and whether the timeline works with their schedule.
Featured Ranking Reports
Point Loma Nazarene University is featured in 2 of our ranking reports!
GetEducated continually compiles custom ranking reports to give you a complete snapshot of schools, degrees, tuition, and a detailed report on thousands of job categories throughout the entire education industry.
We provide these comprehensive ranking reports to you, for free. Click on any report below to learn more about how we ranked this school.
Geographic and Educational Overview
Point Loma Nazarene University is located in California
California at a Glance:

Top Majors in California:
Top Incentives in California:
- Cal Grant Program: Up to $12,570 annually
- Middle Class Scholarship: Up to 40% of tuition and fees
- Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan: Full tuition coverage
Top Career Pathways in California:
- Entry Level: Software Engineer ($95,000)
- Mid Level: Senior Engineer ($150,000)
- Senior Level: Technical Director ($200,000+)
- Required Education: BS Computer Science
- Certifications: AWS, Security+, CISSP
- Entry Level: Clinical Manager ($75,000)
- Mid Level: Hospital Administrator ($120,000)
- Senior Level: Healthcare Executive ($180,000+)
- Required Education: BS Healthcare Administration
- Certifications: ACHE, CPHQ
- Entry Level: Environmental Specialist ($65,000)
- Mid Level: Environmental Manager ($110,000)
- Senior Level: Sustainability Director ($160,000+)
- Required Education: BS Environmental Science
- Certifications: CHMM, PE



