Pacific Lutheran University

Nestled in the picturesque woodland setting of Parkland, Washington, Pacific Lutheran University (PLU) stands as a beacon of education with a rich heritage. Founded in 1890 by visionary Norwegian Lutheran immigrants, PLU’s enduring mission is captured in its inspiring motto: "Educating for Lives of Thoughtful Inquiry, Service, Leadership, and Care." This private university is not just an institution; it's a community dedicated to fostering intellectual curiosity and a deep commitment to making a difference in the world.

From its humble beginnings as the Pacific Lutheran Academy, PLU quickly became a vital center for education, helping new immigrants adapt and preparing graduates for service to both church and community—a tradition rooted in its Scandinavian pioneering spirit. Through strategic mergers with institutions like Columbia Lutheran College and Spokane College, and a commitment to academic expansion, PLU evolved. Initially offering baccalaureate degrees in education in 1939 and the liberal arts in 1942, the institution proudly reclaimed its original university status in 1960, cementing its role as a comprehensive educational powerhouse.

Today, PLU empowers its approximately 2,754 students through a robust academic structure, featuring four distinct colleges: the College of Health Professions; the College of Humanities, Interdisciplinary Studies, and Social Sciences; the College of Natural Sciences; and the College of Professional Studies. With a dedicated faculty of 340 academic staff, students engage in rigorous inquiry across a diverse range of fields. Beyond academics, the vibrant 156-acre suburban campus offers a dynamic student experience, fostering personal growth, athletic achievement as the 'Lutes' in NCAA Division III, and a strong sense of community, all guided by its profound legacy of service.