Pacific Lutheran University

Pacific Lutheran University (PLU), nestled in Parkland, Washington, offers a vibrant and enriching educational journey rooted in a distinguished history. Founded in 1890 by Norwegian Lutheran immigrants, PLU stands as a private university dedicated to its motto: "Educating for Lives of Thoughtful Inquiry, Service, Leadership, and Care." With approximately 2,754 students, PLU fosters a close-knit community focused on holistic development, preparing graduates to make meaningful contributions.

PLU's academic landscape is structured across four dynamic 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. This structure ensures a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to learning, preparing students not just for careers, but for impactful engagement in society. With a commitment to academic excellence, PLU's approximately 238 full-time professors guide students through rigorous programs designed to cultivate critical thinking and a service-oriented mindset.

From its humble beginnings as the Pacific Lutheran Academy, PLU's journey reflects a steadfast dedication to its founding principles. The university evolved through various stages, including mergers with other institutions, to become the comprehensive university it is today. Its original vision of helping immigrants adjust and producing graduates who would serve church and community remains central, echoing the venerated Scandinavian traditions of its founders. The picturesque 156-acre woodland campus provides an inspiring backdrop for this enduring mission, inviting students to engage deeply with their studies and their world.