Academic Comparison between PLU and Pierce College District

Pacific Lutheran University and Pierce College District are frequently compared when students or parents prepare college admissions. PLU is a four-year, private (not-for-profit) school located in Tacoma, WA and Pierce College District is a four-year, public school located in Lakewood, WA.

The following list compares two colleges briefly in important perspectives. You can compare them with comprehensive information on full comparison page.

Comparison Table with important Academic Factors

Pacific Lutheran Universityvs.Pierce College District
Tacoma, WashingtonLocationLakewood, Washington
Four-year, Private (not-for-profit)School Typefour-year, Public
Doctor's degreeHighest Degree OfferedBachelor's degree
Master's College and University (medium programs)Carnegie ClassificationAssociate's - Private For-profit 4-year Primarily Associate's
$50,9162025 Tuition & Fees
In-State$5,418
Out-Of-State$5,976
94%% Receiving Financial Aid32%
$38,262Average Amount of Financial Aid$6,851
78.02 %Acceptance Rates-
14.12 %Yield (Enrollment Rates)-
1,160SAT Score-
25ACT Score-
69 %Graduation Rate31 %
24 %Transfer-out Rate20 %
82 %Retention Rate-
2,797Student Population8,137
176Number of Faculties133
12 to 1Students to Faculty Ratio13 to 1
Distance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher CertificationSpecial Learning OpportunitiesDistance Learning (Online Classes), Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher Certification
Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement servicesOn Campus Student ServicesAcademic/career counseling service, Employment services, On-campus daycare