Pacific Lutheran University and Western Washington University 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 Western Washington is a four-year, public school located in Bellingham, WA.
The following list compares two colleges briefly in important perspectives. You can compare them with comprehensive information on full comparison page.
| Pacific Lutheran University | vs. | Western Washington University |
|---|---|---|
| Tacoma, Washington | Location | Bellingham, Washington |
| Four-year, Private (not-for-profit) | School Type | four-year, Public |
| Doctor's degree | Highest Degree Offered | Doctor's degree |
| Master's College and University (medium programs) | Carnegie Classification | Master's College and University (larger programs) |
| $50,916 | 2025 Tuition & Fees | In-State$9,582
Out-Of-State$28,707 |
| 94% | % Receiving Financial Aid | 58% |
| $38,262 | Average Amount of Financial Aid | $9,066 |
| 78.02 % | Acceptance Rates | 93.25 % |
| 14.12 % | Yield (Enrollment Rates) | 22.94 % |
| 1,160 | SAT Score | 1,280 |
| 25 | ACT Score | 28 |
| 69 % | Graduation Rate | 65 % |
| 24 % | Transfer-out Rate | - |
| 82 % | Retention Rate | 79 % |
| 2,797 | Student Population | 14,710 |
| 176 | Number of Faculties | 686 |
| 12 to 1 | Students to Faculty Ratio | 18 to 1 |
| Distance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher Certification | Special Learning Opportunities | Distance Learning (Online Classes), Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher Certification |
| Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services | On Campus Student Services | Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services, On-campus daycare |