Academic Comparison between Washington State and PLU

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

Washington State Universityvs.Pacific Lutheran University
Pullman, WashingtonLocationTacoma, Washington
Four-year, PublicSchool Typefour-year, Private (not-for-profit)
Doctor's degreeHighest Degree OfferedDoctor's degree
Research University (very high research activity)Carnegie ClassificationMaster's College and University (medium programs)
In-State$13,391
Out-Of-State$29,950
2025 Tuition & Fees$50,916
68%% Receiving Financial Aid94%
$12,107Average Amount of Financial Aid$38,262
86.64 %Acceptance Rates78.02 %
19.72 %Yield (Enrollment Rates)14.12 %
-SAT Score1,160
-ACT Score25
60 %Graduation Rate69 %
-Transfer-out Rate24 %
78 %Retention Rate82 %
25,685Student Population2,797
1,410Number of Faculties176
15 to 1Students to Faculty Ratio12 to 1
Distance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Teacher CertificationSpecial Learning OpportunitiesDistance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher Certification
Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services, On-campus daycareOn Campus Student ServicesAcademic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services