Pacific Lutheran University

What are the graduation rates for students at Pacific Lutheran University?

Pacific Lutheran University demonstrates solid performance in student graduation outcomes, with an overall graduation rate of 71%, placing it in the top 25% nationally. Male students graduate at a rate of 69%, similarly ranking in the top 25%, while female students achieve a slightly higher rate of 72%, which falls within the top 30% nationally. These figures reflect a consistent ability to support students through to degree completion.

The university's six-year graduation rate is also notable, standing at 71%, which reinforces its strength in retaining and graduating students within six years and situates it again in the top 25% compared to peer institutions. However, the four-year graduation rate is somewhat lower at 51%, considered average but still ranking in the top 40%, indicating that while many students take longer than four years to graduate, a majority complete their studies within a reasonable timeframe.

Retention rates further illuminate student persistence, with 79% of first-year students continuing into their second year. This average retention rate places the university in the top 40%, suggesting effective student engagement and academic support during the critical early college years.

What is the earning potential for graduates at Pacific Lutheran University?

Graduates of Pacific Lutheran University experience varied earning potentials depending on their chosen field of study. Those who pursue degrees in technology and health-related fields tend to report the highest median earnings. For instance, graduates with a degree in Computer and Information Sciences, General, have median earnings of $67,051, while those in Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing earn about $69,659 on average.

Education-related degrees also offer moderate earning opportunities, with median incomes for Teacher Education and Professional Development ranging between approximately $50,648 and $51,494. Business Administration, Management and Operations graduates earn an average of $41,050, indicating solid returns in business disciplines.

Science and mathematics fields provide varied but respectable median salaries. Mathematics graduates earn around $41,580, and Chemistry majors report earnings near $39,943. Biology and Psychology degree holders have median earnings closer to $27,895 and $28,221, respectively, illustrating steady but more modest income prospects.

Fields in the humanities and social sciences generally show lower median salaries. Communication and Media Studies graduates earn approximately $33,589, whereas Sociology majors earn around $31,575. Degrees in Fine and Studio Arts and Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies report median incomes in the low to mid $20,000 range, with Fine and Studio Arts at about $24,155 and Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies at $24,725.

Other disciplines such as Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics show median earnings near $20,987, while multi/interdisciplinary studies rank slightly above at approximately $21,237. These figures suggest more modest financial outcomes in comparison to STEM and health fields.