Overview of Pacific University Oregon
Pacific University Oregon, officially founded in 1849, is a distinguished private university located in Forest Grove, Oregon, United States. With over 175 years of rich educational heritage, Pacific has evolved from its Congregationalist origins into a comprehensive institution with additional campuses in Hillsboro, Eugene, and Woodburn. The university serves a close-knit student body of approximately 3,700 undergraduate and graduate students and features five distinct colleges: Arts & Sciences, Business, Education, Health Professions, and Optometry. Its focus is on innovative teaching and community engagement, placing it at the heart of the Pacific Northwest’s academic community.
Pacific University is particularly recognized for its nationally acclaimed programs in health sciences—such as optometry, occupational therapy, physical therapy, audiology, and physician assistant studies—as well as strong offerings in education, business, and the liberal arts. The university’s interdisciplinary approach integrates experiential, student-centered learning with robust clinical and service opportunities. Research is fostered through faculty-mentored projects and active collaborations, exemplified by partnerships with regional healthcare providers, school districts, and global exchange initiatives. Pacific consistently ranks among the top Western Regional Universities by U.S. News & World Report. Its unique Pacific Promise guarantees graduation in four years for qualified students, further underscoring the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and student outcomes.
Campus life at Pacific University is vibrant, inclusive, and student-focused. With over 60 student clubs and organizations, a dynamic performing and visual arts scene, and a spectrum of NCAA Division III athletics, students enjoy ample opportunities for engagement and personal development. The university fosters a welcoming environment, supporting students of diverse backgrounds through dedicated cultural centers, international programs, and comprehensive student support services. Modern on-campus housing, frequent community events, and volunteer initiatives promote both social connection and civic responsibility, enriching the Pacific experience outside the classroom.
Guided by its motto, “Pro Bono Ecclesiae et Humanitate”—for church and humanity—Pacific University is dedicated to fostering ethical leadership, global citizenship, and a lifelong commitment to service. The institution embraces innovation, diversity, and sustainability as central pillars in preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to their professions and communities worldwide.