
San Diego, CAprivate nonprofitwww.pointloma.edu/
Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU) is a private Christian liberal arts university perched on the ocean bluffs of San Diego, offering a tight-knit community where spirituality meets rigorous academics. With an 84% acceptance rate and strong programs in nursing, business, and biology, PLNU attracts students who want a faith-integrated education with Pacific views. Its 74% graduation rate and median alumni salary of $49,409 reflect a campus culture that balances beachside ministry trips with career-ready outcomes.
PLNU's admissions process is moderately selective, with an 84% acceptance rate (3,264 applicants, 2,731 accepted in recent data). Admitted students typically have an average SAT score of 1240 (1180–1365 range) or ACT score of 26 (25–32 range), and a weighted GPA above 3.8. The university emphasizes Holistic admissionsA review that weighs the whole applicant — grades, essays, activities, and context — rather than relying on test scores and GPA alone., considering both academic metrics and alignment with its Nazarene Christian mission. Regular applications are due by April 15, though early admission is available for high-achieving students who haven’t yet completed high school.
PLNU blends liberal arts with professional programs, offering 50+ majors across disciplines like nursing, business, and biology. Popular programs include:
The university emphasizes faith integration, with programs like ministry-focused service learning and interdisciplinary honors tracks. Intelligent.com recently ranked several PLNU programs among the best in the U.S., notably in education and health sciences. Small class sizes and a 12:1 student-faculty ratio foster close mentorship.
Life at PLNU revolves around its oceanfront campus and tight-knit community. Key features:
YouTube tours showcase the campus’s panoramic Pacific views, weekly chapel services, and events like sunset worships on the bluff.
PLNU graduates outperform national averages:
The strongest outcomes are in nursing and business, with many graduates entering healthcare, education, or nonprofit sectors. The university’s career services emphasize faith-aligned vocation, offering networking with Nazarene Church affiliates.
PLNU’s sticker price is high, but financial aid softens the blow:
Notably, 21% of aid recipients are Pell Grant-eligible, reflecting some socioeconomic diversity despite the Christian focus.
PLNU’s unmatched location—perched above the Pacific with sunset views from dorm windows—combines with a rigorous, faith-integrated curriculum to create a unique niche. It’s for students who want:
Its 77% retention rate suggests students find the blend of spiritual growth and academic challenge compelling.