PLU Receives Full Reaffirmation of Accreditation from NWCCU

The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) has officially reaffirmed Pacific Lutheran University’s accreditation, recognizing PLU’s strength in mission, innovation, and student support. The reaffirmation marks the culmination of a seven-year review cycle, which included four annual reports, two campus visits, and a commission hearing.

“This outcome reflects the dedication, expertise, and care that staff and faculty bring to our students and to this institution every day,” says PLU President Allan Belton. “It’s not only an affirmation of the quality of our academic and co-curricular programs, but also of the strength of our community.”

The comprehensive process highlighted PLU’s strengths, with five commendations for areas of excellence:

• Successfully instilling the ideals and values of Lutheran higher education across the campus and community.
• Expanding access to college through Automatic Admission Partnerships with local school districts and the 253 PLU Bound Scholarship, increasing enrollment of first-generation, Pell-eligible, and students of color.
• Implementing a comprehensive strategic planning process that fosters innovation and transformation.
• Strengthening student success by improving retention rates through institution-wide efforts, including robust orientation and first-year experience programs for undergraduate students.
• Creating robust data dashboards that inform decision-making and strategic planning.

Accreditation by NWCCU is a mark of institutional quality and integrity, ensuring that PLU meets high standards in areas ranging from academic programs to student services. The decision affirms PLU’s foundation of excellence, positioning the university for future growth and impact.

View the full commission letter on PLU’s accreditation webpage.