Into the Grove
Three PLU researchers are finding something extraordinary hidden in the small stands of aspen trees scattered across Tacoma’s parks and college campuses. While most people ignore these quiet groves, the research team sees them as vital hosts to a complex, diverse ecosystem that scientists still…
PLU launches accelerated 3+3 law school pathway partnership with Gonzaga
Starting in fall 2026, PLU is launching a new accelerated pathway for students interested in law school through the 3+3 Law School Partnership Program with Gonzaga University . Stephanie Johnson, PLU’s Dean of the College of Liberal Studies, shares, “ I’m excited about these partnerships…
PLU introduces new Master of Education program with first cohort beginning Summer 2026
Pacific Lutheran University will welcome the first cohort of students into its new Master of Education (M.Ed.) program in Summer 2026, offering a flexible pathway for educators and community professionals looking to grow their expertise and expand their impact. Designed with working professionals in mind,…
PLU named a Top Producing Institution for Fulbright U.S. Scholars
Pacific Lutheran University has been named a Top Producing Institution of Fulbright U.S. Scholars for the 2025–2026 academic year — an honor recognizing colleges and universities that consistently cultivate outstanding applicants for the Fulbright Program, the U.S. government’s flagship international academic exchange initiative. “This is…
PLU student research recognized with multiple awards at 2025 Murdock Conference
PLU students earned awards for their undergraduate research at the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust Conference on Science and Engineering , an annual regional conference that brings together student researchers and faculty mentors from across the Pacific Northwest. Several of the projects were supported through PLU’s…
Laser Robots at PLU!
Robots with lasers? This is exactly what students in Professor Bacula’s “Programming for Robots” lab used to create maps of the classroom using LiDAR technology.
Reconstructing a Gray Whale Skeleton
Biology students at PLU recently undertook a literal “whale” of a project! As part of Professor Egge’s “Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy” class, students reconstructed the skeleton of a gray whale recovered from the Puget Sound.
What is an MSW (in one minute)?
We challenged Master of Social Work professor Dr. Anissa Rogers to tell us all about PLU’s MSW program in one minute or less. Can she beat the clock?
The Kon-Tiki Museum at 75: Curator Reidar Solsvik to present lecture at PLU
Set your coordinates for a journey through history and across the Pacific this October. Pacific Lutheran University’s Scandinavian Cultural Center (SCC) is hosting the annual Thor Heyerdahl Lecture on October 8, 2025, from 7 to 9 p.m. , featuring Norwegian archaeologist and Kon-Tiki Museum curator,…
PLU launches Music Therapy program as field gains tempo in Washington
Pacific Lutheran University is launching a new bachelor’s degree in music therapy, which will make PLU the only university in the state to offer an accredited academic pathway to licensure. As of January 2025, music therapists in Washington are required to obtain a professional license…
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…
Rainier Adaptive Sports advocates for access and equity, finding partnership with PLU
One of professor Charlie Katica ’s favorite memories is walking into a gym buzzing with energy — 20 kids in sport chairs practicing basketball, surrounded by more than 100 parents, coaches, and volunteers. “These athletes are a part of my family, and I am part…