Point Loma Nazarene University
Acceptance rate
83.7%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$46,250
$59,900 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
3,246
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
69.0%
4-year; 6-year rate 75.9%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU) is a private Christian university located in San Diego, California. Nestled along the picturesque coastline of the Pacific Ocean, the university offers a unique blend of academic excellence and spiritual growth. Established in 1902, PLNU emphasizes a holistic approach to education, integrating faith and learning to prepare students for meaningful lives and careers. The campus is renowned for its stunning views, vibrant community, and commitment to sustainability, making it an attractive destination for students from diverse backgrounds.
PLNU is well-regarded for its strong academic programs, particularly in fields such as nursing, business, and education. The university boasts a dedicated faculty with a low student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship for each student. The school's mission emphasizes the development of the whole person, encouraging students to engage in various extracurricular activities that foster leadership, community service, and spiritual growth. PLNU also hosts a range of athletic programs and promotes an active student lifestyle, with opportunities for participation in sports, clubs, and events that enhance campus culture. Through its commitment to academic rigor, community engagement, and spiritual development, Point Loma Nazarene University prepares its graduates to make a positive impact in their professions and communities.
Tuition and Student Enrollment Trends at Point Loma Nazarene University
Point Loma Nazarene University has experienced a significant increase in tuition costs over the years. In 2014, the tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduates was approximately $30,356, which has escalated to around $43,550 by 2024, representing an increase of over 43%. This rise in tuition reflects a broader trend in higher education where institutions are facing increasing operational costs, leading to higher tuition fees for students.
Alongside the rising tuition, student enrollment has shown a fluctuating pattern. The undergraduate population grew from 2,415 in 2013 to a peak of 3,135 in 2019 before slightly declining to 3,154 in 2023. This fluctuation in enrollment might correlate with the increasing financial burden on students, as they weigh the costs against the benefits of attending private institutions.
Moreover, the university's graduation rates also provide insight into its academic performance. The on-time graduation rate stood at around 64% in 2023, down from a peak of approximately 70.5% in 2021. This decline could indicate a need for better support systems for students, as financial pressures and academic challenges can impact students' ability to graduate on time.
Lastly, the retention rate has remained relatively stable, hovering around 84-89% in recent years. This suggests that while students may struggle with financial pressures, many still choose to remain enrolled, indicating a degree of satisfaction with the university's offerings. However, the combination of rising tuition, shifting enrollment numbers, and graduation rates poses a significant challenge for the institution in maintaining its reputation and ensuring student success.
These trends underscore the complexities faced by students in the current educational landscape and highlight the necessity for institutions to adapt to changing economic conditions while supporting their student populations effectively.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- San Diego, about 9 mi
- Nearest international airport
- San Diego International Airport (SAN), about 4 mi
- Also known as
- PLNU
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Church of the Nazarene
- President
- Kerry Fulcher (President)
- Phone
- 6198492200
- City
- San Diego, California
- Address
- 3900 Lomaland Dr, San Diego, CA 92106-2899
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 85.5%, women 68.4%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Point Loma Nazarene University
The admission data for Point Loma Nazarene University over the years reveals significant trends in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Notably, the acceptance rate for male applicants has fluctuated considerably from 83.8% in 2009 to a remarkable 89.9% in 2023, while the female acceptance rate has also shown variability, starting at around 75.2% and dropping to 78.2% in the most recent year.
A striking observation is the significant increase in the number of applicants denied admission, which peaked in 2011 with 1,582 denials, suggesting heightened competition and possibly an increasing interest in the university. As enrollment numbers have generally increased, reaching a high of 690 in 2023, the university appears to be successfully attracting a larger pool of applicants, albeit with a more selective approach in recent years.
The data also indicates that the university has been deferring a notable number of applicants, particularly in 2010 and 2011, which could reflect strategic admissions practices aimed at managing class size and maintaining academic standards. This trend emphasizes the institution's efforts to balance quality and quantity in its admissions process.
Overall, the trends suggest that Point Loma Nazarene University has managed to maintain its appeal while navigating the challenges of increasing applicant numbers and the need for selective admissions. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the university adapts its strategies to sustain its growth and academic integrity.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 8% submitted SAT, 6% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at Point Loma Nazarene University
The admissions data for Point Loma Nazarene University reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in standardized test submissions and scores. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has shown a decreasing trend, dropping from a high of 91% in 2008 to just 15% in 2022 and 2023. This decline suggests a shift in admissions strategies and possibly reflects a broader trend in higher education where many institutions are moving towards test-optional policies.
The SAT reading and math scores have also fluctuated, with the range for the 25th to 75th percentile scores showing variability. For instance, in 2019, the SAT reading and math scores ranged from 580 to 650, indicating a competitive applicant pool. However, by 2022, the ranges increased to 600 to 680, reflecting a higher overall academic caliber among the admitted students.
Moreover, the decline in the number of applicants submitting scores correlates with the observed drop in admission rates, suggesting that the university may be becoming more selective. The decreasing number of applicants who provided scores, combined with the increase in score ranges, indicates that while fewer students are taking standardized tests, those who do are achieving higher scores, which may reflect changing educational priorities and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on college admissions processes.
Overall, this data points towards a transformation in the admissions landscape at Point Loma Nazarene University, emphasizing the importance of adapting to evolving educational trends and student preferences in a competitive academic environment.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
3,265 applicants in 2025, 83.7% admitted
2,732 admitted 533 not admitted Yield 21.4%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Education, General · Master's161 (0% international)
- Exercise Science and Kinesiology · Master's72 (0% international)
- Clinical Psychology · Master's54 (0% international)
- Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services · Master's45 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's31 (6% international)
- Physician Assistant · Master's30 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Point Loma Nazarene University
The graduation data from Point Loma Nazarene University for 2023 highlights some significant trends across various academic programs. Notably, the Master’s program in Education stands out with 138 graduates, indicating a strong interest in advanced studies within the education sector. This aligns with a broader national trend where education professionals are increasingly pursuing higher degrees, especially given the ongoing emphasis on educational reform and quality improvement.
In contrast, the Business Administration program had 70 graduates at the Master's level, with a small number of international students. This suggests a competitive yet stable interest in business studies, a reflection of the robust job market in various business sectors. However, the absence of bachelor and doctoral graduates in this field may indicate a saturation at the undergraduate level or a shift towards specialized master’s programs.
Psychology emerged as a notable area of undergraduate study, with 62 graduates. This reflects the growing recognition of mental health issues in society and the increasing demand for trained professionals in this field. The absence of international students in this category could point to potential barriers for non-resident students in pursuing psychology at the undergraduate level.
Furthermore, the lack of graduates in several programs, such as Public Administration and Worship Ministry, raises questions about student interest and market demand for these areas. This could also reflect broader societal shifts in career choices and the increasing focus on fields with high employment rates.
Overall, the data provides a snapshot of the academic landscape at Point Loma Nazarene University, revealing areas of strength in advanced education and psychology, while also highlighting potential areas for growth and reevaluation in other disciplines.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $53,063-$77,615 | |||
| Organizational Leadership. | $53,063-$77,615 | |||
| Accounting. | $81,589 | |||
| Finance, General. | $63,772 | |||
| Management Information Systems, General. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $47,209 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physician Assistant. | $33,152-$55,222 | |||
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | $33,152-$55,222 | |||
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions, Other. | $33,152-$55,222 | |||
| Dietetics/Dietitian. | - | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $104,802-$110,814 | |||
| Nursing Practice. | $104,802-$110,814 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $31,042 | |||
| Clinical Psychology. | $54,039 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $54,012 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General. | - | |||
| Child Development. | $35,515 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $45,440 | |||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | $36,377 | |||
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $36,377 | |||
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | $36,377 | |||
| Journalism, Other. | - | |||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - | |||
| Organizational Communication, General. | $48,757 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | - | |||
| Graphic Design. | - | |||
| Music, General. | - | |||
| Music Theory and Composition. | - | |||
| Music Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Development Economics and International Development. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | $66,457 | |||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $48,557 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | |||
| Writing, General. | - | |||
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | - | |||
| Computer Software Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - | |||
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - | |||
| Christian Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International/Globalization Studies. | - | |||
| Data Science, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | - | |||
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Worship Ministry. | - | |||
| Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other. | - |
Students
4,757 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 35:65 · Freshman retention 85.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,253
- First-year undergraduates 584
- Graduate students 1,511
- Transfers and others 409
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,246)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Point Loma Nazarene University in 2023
The enrollment data for 2023 at Point Loma Nazarene University reveals insightful trends in student demographics. Among undergraduate freshmen, the gender distribution shows a significant female majority, with 63.9% identifying as female and 36.1% as male. This trend is consistent across other categories, including undergraduate juniors and graduate students, where females represent 66.1% and 67.7%, respectively.
Interestingly, the proportion of male students is highest among undergraduate transfer students at 38%. This could suggest a growing interest among male students in transferring to complete their education. The overall student population also indicates a predominantly white demographic, although specific numbers for other racial categories are not fully disclosed, highlighting a need for further diversity initiatives.
The university's efforts in creating an inclusive environment are critical, especially in light of ongoing discussions around equity and representation in higher education. As institutions strive to attract a more diverse student body, the gender imbalance observed in this data may prompt targeted outreach to encourage male enrollment, particularly in programs where they are underrepresented.
Moreover, these statistics can serve as a benchmark for future comparisons, helping to track progress in diversifying the student population. With the increasing importance placed on diversity in academic settings, it is essential for Point Loma Nazarene University to not only maintain its current enrollment levels but also to enhance its appeal to a broader demographic spectrum.
Analysis of Age Distribution at Point Loma Nazarene University
The age distribution of students at Point Loma Nazarene University in 2023 reveals significant insights into the demographics of the student body. The majority of undergraduate students fall within the 18-21 age range, with 427 males and 791 females aged 18-19, and 358 males alongside 755 females in the 20-21 category. This concentration suggests that the university primarily attracts traditional college-age students, which is consistent with broader trends seen across many higher education institutions.
Interestingly, there is a noticeable decline in the number of students as the age increases. For instance, the 22-24 age group includes only 158 male undergraduates and 202 female undergraduates, indicating a potential drop-off in enrollment as students transition into graduate programs or the workforce. This pattern continues, with even fewer students in the older age brackets, particularly evident in the 50-64 and over 65 categories, which collectively represent a mere fraction of the student population.
Moreover, the data illustrates that while there is a significant number of female students across all age categories, particularly in the younger demographics, the male representation in graduate programs is relatively strong, especially in the 25-29 age range. This could reflect a growing trend where males are pursuing advanced degrees later in life, possibly after gaining some professional experience.
Overall, Point Loma Nazarene University appears to be catering predominantly to younger students while also accommodating a smaller, yet significant, population of older students pursuing advanced degrees. This demographic composition is essential for the university in planning academic programs and support services tailored to the needs of its diverse student body.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
37 in 2025 · 0.8% in 2016
14 in 2025 · 1.0% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Point Loma Nazarene University
The data on international student enrollment at Point Loma Nazarene University reveals significant fluctuations over the years. Particularly, the figures show a peak in undergraduate enrollment of international students in 2017, when 1.17% of the total undergraduate population were international students. This trend appears to have stabilized somewhat, with a slight decrease to 1.01% in 2023, indicating a potential plateau in international student interest or enrollment.
Graduate student enrollment trends exhibit a more positive trajectory, especially in 2019 and 2020, where the percentage of international students reached 2.06% and 2.13%, respectively. This suggests that the university may be increasingly appealing to graduate students from abroad, possibly due to specialized programs or support services tailored for this demographic.
However, the overall numbers for both undergraduate and graduate students show a declining trend in international representation after a peak in 2017 and 2020, respectively. This may reflect broader challenges in the global educational landscape, such as visa restrictions, economic fluctuations, or the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic that have affected international mobility and student preferences.
In summary, while international student enrollment at Point Loma Nazarene University has shown some promising numbers, particularly at the graduate level, a focus on enhancing support for international students and addressing barriers to entry may be necessary to sustain and grow this important segment of the student body. As universities globally are competing for international talent, it will be vital for Point Loma Nazarene University to adapt its strategies to attract and retain these students effectively.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$59,900
- Undergraduate tuition
- $46,250
- Room and board
- $13,650
- Graduate tuition
- $11,880
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 43% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 39%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$155M
Expenses$139M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Pacific West Conference
Pacific West Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 30 | 32 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | - | 57 |
| Basketball | 16 | 17 |
| Baseball | 32 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Tennis | 10 | 7 |
| Golf | - | 9 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | - | 80 |
| Soccer | 32 | 31 |
| Baseball | 33 | - |
| Basketball | 13 | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Tennis | 9 | 8 |
| Golf | - | 6 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | - | 70 |
| Soccer | 24 | 29 |
| Basketball | 14 | 21 |
| Baseball | 31 | - |
| Tennis | 11 | 7 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Golf | - | 8 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of San DiegoSan Diego · 5.0 mi
U.S. News #100
-
University of California-San DiegoLa Jolla · 11.0 mi
U.S. News #29
-
San Diego State UniversitySan Diego · 11.1 mi
U.S. News #137
-
Soka University of AmericaAliso Viejo · 64.2 mi
Liberal Arts #41
-
University of California-IrvineIrvine · 72.8 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Chapman UniversityOrange · 82.0 mi
U.S. News #100
-
University of California-RiversideRiverside · 86.8 mi
U.S. News #80
-
California State University-FullertonFullerton · 88.3 mi
U.S. News #156
-
California State University--Long BeachLong Beach · 88.8 mi
U.S. News #137
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Point Loma Nazarene University:
-
University of San Diego - Ranked 98 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
University of California-San Diego - With a rank of 28, UC San Diego is a leading research university known for its strong science and engineering programs.
-
San Diego State University - Ranked 105, SDSU is a comprehensive university that provides a diverse array of programs and is known for its vibrant campus life.
-
Pomona College - This liberal arts college is highly regarded, ranked 4th in the nation, and offers a unique educational experience focused on undergraduate studies.
-
Claremont McKenna College - Known for its strong emphasis on economics and government, this liberal arts college ranks 11th in the US News rankings.
-
Harvey Mudd College - With a rank of 16, Harvey Mudd is a prestigious liberal arts college that specializes in engineering, science, and mathematics.
These institutions represent a blend of comprehensive universities and liberal arts colleges, each offering unique programs and opportunities for students.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Data at Point Loma Nazarene University
The crime statistics at Point Loma Nazarene University over the years reveal some interesting trends. The data indicates a noticeable fluctuation in the average crime rates per 1000 students, with a peak in 2019 at 4.18 incidents and a significant drop to 1.36 in 2015. This variability could be attributed to several factors, including changes in campus security policies, community engagement, or even broader societal issues affecting crime rates.
In 2023, the average crime rate rose again to 4.40, which reflects an increasing concern regarding safety on campus. Notably, the data highlights the most reported offenses, such as gun-related arrests and drug-related incidents. While the university appears to have implemented measures to tackle these issues, the rise in crime rates suggests that there is still work to be done to ensure the safety of students.
It is essential for the university administration to continue monitoring these trends closely and to engage in proactive measures to mitigate crime. Regular safety workshops and community outreach programs could be beneficial. Furthermore, fostering a culture of reporting and support among students can empower them to take action against crime.
Overall, while the data presents a mixed picture, the commitment to improving campus safety remains crucial. For a comprehensive understanding of crime rates and their implications, one can refer to the methodology of calculating crime rates available at this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Point Loma Nazarene University include Destin Daniel Cretton (Director of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings), Natalie Harp (Political aide to Donald Trump) and Darlene Hooley (Former US representative from Oregon).
-
Destin Daniel Cretton 1978–
Director of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings
-
Natalie Harp 1991–
Political aide to Donald Trump
-
Darlene Hooley 1939–
Former US representative from Oregon
-
Steven Lenhart 1986–
Former MLS soccer player
-
Greg Laswell 1974–
Musician, singer-songwriter and record producer
-
Hoku 1981–
Singer and actress, known for Another Dumb Blonde
-
Doug TenNapel 1966–
Creator of the Earthworm Jim video game series
-
Daulton Hommes 1996–
Basketball player for Paris Basketball
-
Jordan Cunningham 1977–
California State Assembly member and attorney
More alumni (7, by field)
Politics and law
-
Larry Alan Burns 1954–
Retired US federal district judge
-
Lynne Pancrazi
Former Arizona state senator
Business
-
Abdelmonem Bin Eisa Alserkal
Emirati businessman, founder of Alserkal
Science and academia
-
Ed Blakely 1938–2025
Urban planning scholar and Berkeley professor
Arts and media
-
Susan Meissner 1961–
Author, novelist and columnist
Sports
-
Marek Klassen 1992–
Canadian professional basketball player
-
Marty Decker 1957–
Former MLB pitcher for the San Diego Padres
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.