Pacific Lutheran University vs California State University-Fresno

Tacoma, WA — Fresno, CA

Metric
Pacific Lutheran University
Tacoma, WA
California State University-Fresno
Fresno, CA
Location Tacoma, WA Fresno, CA
Type Private Nonprofit Public
Total Enrollment 2,401 21,605
Acceptance Rate 78.0% 95.3%
SAT Average 1,168
In-State Tuition $52,254 $7,350
Out-of-State Tuition $52,254 $19,950
Avg Net Price $19,589 $7,000
Median Debt at Graduation $22,578 $14,505
4-Year Graduation Rate 69.8% 55.9%
Retention Rate 81.9% 81.6%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $52,212 $44,012
Median Earnings (10 yr) $66,990 $61,244
Loan Repayment Rate 143100.0% 587900.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Pacific Lutheran University
Tacoma, WA
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California State University-Fresno
Fresno, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Pacific Lutheran University and California State University-Fresno compare?
Pacific Lutheran University (Tacoma, WA) has an acceptance rate of 78.0%, in-state tuition of $52,254, and median 10-year earnings of $66,990. California State University-Fresno (Fresno, CA) has an acceptance rate of 95.3%, in-state tuition of $7,350, and median 10-year earnings of $61,244.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Pacific Lutheran University or California State University-Fresno?
Pacific Lutheran University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $66,990 vs $61,244. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Pacific Lutheran University or California State University-Fresno?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California State University-Fresno is the more affordable option at $7,000 per year versus $19,589.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Pacific Lutheran University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 69.8% vs 55.9%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025