About PLNU

Point Loma Nazarene University is a selective, Christian liberal arts university located in San Diego, California, with graduate program regional centers throughout Southern California. Home to approximately 2,400 undergraduates and 1,100 graduate students, PLNU is committed to teaching, shaping, and sending students into the world prepared to use their gifts.

PLNU’s undergraduate programs are offered at the Point Loma campus. Renowned for its whole-person approach, PLNU's undergraduate educational opportunities include research, honors projects, study abroad, short-term mission trips, student ministries, chapel services, athletics, and a host of clubs and organizations that enrich the classroom experience. Spiritual growth and putting faith into action through service are central here.

Point Loma Nazarene University also offers graduate education in biology, business, education, nursing, and theology. PLNU’s School of Education offers graduate programs at four regional centers in Arcadia, Bakersfield, the Inland Empire (including Corona), and San Diego’s Mission Valley. Master’s degrees, an education specialist degree, credentials, and certificates are available. In addition, the Mission Valley Regional Center offers programs in business (MBA) and nursing (MSN and post-MSN certifications). Graduate programs in biology (M.A. and M.S.), ministry (M.Min.), and theology (M.A. in religion) are offered on the Point Loma campus.

PLNU Highlights

• In the 2008 Open Doors report, Point Loma's study abroad program ranked 15th (among master’s degree-granting institutions) for percentage of undergraduates participating.

• Since 1989, approximately 80 percent of PLNU graduates who have applied to medical school have been accepted. This is roughly twice the national average.

• Point Loma Nazarene University is nationally recognized for its leadership in the area of creation care, serving as a model for many universities around the world.




• The athletics programs at PLNU are known for spirited competition and for developing athletes. At PLNU, there seven men's and seven women's teams that compete in the NAIA.

• Point Loma Nazarene University has a history of partnering with donors as we pursue the Mission and Vision God has given to the university. Learn more about PLNU's Strategic Giving Priorities .
  
  

• Point Loma is home to 11 centers and institutes , including the Fermanian Business Center, Armenian Center for International Development, Center for Justice and Reconciliation, Center for Pastoral Leadership, Center for Teaching and Learning, Early Childhood Learning Center, Institute of Politics and Public Services, Margaret Stevenson Center for Women's Studies, and Wesleyan Center for 21st Century Studies.
  
  

• Through PLNU's LoveWorks Short-term Mission Program, more than 2,000 students, faculty, staff, and alumni have walked alongside pastors, missionaries, and congregations in approximately 60 world areas.
  
  

• PLNU's Honors Program gives students who finish their junior year with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher the opportunity to undertake a senior honors project. With guidance from a major professor and in community with other honors scholars, students complete original research or creative projects, providing excellent preparation for graduate school and future employment.
  
  

• San Diego is a city bustling with business opportunities. Known for its outstanding biotech, telecommunications, and high-tech industries in particular, San Diego is the ideal place to study, intern and work. San Diego is also a nexus for international business with its close proximity to Mexico and the Pacific Rim.
  
  

• PLNU's regional centers provide opportunities for career and educational advancement for graduate students throughout Southern California. By choosing a program in their local area, PLNU graduate and credential students benefit from regional networking opportunities, as well as greater convenience. Regional centers are located in Arcadia, Bakersfield, the Inland Empire (including Corona), and Mission Valley, San Diego.