Founded in 1849, Pacific University is nestled in the heart of the picturesque Willamette Valley in Forest Grove, Oregon, just a stone's throw away from the vibrant city of Portland. This private, not-for-profit institution sprawls across a campus that exudes both historic charm and modern vitality, serving a diverse community of over 3,500 students. Celebrated for its intimate atmosphere, Pacific University offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across its four colleges-arts and sciences, business, education, and health professions.
Distinctive to Pacific University are its robust healthcare programs and emphasis on interdisciplinary health education. The university's College of Health Professions, in particular, fosters a collaborative environment among various health fields, including an acclaimed Physician Assistant program, acknowledged for its high pass rates on national certification exams. Pacific's commitment to community health is also embodied through its unique interprofessional clinic, providing comprehensive care and hands-on learning experiences. Moreover, the undergraduate offerings are enriched by the innovative Media Arts program, catering to the burgeoning digital arts scene in the Pacific Northwest, with state-of-the-art facilities for budding filmmakers, journalists, and graphic designers.
Pacific University prides itself on its long-standing dedication to sustainability and community service. The university has received recognition for its green initiatives, encompassing everything from eco-friendly buildings to campus-wide recycling programs. Moreover, students often engage in service-learning projects that benefit both local and global communities, embodying the university's value of civic responsibility. Notably, Pacific's "Boxer Nation" is characterized by a passionate alumni network and a familial atmosphere that fosters lifelong connections and support systems. This close-knit community contributes to an enriching university experience, where mentorship and personal growth are as integral to education as academic pursuits.
Nonetheless, Pacific University faces challenges associated with its size and location. Being a smaller institution can limit the availability of certain resources often found at larger universities, such as the breadth of specialized research facilities or an extensive list of academic programs. Moreover, while its proximity to Portland provides cultural and internship opportunities, some students might find the quieter town of Forest Grove less dynamic compared to a major urban environment. These aspects may shape student experience and could influence the decision-making process for prospective students seeking a more bustling college atmosphere or a wider array of academic disciplines.
