University of the Pacific: Rankings, Programs, Admissions and Campus Life Overview

The University of the Pacific, California’s oldest chartered university founded in 1851, is a private institution known for its student-centered, experiential learning approach that blends liberal arts and professional education. It operates across three campuses in Stockton, Sacramento, and San Francisco, offering diverse programs in fields like business, engineering, law, health sciences, and the arts.

With a Fall 2024 enrollment of 6,945 students, the university maintains a diverse student body and a lightly competitive 94.8% acceptance rate. Pacific is ranked nationally for value and social mobility and boasts notable alumni across entertainment, sports, politics, and business. The university emphasizes small class sizes, strong faculty mentorship, hands-on learning, and a vibrant campus life.

University of the Pacific: A Comprehensive Overview

The University of the Pacific, California’s first and oldest chartered university, stands as a distinguished private institution with a rich history dating back to 1851. Renowned for its student-centered approach, integration of liberal arts and professional education, and emphasis on experiential learning, Pacific prepares individuals for lasting achievement and responsible leadership.

Campuses and Locations

University of the Pacific operates across three distinct campuses in Northern California, each offering unique opportunities:

Stockton Campus: The main and largest residential campus, spanning 175 acres, is recognized for its picturesque beauty. It houses a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in areas like business, education, engineering, and health sciences. The Stockton campus offers diverse study settings, including libraries, galleries, and various housing and dining options.

Sacramento Campus: This interdisciplinary center focuses on programs at the intersection of law, policy, education, and health.

San Francisco Campus: Located in the bustling SoMa district, this campus is home to innovative programs in data science, audiology, dentistry, and music therapy.

These strategic locations connect students to dynamic centers for industry and innovation, providing extensive opportunities for practical experience and career development.

Enrollment and Demographics (Fall 2023/2024 Data)

As of Fall 2023, the total enrollment across all three campuses was 6,755 students, with 3,297 undergraduates, 1,884 graduate students, and 1,577 professional students. As of Fall 2024, the total enrollment was 6,945 students, comprising 3,250 undergraduates, 2,068 graduate students, and 1,627 professional students.

The university demonstrates a commitment to diversity, with the following undergraduate demographics:

• Female: 54.1%
• Male: 44.7%
• None Reported: 1.2%
• Asian: 33.4%
• Hispanic/Latino: 28.6%
• White, non-Hispanic: 14.1%
• International: 7.2%
• Multi-ethnic: 5.6%
• Black, non-Hispanic: 3%
• American Indian/Alaskan Native: 0.2%
• Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander: 0.3%

Approximately 79.7% of the total student body originates from California, with 7.63% from out of state and 10.12% international students.

Admissions and Acceptance

The University of the Pacific is considered a lightly competitive university for admission. For Fall 2023 admissions:

• Applicants: 5,763
• Admitted Students: 5,467
• Acceptance Rate: 94.8% (This indicates that nearly 95 out of every 100 applicants are admitted).
• Yield Rate: 14.1% (The percentage of admitted students who ultimately enroll).

The university is test-optional, meaning SAT/ACT scores are not mandatory for admission. However, submitting them can strengthen an application.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements typically include:

• Official academic records/transcripts
• Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 80+, Duolingo 110+)
• Personal statement
• Certification of finances
• Academic recommendation from a high school counselor or teacher (optional but recommended)

Graduate Admission Requirements generally include:

1. Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
2. Official academic transcripts
3. Course-by-course foreign transcript evaluation (for international students)
4. Proof of English language proficiency
5. GRE score (for some programs)
6. Letters of recommendation (2-3)

Academic Programs and Rankings

University of the Pacific offers a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including:

Engineering and Technology: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Engineering Management, Mechanical Engineering. Master of Science in Engineering Science.

Arts and Humanities: Master of Music in Music Education, Master of Arts in Music Therapy, Master of Arts in Communication.

Business and Management: Undergraduate Business programs, Master of Accounting (MAcc), Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Science in Analytics, Master of Science in Finance.

Life Sciences and Medicine: Doctor of Audiology (AuD), Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD), Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Master of Science in Biological Sciences, Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology.

Education: Master of Arts in Education (various specializations), Education Specialist (EdS) in School Psychology, Doctor of Education (EdD) in Counseling Psychology and Leadership.

Law: Juris Doctor (JD), Master of Science in Law (MS), Master of Laws (LLM), Doctor of Juridical Science (JSD).

Key Rankings:

• QS World University Rankings 2026: #1401+ (stable at #1201 in 2024 and 2025).
• U.S. News & World Report 2025:
  • National University: #136 (improved from #151 in 2023 and #142 in 2024)
  • UG Business: #281 (ranked #276 in 2024)
  • Best Graduate Law Schools: #141 (in 2024)
• Wall Street Journal 2025:
  • Among all U.S. Colleges and Universities: #87
  • Social Mobility: #36
• U.S. News & World Report 2025: #3 Best Value in California.
• Grad Reports 2020:
  • #3 Biology degree program
  • #7 Civil Engineering degree program
• U.S. News & World Report 2022: #87 Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs
• Poets & Quants 2021: #70 Best for undergraduate business schools

Notable Alumni

The University of the Pacific boasts a diverse and accomplished alumni network, including:

Arts & Entertainment: Jamie Lee Curtis (actress), Janet Leigh (actress), Chris Isaak (musician, actor), Robert Culp (actor), Dave Brubeck (jazz pianist), Darren McGavin (actor), Doris Dörrie (German film director).

Sports: Pete Carroll (Super Bowl-winning NFL coach), Alex Spanos (billionaire, former owner of the San Diego Chargers), Dean Spanos (President and CEO, San Diego Chargers), Scott Boras (Major League Baseball agent), Jose M. Hernández (NASA astronaut).

Politics & Law: George Moscone (former Mayor of San Francisco), Dolores Huerta (labor leader and activist), Arif Alvi (former President of Pakistan), Theodore Olson (former U.S. Solicitor General), Mark Amodei (U.S. Representative).

Business & Other Fields: George Tchobanoglous (professor of engineering), Matt de la Peña (Newbery Medal-winning author).

Student Life and Resources

University of the Pacific emphasizes a vibrant campus life with a student-faculty ratio of 14:1 and an average class size of 23, fostering personalized attention and strong faculty mentorship. Approximately 75% of undergraduate students are enrolled in an experiential learning course, highlighting the university’s commitment to hands-on education. The university also offers various student support services, including financial aid and scholarship opportunities, and has a strong retention rate for full-time undergraduates at 89%.

With its commitment to academic excellence, diverse programs, and a supportive learning environment across its three distinct campuses, the University of the Pacific continues to shape future leaders and professionals.

FAQs about University of the Pacific

What is the University of the Pacific known for?
The University of the Pacific is known for its student-centered education, hands-on learning, integration of liberal arts and professional programs, and strong faculty mentorship. It also has a rich history as California’s first chartered university.

Where is the University of the Pacific located?
The university has three campuses in Northern California: the main campus in Stockton, a professional-focused campus in Sacramento, and a specialized campus in San Francisco.

What programs does the University of the Pacific offer?
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in business, engineering, health sciences, law, education, arts, and humanities.

What is the acceptance rate at the University of the Pacific?
The acceptance rate for Fall 2023 was 94.8%, making it a lightly competitive university.

Is the University of the Pacific test-optional?
Yes, the University of the Pacific is test-optional. SAT or ACT scores are not required but can strengthen an application if submitted.

What is the student-to-faculty ratio at the University of the Pacific?
The student-to-faculty ratio is 14:1, allowing for small class sizes and personalized attention.

How many students are enrolled at the University of the Pacific?
As of Fall 2024, total enrollment across all campuses was 6,945 students.

What are the demographics of the undergraduate student body?
The undergraduate student body is diverse, with 33.4% Asian, 28.6% Hispanic/Latino, 14.1% White, and 7.2% international students. About 54.1% of undergraduates are female.

What are the top-ranked programs at the University of the Pacific?
Notable rankings include #3 for Best Value in California (U.S. News 2025), #87 overall in the U.S. (Wall Street Journal 2025), and top programs in biology, civil engineering, and business.

What is campus life like at the University of the Pacific?
Campus life is vibrant, with active student organizations, hands-on learning opportunities, and a focus on leadership development and community engagement.

What is the average class size at the University of the Pacific?
The average class size is 23 students, fostering close interaction between students and professors.

Does the University of the Pacific offer financial aid?
Yes, the university provides a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study, and student loans.

What experiential learning opportunities are available?
Approximately 75% of undergraduates participate in experiential learning, including internships, clinicals, co-ops, and community-based projects.

Who are some notable alumni of the University of the Pacific?
Notable alumni include actress Jamie Lee Curtis, NFL coach Pete Carroll, labor leader Dolores Huerta, musician Chris Isaak, and NASA astronaut Jose M. Hernández.

What are the admission requirements for international students?
International applicants must submit academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency (IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 80+, Duolingo 110+), a personal statement, and financial certification.

What is the University of the Pacific’s ranking nationally?
For 2025, it is ranked #136 among National Universities by U.S. News & World Report and #87 by the Wall Street Journal.

What graduate programs are offered at the University of the Pacific?
Graduate programs include engineering, business, education, law, pharmacy, audiology, dentistry, and speech-language pathology, among others.

What is the retention rate at the University of the Pacific?
The university has a strong full-time undergraduate retention rate of 89%, indicating high student satisfaction.

Does the University of the Pacific have multiple campuses?
Yes, it has campuses in Stockton (main), Sacramento (law, policy, education, health), and San Francisco (dentistry, audiology, data science, music therapy).

Is the University of the Pacific a good value?
Yes, it is ranked #3 for Best Value among California universities by U.S. News & World Report 2025.

How diverse is the University of the Pacific?
The university is highly diverse, with significant representation from Asian, Hispanic/Latino, multi-ethnic, international, and other minority student groups.

What are the key admission deadlines?
Deadlines vary by program, but most undergraduate applications follow the general priority deadlines in the fall for the following academic year.

Are letters of recommendation required for admission?
They are optional but highly recommended for undergraduate admission. Most graduate programs require two to three letters of recommendation.

Does the University of the Pacific require the GRE for graduate admissions?
Some graduate programs require the GRE, while others are test-optional or do not require it.

What housing options are available for students?
The Stockton campus offers a variety of residential options, including dormitories, apartments, and themed housing communities.

What support services are available for students?
The university offers academic advising, career services, counseling, tutoring, financial aid guidance, and international student support.

Can students participate in study abroad programs?
Yes, the University of the Pacific offers study abroad opportunities in partnership with universities worldwide.

What is the focus of the Sacramento campus?
The Sacramento campus specializes in interdisciplinary programs, especially in law, education, policy, and health.

What programs are offered at the San Francisco campus?
The San Francisco campus hosts programs in dentistry, audiology, data science, and music therapy.

How does the University of the Pacific support career development?
The university offers internships, job placement services, resume workshops, career fairs, and strong alumni networking opportunities.