Pacific University has introduced an innovative program called Pacific Priority to ease the path to a successful college and professional career. The program offers guaranteed graduate school admissions at the same time as undergraduate admission, which allows students to reserve a seat in a Pacific University graduate program before they even begin their first year of college.
Incoming students can apply for grad school as soon as they commit to Pacific, while current undergraduates and transfer students can apply as juniors. Students are then guaranteed a spot in the graduate program of their choice, provided that they meet specific academic and admissions benchmarks throughout their undergraduate studies.
This program is currently available for students who plan to enter Pacific University in 2024-2025, and it will also be available to current Pacific undergraduate students. The guarantee applies to 10 different graduate programs, which include three doctoral programs, four disciplines in the health professions, and three master’s programs in education:
- Doctor of Occupational Therapy
- Doctor of Optometry
- Doctor of Physical Therapy
- Master of Science in Athletic Training
- Master of Business Administration
- Master of Nonprofit Leadership
- Master of Social Work
- Master of Education
- Master of Arts in Teaching
- Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
Upon completing their undergraduate studies, many Pacific Priority students choose to begin graduate classes. However, certain programs permit accelerated dual admission or allow students to take graduate courses during their fourth year of undergraduate education.
“Students often choose Pacific with a clear sense of purpose. Many are planning on careers in healthcare or education, and the Pacific Priority program gives them a clear path to achieving those goals,” said Pacific University President Jenny Coyle. “Our students are passionate about serving their communities and uplifting others through their careers, and we are here to empower them in that vision.”
The Pacific Priority program now includes a two-year graduation guarantee for transfer students, in addition to the longstanding four-year graduation guarantee for undergraduate students.
“College is an investment for our students and their families, and they want to know that it is one that will pay off,” said Sarah Phillips, interim vice president of enrollment management and student affairs. “These programs assure students that they can graduate on time and have a direct pathway to the next step in their lives.”
Pacific University in Oregon serves over 3,600 students in various fields including arts, sciences, business, education, health professions, and optometry.
