Point Loma Nazarene University

Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU) is an arts college, which has roots dating back to 1902 when it was founded as a Bible college by the Church of the Nazarene.

Its main campus is located on the Point Loma oceanfront in San Diego in California. PLNU has five different locations, with graduate programmes in Bakersfield, Inland Empire and Mission Valley San Diego. 

There are a variety of courses on offer for students, in over 60 areas across the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees, as well as graduate degrees. PLNU has all the usual academic programs for both undergraduates and graduates, including: accounting, chemistry, business administration and political science.

Uniquely, though, the university has the School of Theology and Christian Ministry, which offers special programmes such as study abroad options and an honours programme.

PLNU offers students the chance to undertake internships in the local area, alongside their education to advance their skills and prepare them for the professional world. 

There is a prominent and successful debate team, which in the past has won the National Parliamentary Debate Association.

PLNU hosts numerous events annually, which include arts & culture gatherings, outdoor activities, and faith and ministry opportunities.

Athletic teams at PLNU compete as a member of the Pacific West Conference in NCAA Division II. There are 11 university-sponsored teams, which include: cross-country, soccer, basketball, baseball, tennis, track & field, volleyball, and golf. 

Notable alumni include Jim Dobson, Jr., an American evangelical Christian author, psychologist, and founder of Focus on the Family in 1977, Greg Laswell, a musician, recording engineer, and producer, and Doug TenNapel, an American animator, writer, cartoonist, and video game designer.