University of the Pacific

University of the Pacific: Courses, Tuition Fees, Admissions and Student Life

University Overview

The University of the Pacific is a private, nonprofit university located in Stockton, California, United States. Founded in 1851, it is recognised as California's first university and has a long history of providing personalised higher education, professional training and experiential learning opportunities.

The university operates across three campuses in Northern California: Stockton, Sacramento and San Francisco. Its main residential and undergraduate campus is in Stockton, while the Sacramento campus focuses on law, health sciences and education-related programs, and the San Francisco campus is home to dentistry and selected health science programs.

University of the Pacific offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees through its schools and colleges. Its educational approach combines academic knowledge, practical experience, faculty mentorship and opportunities to participate in research, internships and community engagement.

With a relatively small university community, individual academic support and access to the professional and cultural opportunities of Northern California, Pacific attracts students seeking a personalised American university experience.

Why Choose the University of the Pacific?

Students considering the University of the Pacific can benefit from several academic and campus features.

Long academic history: Established in 1851, the university has a longstanding record of higher education in California.

Personalised learning: Smaller classes and opportunities to work closely with faculty help students receive individual academic attention.

Wide range of programs: Students can explore subjects across business, engineering, sciences, humanities, music, health sciences and other professional fields.

Experiential education: Internships, research, practical projects, clinical experiences and community-based learning complement classroom instruction.

Three Northern California campuses: Students have access to different academic and professional environments in Stockton, Sacramento and San Francisco.

Career preparation: Academic programs are designed to connect classroom learning with professional skills and employment opportunities.

Schools and Colleges

The University of the Pacific organises its academic programs through nine schools and colleges.

College of the Pacific

The College of the Pacific is the university's principal liberal arts and sciences college. It offers programs in the natural sciences, social sciences, humanities, fine arts and performing arts.

Students can explore subjects such as biology, chemistry, psychology, communication, economics, political science, mathematics and environmental studies.

Eberhardt School of Business

The Eberhardt School of Business provides business education with an emphasis on practical learning and professional development. Students can study areas such as accounting, finance, business administration, marketing and management.

The school focuses on developing analytical, communication, leadership and decision-making skills.

School of Engineering and Computer Science

This school offers programs designed for students interested in technology, engineering and computing. Academic areas include computer engineering, computer science, electrical engineering and related technical disciplines.

Students gain experience through laboratory work, projects and opportunities to connect their education with industry requirements.

Conservatory of Music

The Conservatory of Music provides professional music education for students interested in performance, composition, music education, music therapy and related fields.

Students can develop their musical abilities through individual instruction, ensemble participation, performances and academic study.

Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy

The Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy offers professional education in pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences. Its programs emphasise scientific knowledge, patient care, clinical experience and the changing needs of the healthcare sector.

School of Health Sciences

The School of Health Sciences prepares students for careers in healthcare and related professional fields. Its programs combine academic instruction, practical learning and opportunities to understand patient and community needs.

Benerd College

Benerd College offers professional education programs, particularly in education and related areas. Its programs support individuals seeking careers in teaching, educational leadership and professional development.

McGeorge School of Law

Located in Sacramento, McGeorge School of Law provides legal education in areas including public law, advocacy, international law and other legal disciplines.

Its location near California's state government institutions provides students with opportunities to understand public policy and legal practice.

Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry

The Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry is based in San Francisco and is known for its professional dental education. Its programs combine classroom learning, clinical training and patient-care experience.

Popular Courses at the University of the Pacific

The university offers a broad selection of undergraduate, graduate and professional programs. Program availability and admission requirements vary by degree level and campus.

Some academic areas students may consider include:

• Business Administration
• Accounting
• Finance
• Computer Science
• Computer Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Psychology
• Economics
• Political Science
• Communication
• Music
• Physics
• Environmental Science
• Health Sciences
• Pharmacy
• Dentistry
• Law
• Education

Students should review the official undergraduate program catalogue to confirm current degree availability, curriculum and campus location.

Tuition Fees and Cost of Attendance

The University of the Pacific is a private university, and tuition costs are generally higher than those at many public institutions.

For the 2026–2027 academic year, the estimated undergraduate tuition and fees are approximately US$60,100 per year. The estimated annual cost of attendance for a student living on campus is approximately US$79,856.

The total cost of attendance may include:

• Tuition and mandatory university fees
• Accommodation and housing
• Meal plans
• Books and academic supplies
• Transportation
• Personal expenses
• Health insurance and other applicable costs

These figures are estimates and may change according to the student's program, accommodation choice, course load and individual expenses.

International applicants should also account for additional costs associated with immigration documentation, travel and initial settlement in the United States.

Scholarships and Financial Aid for International Students

The University of the Pacific offers merit-based scholarship opportunities for eligible international undergraduate applicants.

International first-year and transfer applicants are automatically considered for certain international student merit scholarships when they submit their admission applications. Scholarship decisions may depend on academic performance and the university's eligibility criteria.

Students should understand that the university does not guarantee full-tuition or full-cost scholarships for international students. The amount of financial support can vary, and applicants should carefully review their admission and scholarship offers.

Other financial planning considerations include:

• Reviewing the university's estimated annual expenses.
• Checking scholarship eligibility and renewal conditions.
• Preparing financial documentation for the student visa process.
• Considering personal savings and other permitted funding sources.
• Confirming whether scholarships can be combined with other awards.

Students should contact the university's admissions or financial aid office for the most accurate information about available funding.

Admission Requirements for International Students

International applicants must meet the university's academic and documentation requirements. Requirements may vary depending on the program, applicant category and previous educational background.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Students applying for a bachelor's degree generally need to provide:

• A completed online application.
• Official secondary school academic records.
• High school graduation certificate or equivalent qualification.
• Personal statement.
• Academic recommendation, where required or submitted as supporting material.
• Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable.
• A clear copy of the passport information page.
• Certification of finances for international student documentation.

Some programs may require additional interviews, auditions, portfolios or other supporting documents.

Transfer Admission Requirements

Students who have previously attended another college or university may apply as transfer students.

Transfer applicants generally need to submit official academic records from their previous institutions. International transfer students may also need to provide credential evaluations and official course descriptions so the university can assess previous coursework.

Transfer credit decisions depend on the university's academic policies and the relevance of completed courses to the intended degree.

Graduate Admission Requirements

Graduate admission requirements differ by school and program. Applicants may need a recognised bachelor's degree, academic transcripts, recommendation letters, a statement of purpose, a résumé and additional program-specific documents.

Certain professional programs, including law, pharmacy and dentistry, follow separate admission procedures.

English Language Requirements

International applicants whose previous education was not conducted in English may need to demonstrate English proficiency.

The university accepts recognised English language tests, including:

• TOEFL iBT
• IELTS Academic
• Duolingo English Test
• Pearson Test of English

The required score depends on the applicant's program and admission category. Students should check the latest university requirements before booking an examination or submitting their application.

Some applicants may qualify for an English proficiency waiver based on their educational background or other university-approved criteria.

How to Apply to the University of the Pacific

International students can follow a structured application process.

Step 1: Choose a program

Explore the undergraduate programs and select a degree that matches your academic interests and career plans.

Step 2: Review admission requirements

Check the academic, English language and program-specific requirements for the intended intake.

Step 3: Complete the application

Submit the university application or the accepted application platform with accurate personal and academic information.

Step 4: Submit supporting documents

Provide academic transcripts, personal statements, English test scores where required, recommendations and other requested documents.

Step 5: Complete financial documentation

International students should prepare the required financial certification documents and evidence of available funding.

Step 6: Receive the admission decision

Monitor the application portal and respond to requests for additional information. Successful applicants receive instructions concerning their admission offer and next steps.

Step 7: Prepare for the student visa process

After meeting the university's enrolment and financial documentation requirements, eligible international students can proceed with the required Form I-20 and F-1 visa application process.

Campus Facilities and Student Resources

The Stockton campus is the university's main residential campus and covers approximately 175 acres. Its landscaped grounds and Collegiate Gothic architecture create a distinctive university environment.

Students have access to academic buildings, libraries, laboratories, computer facilities, study areas, dining options, residence halls and recreational spaces.

The university also provides academic advising, career services, student support offices and opportunities to participate in research and extracurricular activities.

Facilities and resources vary across the Stockton, Sacramento and San Francisco campuses according to their academic focus.

Student Accommodation and Housing

The Stockton campus offers residential accommodation for students who want to live within the university community.

Housing options can include residence halls and other university-managed residential arrangements. Students should review available room types, meal plans, housing costs and application deadlines before confirming accommodation.

International students are encouraged to apply for housing early, particularly when travelling from outside the United States and arriving for the beginning of an academic term.

Students studying at the Sacramento or San Francisco campuses should check the accommodation options and commuting arrangements relevant to their campus.

Student Life at the University of the Pacific

Student life at Pacific combines academic activities, campus organisations, cultural events, athletics and community engagement.

Students can participate in clubs, student organisations, leadership programs, music activities, volunteering and campus events. These opportunities help students develop communication skills, build friendships and become part of the university community.

The university's international student population also contributes to a multicultural campus environment. Students from different countries and educational backgrounds bring diverse experiences to academic and social activities.

Athletics are another part of campus life. Students can participate in recreational activities, attend sporting events and support the university's athletic teams.

Location and Surrounding Opportunities

The main Stockton campus is located at 3601 Pacific Avenue in Stockton, California.

Stockton provides access to several major Northern California destinations. Sacramento and the San Francisco Bay Area are within reach for travel, cultural experiences and professional networking.

The university's wider regional presence can also create opportunities for students to explore different professional environments. The Sacramento campus is located near California's state government institutions, while the San Francisco campus provides access to a major centre for business, technology, healthcare and culture.

The university's three-campus structure gives students access to distinct academic and regional settings, although students should confirm which campus hosts their selected program.

Career Development and Practical Learning

The University of the Pacific emphasises experiential education and career preparation.

Depending on their program, students may participate in internships, research projects, clinical rotations, externships, community service and industry-related activities.

Career development services can help students explore professional interests, prepare résumés, improve interview skills and identify employment opportunities.

Students are encouraged to build professional networks, develop practical skills and gain relevant experience throughout their studies.

International students should also understand the employment rules and immigration conditions that apply to F-1 student status, including restrictions on off-campus employment and the requirements for practical training.

Accreditation and Academic Recognition

The University of the Pacific is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Its institutional accreditation supports the academic recognition and quality assurance of its eligible degree programs.

Several professional schools also hold specialised accreditations relevant to their disciplines. Applicants interested in pharmacy, dentistry, law, engineering or other professional pathways should check the accreditation status and professional recognition requirements for their specific program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the University of the Pacific public or private?

The University of the Pacific is a private, nonprofit university in California.

Where is the University of the Pacific located?

Its main residential campus is in Stockton, California. It also operates campuses in Sacramento and San Francisco.

When was the University of the Pacific established?

The university was founded in 1851 and is recognised as California's first university.

How much is undergraduate tuition at the University of the Pacific?

The estimated undergraduate tuition and fees for 2026–2027 are approximately US$60,100 per academic year. The estimated total on-campus cost of attendance is approximately US$79,856.

Does the University of the Pacific offer scholarships to international students?

Yes. Eligible international undergraduate applicants are automatically considered for certain merit-based scholarships. Full-tuition and full-cost scholarships are not guaranteed.

What English language tests does the university accept?

The university accepts recognised tests such as TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, Duolingo English Test and PTE. Required scores depend on the program and applicant category.

Does the university offer undergraduate programs?

Yes. It offers undergraduate programs in areas including business, engineering, computer science, sciences, humanities, music and other disciplines.

Does the University of the Pacific have student accommodation?

Yes. The Stockton campus offers university residential accommodation. Students should confirm availability, costs and application deadlines before enrolment.

Is the University of the Pacific accredited?

Yes. The university is institutionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Conclusion

The University of the Pacific offers a personalised educational experience through its nine schools and colleges and three Northern California campuses. Its academic programs combine classroom instruction with practical learning, research, professional development and opportunities for community engagement.

For international students, the university provides a range of undergraduate and professional study options, international admission support and merit-based scholarship consideration. However, applicants should plan carefully for tuition, living expenses, English language requirements and visa documentation.

Students interested in studying in California can consider the University of the Pacific as an option for building academic knowledge, developing professional skills and gaining experience in a diverse university environment.