Physics at Pacific Lutheran University

Based on comparable Washington physics programs, Pacific Lutheran's graduates can expect first-year earnings around $41,000—roughly $6,000 below the national median for physics degrees. That's a meaningful gap, particularly since physics typically commands stronger starting salaries than most bachelor's degrees. The estimated debt of $23,000 translates to a manageable 0.56 debt-to-earnings ratio, but it's worth noting that similar programs in Washington often carry less debt (the state median is $17,000).

The wider context matters here. Whitworth University, another private school in Washington, reports physics graduates earning $65,000—nearly 60% more than what PLU's peer data suggests. Even UW-Seattle matches the state median at roughly $41,000 while likely offering lower tuition for in-state students. Physics can be an excellent foundation for careers in engineering, data science, or graduate school, but the pathway from a smaller program matters. If your child is considering graduate work in physics or related fields, the undergraduate institution's research opportunities and faculty connections become critical factors that earnings data alone can't capture.

The bottom line: you're looking at typical debt levels but below-average earnings potential compared to physics programs nationally. Before committing, investigate what specific advantages PLU offers—research opportunities, graduate school placement rates, or industry connections—that might justify the gap between these estimated outcomes and what larger or more specialized programs deliver.