Overview
Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences was founded in 2005 in Yakima, Washington, with its College of Osteopathic Medicine welcoming its first class in 2008. The university was established specifically to address physician shortages in rural and underserved areas of Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, and Alaska, and it has since become a key pipeline for primary care physicians in the region. PNWU-COM is known for its mission-driven, community-based medical education model and its partnerships with rural clinical training sites throughout the Northwest.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Yakima, Washington |
| Founded | 2005 |
| Total students | 970 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 8:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 5% |
| Graduation rate | 92% |
| Average starting salary | $220,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $56,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $56,000 |
| Room & board | $14,000 |
| Average financial aid | $30,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 90% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | 3.60 |
| Regular deadline | February 1 |
Top Programs
- Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
- Rural Medicine Track
- Family Medicine
- Primary Care
- Biomedical Sciences
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.