Yakima’s University
Pacific Northwest University (PNWU) was established in 2005 as a grassroots initiative—created by our community, for our community.
Our mission is to educate and train health care providers to serve rural and medically underserved areas of the Pacific Northwest.
Your health care provider might be one of our over 1,500 graduates – many of our alumni are practicing in the Yakima area.
PNWU’S Mission Targets Five Pacific Northwest States:
Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Montana, and Washington
Healthcare providers from rural areas are more likely to practice in that area after graduation. That’s why PNWU seeks to recruit nearby students. Our local students are passionate about finding solutions to health problems in their communities, and they are dedicated to learning how to heal the people they grew up with.
If you know anyone interested in our mission to serve the Northwest, we would love to have them apply!
Our Programs
PNWU’s 70-acre campus is dedicated to health sciences. With 665 students across five health programs, 44 full-time faculty members, and 151 staff, PNWU is a hub of collaboration and innovation.
| Program | Length | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine | 4 years | Over 1,400 osteopathic physicians (DOs) graduated, with more than 50% going on to residencies in primary care specialties. Leading the nation in graduates practicing in primary care specialties, rural areas, and Health Professional Shortage Areas. |
| Doctor of Physical Therapy | 3 years | Focused on training movement system experts to serve rural and underserved communities. Students participate in integrated clinical experiences serving underinsured clients starting in their first year. |
| Master of Occupational Therapy | 2 years | Prepares occupational therapists as leaders, scholars, and change agents to serve rural and underserved communities. Inclusive admissions process designed to lower barriers to entry. |
| Master of Medical Sciences | 1 year | A one-year program introducing students to a broad range of health care topics while strengthening academic credentials for admission to health care professional programs. 92% of graduates advance to a health professional school or career. |
| Doctor of Dental Medicine | 4 years | Washington State Dental Association calls the program “one of the most innovative in the country.” Students gain real-world experience at one of three FQHCs during years two-through-four. |
Student Life
Community outreach and service opportunities
Students get to work with local community members in the classroom and in the community to address healthcare problems.
Student Government Association (SGA)
PNWU’s SGA promotes healthcare professions, supports clubs and classroom activities, and improves the quality of life for students.
Student Clubs
Experience PNWU to the fullest with over 40 PNWU Student Clubs that cater to your interests and passions!
Research
PNWU offers a research program that provides opportunities for students to participate in various aspects of research, including research projects with faculty mentors.
WANT TO GET INVOLVED?
Tell anyone who might interested in applying about PNWU.
We’re always looking for students who believe in our mission to serve rural and underserved areas.
You can also follow us on social media to stay up-to-date: