Pacific Union College Sees Third Straight Year of Growth

At a time when many institutions of higher learning are struggling to maintain their enrollments, Pacific Union College has continued to grow in recent years.

This academic year, PUC’s headcount has increased from 884 to 930 students. It’s the third consecutive year of growth. While the trajectory may be modest, PUC is grateful, especially considering demographic challenges and a decade-long downward trend in student numbers. 

Furthermore, the college has made considerable strides in retaining its students. PUC maintains a nearly 90% retention rate for those who qualify to return for another year. 

President Ralph Trecartin said the continued growth is a testament to the hard work of the entire PUC campus community. 

“So many people at PUC have contributed to this effort,” Trecartin said. “We are thankful to God for His faithfulness and guidance as we continue to provide quality education for our students.”

Gene Edelbach, vice president for enrollment and marketing, said several factors are responsible for this growth—PUC’s innovative vision, transfer student programs, and new graduate offerings. Among these, the introduction of associate to bachelor’s degree programs in nursing and the online MSN and MBA programs have collectively added nearly 200 students to the college.

The associate to bachelor's degree program in nursing has been a particularly advantageous move for the college. Transitioning from an on-campus hybrid model to an online option has resulted in significant growth. The program's enrollment increased from just a few students to nearly a hundred in a little over a year.

Edelbach said the MSN and MBA programs, which are still relatively new, have attracted over 30 students in just a few short years. PUC expects these programs to triple in size over the next year.

Additionally, PUC remains committed to fostering diversity within its student body. The college is made up of three major cultural groups, each representing over 25% of the student body. A variety of other cultural backgrounds make up the remaining 25%.

PUC's off-site programs have also played a pivotal role in growth. The college already boasts a successful nursing program in Napa and has added a paramedic-to-RN program.

PUC's partnership with Adventist Health has yielded new cohorts in Lake and Mendocino counties, with an intake of 18 students set to double in the coming year. A new cohort in Sonora is on the horizon—evidence of the college’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities beyond its main campus.

As PUC continues to grow each year, it remains dedicated to its mission while continuing to innovate for the future. 

“The perseverance and hard work of the PUC community are paying off,” Edelbach said, “ensuring that the college remains a beacon of opportunity for students seeking high-quality higher education.”