Fresno Pacific University

Fresno, California, United States · Est. 1944 · Private University

Christian university in California's Central Valley with 80+ years of faith-based education and strong four-year graduation guarantee.

  • Founded 1944 as Pacific Bible Institute by U.S. Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches
  • Private Christian university with Mennonite Brethren affiliation
  • Located in Fresno, California; main campus 42 acres with 16 buildings
  • Enrollment: ~2,731 undergraduates, ~1,298 postgraduates
  • Offers 40+ bachelor's degrees and advanced credentials in education, business, nursing, divinity, and social work
  • NCAA Division II athletics (Pacific West Conference); 17 varsity sports; mascot: Sunbirds

Academics

Fresno Pacific offers bachelor's degrees in more than 40 fields with over 100 areas of study, including biblical and theological studies, business administration, nursing, education, and environmental science. The university also offers advanced degrees and credentials in education, business, leadership, social work, kinesiology, nursing, divinity, ministry, and marriage & family therapy. The institution is organized into two schools: the School of Arts & Sciences and the School of Graduate & Professional Studies. Approximately 80% of professors hold the highest degree in their field and serve as mentors to students.

Campus & Student Life

The main 42-acre campus is located in southeast Fresno with 16 buildings including Hiebert Library, McDonald Hall, and the Warkentine Culture and Arts Center. The university maintains four regional campuses in Central California (Merced, North Fresno, Visalia, and Bakersfield). On-campus housing is available for undergraduates, and the university offers dining services, a wellness center, and numerous student clubs and organizations. Spiritual life is woven into the campus community through worship opportunities and the Office of Spiritual Formation.

Admissions

Fresno Pacific welcomes high school students, transfer students, first-generation students, international students, and degree completion students. The university offers multiple pathways including a Bridge to Ministry Pathway and study abroad opportunities in Costa Rica, Ireland, and India. International students must meet English proficiency requirements and obtain F-1 student visas. The university guarantees graduation within four years for traditional undergraduate students.

Outcomes & Athletics

The university reports the highest four-year graduation rate in the Central Valley at 60% for traditional undergraduates, compared to 12–15% in the CSU system. Fresno Pacific competes in NCAA Division II, primarily in the Pacific West Conference, with 17 varsity sports including baseball, basketball, soccer, swimming, tennis, track & field, water polo, volleyball, and cross country. Notable alumni include NBA assistant coach Ron Adams, professional soccer player Pablo Campos, and former MLB pitcher Dan Quisenberry.

Founded
1944
Type
Private University
Courses
14
Total intake
Not yet verified
AffiliationU.S. Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches
Websitehttps://www.fresno.edu/
HousingAvailable
Some details are still being verified.

Quick stats

Courses offered
14
Avg career outcomes
$58.9K
Total intake
Not yet verified
Housing
Yes
Data last verified June 2026 · compiled from official sources