Olivet Nazarene University

Here, at one of the nation's premier Christian universities, we believe higher education should have a higher purpose.

With accredited programs, award-winning academics, and a faculty touting degrees from a wide spectrum of world-class educational institutions, Olivet stands committed to integrating faith and learning.

Nestled in the historic village of Bourbonnais, Illinois, Olivet students gain knowledge and wisdom, and secure degrees that place them ahead of the pack, with portfolios and experience as evidence of an “Education with a Christian purpose.”

At Olivet, learning and faith go hand in hand. The University affirms that all truth is God’s truth, and therefore, cannot be segmented into secular and non-secular categories and departments.

Since 1907, Olivet has provided second-to-none academic instruction for the purpose of personal development and career preparedness. Through challenging instruction and personal interaction, students embark upon lives of service to God and humanity, living out the “Education with a Christian Purpose” mission.

Doctors, lawyers, physical therapists, and pharmacists all begin with an accredited Bachelor’s degree. These are just a handful of careers that begin with pre-professional studies at Olivet. The world is your campus when you choose to study abroad or in one of the many exciting programs in multiple U.S. cities.

Graduates within Olivet’s Roaring Tigers ROTC Battalion are commissioned officers in addition to receiving a bachelor’s degree. You won’t find yourself sitting passively listening to lectures. Ours is a dynamic, engaging, interactive experience designed to empower you to achieve your goals in life — whether it’s getting into an elite graduate or medical school, or stepping into that dream career.

With more than 140 areas of study, 4900 enrolled students, and a stunning campus, Olivet Nazarene University stands tall as one of the nation’s premier hubs of learning and faith. Our nationally recognized academic programs, title-winning athletics, vibrant, energized social climate and countless ministry opportunities make this place unique. Olivet seamlessly integrates passion and calling with career preparedness.

Applying takes only a few minutes, and is a great way to get the ball rolling. It helps us know you are serious about college, and considering Olivet. We will take it from there.

We award more than $110 million each year. Be sure you are considered in the allocation of talent- and need-based awards. Our enrollment advisors and family advocates make it easy. Choosing your major can be intimidating. Not here. Take a look at all the areas of study and majors we offer. Our unique liberal arts setting allows students to explore and discover their passion.

At Olivet, you’re challenged not only in the lecture hall, but also in Chapel, the sports arenas and the rehearsal studios– connecting over conversations in campus housing, across the dinner table, and in every corner of the Olivet campus.

Our engaging, outgoing and endlessly-energetic Student Development team exists to maximize each student’s college experience and help prepare you for wherever life leads after your four years at Olivet.

Learning and growing go hand in hand at Olivet. Here, you’ll learn truth and gain wisdom as you are stretched academically and spiritually. The entire campus gathers twice each week for chapel, and there’s a freedom to discuss matters of faith openly. Professors and staff serve as mentors, and worship is a vital part of campus life.

Living on campus is one of the highlights of the ONU experience. Resident directors and resident assistants live within our student residence halls, providing guidance and support, ensuring a positive living experience for every student.

One of the keys to a successful college career is navigating all the various elements: academic, social, spiritual and physical. We don’t take that lightly at Olivet, and we have provided students with healthy eating options, and a dynamic Recreational Life Center, where students can swim, climb, exercise, and enjoy fun together.

One of the nation's premier top 20 Christian radio stations, Shine.FM, is at the footsteps of the campus. Now in its 50th year of broadcasting, Shine.FM and its partners Brilla.Fm and Sparkhd.fm reach a limitless online audience with the daily message of hope.

At Olivet, we make health and nutrition a priority. When it comes to food, we provide an extensive variety of healthy and delicious meal options in our four on-campus locations.

As a student at Olivet, you will have access to every service necessary to prepare you for success in your career and in life. We are, in every way, a student-centered University. Nowhere is this commitment more evident than in the many services and resources we provide to ensure the academic and personal success of our students. We take a caring, highly personalized approach — not only in the classroom, but in every area of student support. We believe in the vast potential of every student. And we do all we can to help them become their best.

The best way to see if Olivet is a good fit for you is to visit the campus. We offer unique, customized visit days every weekday, and special Purple & Gold days, too, where you can get up close at all things ONU.