SCHOOL OF GRADUATE AND CONTINUING STUDIES

Ryan Spittal, M.B.A., Vice President for Graduate and Continuing Studies Education

Living, learning, and faith. Here, they are united, indivisible, one. Faith is at the heart of Olivet Nazarene University.

At Olivet, the priorities go beyond providing the finest programs. The true aim of the University is to train men and women for lives of service to God and humanity. The School of Graduate and Continuing Studies meets the challenge of providing quality, innovative educational programs to fulfill the lifelong learning needs of adults, giving them the expertise they need to impact their world.

Formed in 1986 in response to a growing demand for adult education, the School of Graduate and Continuing Studies desires to accommodate the special requirements of adults who are interested in receiving an associate, bachelor's, master's or doctorate degree, but who must also continue to meet their personal and professional commitments.

Recognizing that learning continues throughout life, Olivet Nazarene University serves adults interested in pursuing graduate and undergraduate professional studies. The School of Graduate and Continuing Studies attempts to fulfill the following general objectives:

• To provide for intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth through quality degree programs that integrate education, values, and faith.
• To offer educational degree programs to adult students who appreciate the religious and ethical teachings of the University and whose occupations, family responsibilities, personal preferences, and/or geographical location do not permit them to live in residence on the campus.
• To provide an atmosphere that will stimulate intellectual curiosity and constructive critical thinking through the exploration of the ideas inherent in the liberal arts, professional traditions, and the Christian faith.
• To develop an appreciation of current research, the value of research, and an acquaintance with basic research methodology.
• To strengthen the professional competencies of students in their areas of specialization.
• To develop an increased understanding of human nature and Christian values, with an emphasis on the individual's ethical and moral responsibilities.

Most of the programs are offered in special packages in which the degree may be earned in about two years by enrolling in classes which meet once a week, or in some programs, through classes which meet for one week, two or three times a year. In addition, most programs integrate study group activities. Our programs combine theory with practical experience to give working adults the skills needed to advance in today's rapidly changing economy.

In addition to programs meeting on campus in Bourbonnais, Olivet has authorization to offer the following degree programs throughout the greater Chicago area: Master of Business Administration, Master of Arts in Education, and the undergraduate degree-completion programs in Business Administration and Nursing. Classes are held in Chicago's northwest and south suburbs, downtown Chicago, Champaign, and other locations in Illinois.

Olivet's School of Graduate and Continuing Studies maintains offices in Bourbonnais (815-939-5291) and in Rolling Meadows (847-590-0675). The toll free number is 877-4OLIVET (877-465-4838).

The material contained in this chapter is for information only and does not constitute a contract between the student and the University. At the time of printing, the information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge. However, the School of Graduate and Continuing Studies reserves the right to revise information, requirements, or policies; amend rules; alter regulations; and change financial charges at any time in accordance with the best interests of the institution.

The School of Graduate and Continuing Studies also reserves the right to determine the number of students in each course. If an insufficient number of students enroll for a course, the School of Graduate and Continuing Studies reserves the right to cancel the course, change the time, or provide a different professor of any course.