The Story of Olivet Nazarene University
Established in 1907
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.”
Olivet at a Glance
Located in Bourbonnais, Illinois, Olivet’s facilities offer leading-edge technology and historic landmarks.
Degrees include:
- Associate
- Bachelor’s
- Master’s
- Doctoral
Acre Campus
Acres of beautiful, park-like grounds
Students
(2,525 undergraduate) students
Fields of Study
Leadership
Dr. Gregg Chenoweth, President
Gregg Chenoweth graduated from Olivet in 1990 with a bachelor’s degree in communication. He served as the president of Bethel University since 2013. Dr. Chenoweth has published works in nearly 30 media outlets and previously served as the vice president for academic affairs at Olivet.
5 Year University Priorities (PAVER)
Olivet Nazarene University has a rich tradition of faith and a strong desire to press forward into God’s plan for our future.
Solomon counseled, “Plans are established by seeking advice” (Prov. 20:18). Over the past few months, more than 600 people have met to discover ONU’s five-year priorities. In a show of unity, four different bodies representing more than 100 people endorsed this plan unanimously. Not just our plans blessed by God, but God’s plans for us.
“Plans are established by seeking advice”
Read All About It
Our very own award-winning Olivet The Magazine features articles from outstanding writers and first-person accounts from students, alumni and friends. Published quarterly, the magazine also includes inspirational words from university president.
We Believe
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.
International Church of the Nazarene
At Olivet Nazarene University, students experience the warmth, faith and strong sense of purpose that is characteristic of our parent denomination — the International Church of the Nazarene.
The Church of the Nazarene is a Protestant, Christian denomination in the Wesleyan-Holiness tradition. Organized in 1908, the Church of the Nazarene is now home to more than two million members worshiping in more than 26,000 local congregations in 156 world areas.
College Church of the Nazarene, founded in 1949, sits at the campus entrance where many community members choose to worship. More than 40 different denominations are represented among the student body, and students are encouraged to attend the church of their choice.
Where Your Future Begins
We Believe. You Belong Here. Discover why Olivet is a place where faith meets calling. Take the first step today.