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College of Arts & Sciences

At Olivet Nazarene University students learn about the exciting learning opportunities in the arts and sciences. Scholarship and mentorship combine for a complete academic experience. In a challenging academic environment, with encouragement to explore your personal interests, you’ll find a place to become the student and find the success you are meant to have. The College of Arts and Sciences is possibly the most diverse college on campus — offering areas of study that range from language, theatre and art, to chemistry, math and political science.

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Learn why Olivet’s dedication to faith and integrity have earned its rank as Illinois's number one Christian university.

Campus Visit

We offer several different ways for you to visit our beautiful campus! Whether you visit in person or online, choose a personalized visit or energetic event day, we want to show you all that Olivet has to offer.

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Apply to Olivet

It all starts here! We accept applications on a rolling basis throughout the year. All completed applications receive equal consideration.

Art and Digital Media

The Department of Art and Digital Media at Olivet Nazarene University endeavors to provide a rigorous visual arts education that inspires and equips students to become lifelong practitioners of the visual arts.

Behavioral Sciences

In studying behavioral sciences, Olivet students focus on growing in their awareness and understanding of human behavior, including its causes and consequences. They have opportunities to use scientific research methods while measuring human behavior and obtaining data.

Communication

Communication is an art and a science. Developing communication skills is vitally important for students as they seek to live in service to others. Effective communicators have the opportunity to shape individuals and society.

English

At Olivet, students explore all aspects of language arts. Olivet’s focus is to teach students to communicate effectively, to interact critically with a wide range of texts and to apply these skills in their lives of service to God and humanity.

History and Political Science

The History and Political Science Department pursues the integration of a biblically-based philosophy of history and politics with the best of current scholarship.

Modern Languages

At Olivet, modern language students explore and experience reading, writing, speaking, listening, linguistics and visual literacy. Students prepare to be effective communicators by immersing themselves in speaking and writing. They also study and experience a variety of cultures.

School of Music

The School of Music at Olivet offers limitless opportunities for students to hone their musical craft. From worship services to the concert hall, you’ll find music in every corner of the campus.

School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)

The Olivet Nazarene University Martin D. Walker School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics prepares young professionals for careers with a focus on innovation and improving the lives of others. Excellent facilities, experienced faculty and real-world experience give students the best possible start for their careers. These world-class programs send graduates to work in top companies around the globe.

Dr. Kent Olney | Dean, College of Arts & Sciences

An ordained minister in the Church of the Nazarene, Dr. Kent Olney served as a pastor and professor at a state university in Oregon for several years. In 1995, he and his family joined the Olivet family. Dr. Olney often speaks at churches and conferences, sharing his passion for strengthening families, helping young couples develop healthy relationships and applying biblical principles to marriage and family life.

College of Arts & Sciences Faculty

Scholarly Pursuits

Olivet’s Honors Program encourages and nurtures academically gifted students, helping them to believe in their possibilities, preparing them to become the Christian scholars and servant leaders our world needs.

Practical Experience

God’s world is to be explored and appreciated. As an Olivet student, you have many opportunities to work and serve in the local community and across the globe. In the process, you become a global citizen who appreciates all people and cultures.

Clubs and Organizations

College of Arts and Sciences Alumni have been seen at:

Take The Next Step

Apply Today

Ready to take the next step? 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!

Schedule a Visit

Excited to experience more? We’d love to plan a personalized visit just for you. Click below and we’ll schedule a time for you to travel to Olivet, take a campus tour, meet your admissions counselor and visit with a professor.

Schedule your Visit

Visit Online

Explore campus with an online tour and set up a virtual meeting with your admissions counselor. Of course, you will want to come to campus as soon as possible, but our online visit should help you in the meantime.

Begin Online Visit