Admissions Policies - GCS

Olivet Nazarene University carefully assesses applicants for the various program offerings on the basis of evidence provided in all application materials.  Therefore, while a personal interview is not required for most programs, application materials submitted must be prepared thoroughly, thoughtfully, and professionally for full consideration.  Applications will be processed upon receipt of all required materials.

General Admission Requirements - GCS

To be admitted into an GCS program at Olivet Nazarene University, an applicant must meet the following general prerequisites:

1. Submit a completed Olivet Nazarene University application form (online.olivet.edu).
2. Demonstrate moral character consistent with attendance at a Christian university.
3. Possess ability and discipline to pursue rigorous college-level studies or graduate level studies.
4. For bachelor’s degree and doctoral program, submit an official transcript from all colleges and universities previously attended.  For master’s degree programs, submit an official transcript for the completed bachelor’s degree program, as well as all transcripts for all master’s-level course work. Official transcripts must be received no later than 30 days after the start of a program.
   * Official Transcript: A transcript with the registrar’s seal from the institution granting credit sent directly to Olivet Nazarene University, Graduate and Continuing Studies, One University Avenue, Bourbonnais, IL 60914-2345.

For all programs in the School of Theology and Christian Ministry, materials should be sent to: Director of Graduate Programs; ONU School of Theology and Christian Ministry; One University Avenue Box 6048; Bourbonnais, IL 60914.

For students who have attended foreign universities, please provide an official U.S. evaluation report from an approved evaluator service organization.  The organization must be a member of NACES (National Association of Credential Evaluation Services). Please see NACES.org for approved organizations.

Please refer to the programs listed below for additional admission requirements. Special and probationary admission requirements are detailed later in this section of the catalog.

Admission to Bachelor of Science in Business - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the following applies:

1. If applicant has not attended college previously, one of the following forms of acceptable proof of high school graduation or GED completion must be submitted:
   1. Copy of official high school transcript
   2. Copy of official GED transcript
2. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 from all institutions previously attended.
3. Candidates may transfer up to 90 hours of credit from an accredited college or university.  Coursework must be college-level to be eligible for transfer.  Developmental, Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or pre-college level courses are not transferable.

Admission to Bachelor of Science in Leadership - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the following applies:

1. If applicant has not attended college previously, one of the following forms of acceptable proof of high school graduation or GED completion must be submitted:
   1. Copy of official high school transcript
   2. Copy of official GED transcript
2. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 from all institutions previously attended.
3. Candidates may transfer up to 90 hours of credit from an accredited college or university.  Coursework must be college-level to be eligible for transfer.  Developmental, Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or pre-college level courses are not transferable.

Admission to Bachelor of Applied Science in Business/Leadership - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the following applies:

1. If applicant has not attended college previously, one of the following forms of acceptable proof of high school graduation or GED completion must be submitted:
   1. Copy of official high school transcript
   2. Copy of official GED transcript
2. Applicant must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 from all institutions previously attended.
3. Applicant must provide transcript showing proof of a completed AAS degree from accredited college or university. Candidates may transfer up to 90 hours of previous credit; not more than 64 hours of applied credits will be accepted.

Admission to Bachelor of Science in Nursing - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Possess an associate degree in nursing from a regionally accredited institution or a diploma from a school for registered nurse education.
2. Submit a current, unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license in a geographical jurisdiction of the United States.
3. Have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75 from all credits transferred from institutions previously attended.
4. Submit a signed consent regarding criminal background and drug screening requirements.

Admission to RN-MSN (Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Nursing) - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Possess an associate degree in nursing from a regionally accredited institution or a diploma from a school for registered nurse education.
2. Submit a current, unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license in a geographical jurisdiction of the United States.
3. Have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75 from all credits transferred from institutions previously attended.
4. Submit a signed consent regarding criminal background and drug screening requirements.
5. Additional MSN Admission Requirements:
   1. Complete all BSN requirements satisfactorily.
   2. Submit evidence of having worked as an RN for at least 2,000 hours prior to matriculation in the MSN portion of the program.
   3. Have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 after completion of the BSN portion.

Admission to Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 (a 3.0 is recommended) from all credits transferred from institutions previously attended.
2. Successfully complete the HESI A2.  This entrance exam can be taken a total of three times.

3. If nursing courses were taken at Olivet or another school, the policy for admission/progression of the Department of Nursing will be followed.

4. Complete all required support courses with a grade of “C” or above.
5. Submit a signed consent regarding prerequisite, criminal background, and drug screening requirements.
6. Students will not be admitted into nursing if any of the following courses are taken more than twice at any university:  Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology, Pathophysiology, and Medical Terminology.  Students may not retake more than two science courses. Science courses eligible for transfer must have been taken within the last 10 years.

Admission to Bachelor of Science in Multidisciplinary Studies - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the following applies:

1. If applicant has not attended college previously, one of the following forms of acceptable proof of high school graduation or GED completion must be submitted:
   1. Copy of official high school transcript
   2. Copy of official GED transcript
2. Applicant must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 from all institutions previously attended.
3. Candidates may transfer up to 90 hours of credit from an accredited college or university.  Coursework must be college-level to be eligible for transfer.  Developmental, Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or pre-college level courses are not transferable.

Admission to Bachelor of Applied Science in Practical Ministries - GCS (Salvation Army Officers Only)

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must have earned a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 from all institutions previously attended.

Admission to Bachelor of Applied Science in Human Service Leadership - GCS (Salvation Army Officers Only)

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must have earned a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 from all institutions previously attended.

Admission to Master of Business Administration - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Provide proof of bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university.
2. Have an undergraduate grade point average of 2.5 or better (4.0 scale).
3. Have successfully completed (defined as a grade of C- or above) the following four undergraduate courses: accounting; microeconomics; finance; and statistics. NOTE: Applicants may be admitted on probation without undergraduate credit in the areas of statistics, accounting, finance, and economics. However, those applicants must take undergraduate online tutorial courses in the areas of deficiency.

Although the MBA programs are structured with flexibility to serve learners with baccalaureate degrees in business as well as those having degrees in other disciplines, those without the relevant academic background in business core areas are required to attain the appropriate prerequisite knowledge before attempting advanced work.

Admission to Master of Organizational Leadership - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Provide proof of bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university.
2. Have an undergraduate grade point average of 2.5 or better (4.0 scale).

Admission to Master of Arts in Education: Curriculum & Instruction - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Submit a copy of a current teaching license.
2. Submit an official transcript providing proof of a bachelor’s degree in education, or master’s degree in teaching, from a regionally accredited college or university and clearly indicating a minimum GPA of 2.5.  Those who have completed an alternative program leading to licensure should submit evidence of completion of that program as well as their bachelor’s degree transcripts indicating a minimum GPA of 2.5
3. Submit a written School Administrator Agreement verifying current teaching status and consent to host the practicums/research projects/clinical experience-creative project in the school.

Admission to Master of Arts in Education: Educational Leadership - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Submit a copy of a current teaching license.
2. Submit an official transcript providing proof of a bachelor’s degree in education, or master’s degree in teaching, from a regionally accredited college or university and clearly indicating a minimum GPA of 2.5.  Those who have completed an alternative program leading to licensure should submit evidence of completion of that program as well as their bachelor’s degree transcripts indicating a minimum GPA of 2.5
3. Submit a written School Administrator Agreement verifying current teaching status and consent to host the practicums/research projects/clinical experience-creative project in the school.

Admission to Master of Arts in Education: Reading Specialist - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Submit a copy of a current teaching license.
2. Submit an official transcript providing proof of a bachelor’s degree in education, or master’s degree in teaching, from a regionally accredited college or university.  Those who have completed an alternative program leading to licensure should submit evidence of completion of that program as well as their bachelor’s degree transcripts indicating a minimum GPA of 2.5.
3. Submit a written School Administrator Agreement verifying current teaching status, at least two years of consecutive teaching, and consent to host the practicums in the school. (Full master’s program only) 
4. Verification that a certified Reading Specialist, with a Professional Educator License (PEL) and three years of experience as a licensed reading specialist, to serve as a mentor during all clinical experiences, is employed in the building/district.

Admission to English Language Learner Endorsement - GCS

In addition to the General Admission Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Submit a copy of a current teaching license.
2. Submit an official transcript providing proof of a bachelor’s degree in education, or master’s degree in teaching from a regionally accredited college or university clearly indicating a minimum GPA of 2.5.
3. Submit a written School Administrator Agreement verifying current teaching status, and consent to host the practicum/research projects/clinical experience-creative project in the school.

Admission to English as a Second Language and/or Bilingual Education Endorsement - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Provide a copy of a valid Illinois teaching license.
2. Submit an official transcript providing proof of a bachelor’s degree in education, or master’s degree in teaching, from a regionally accredited college or university.  Those who have completed an alternative program leading to licensure should submit evidence of completion of that program as well as their bachelor’s degree transcripts indicating a minimum GPA of 2.5.
3. Submit an Administrative Agreement letter signed by the principal consenting to host practicum at their school.

Admission to Ethical Building Leadership - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Submit a copy of a current teaching license.
2. Submit an official copy of an undergraduate degree transcript from a regionally accredited college or university clearly indicating a minimum GPA of 2.5. For those applicants only interested in the core program of study, a master’s degree in education from a college or university accredited by a regional accrediting body must be verified on official transcripts sent directly to Olivet Nazarene University.
3. Submit a written School Administrator Agreement verifying current employment in or access to a P-12 school setting, at least two years of consecutive teaching or school counseling, and consent to host the practicums/research projects/clinical experience-creative project in the school. The agreement should also provide consent to mentor (or provide a mentor) for the clinical experiences of the program.
4. Submit a letter of recommendation from a school leader (superintendent, principal, or assistant principal) who are qualified to judge the applicant’s knowledge, skills, and dispositions in relation to pursuing a P-12 Building Level Administrator license.

Admission to Learning Behavior Specialist (LBS1) Endorsement - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Submit a copy of a current teaching license.
2. Submit an official transcript providing proof of a bachelor’s degree in education, or master’s degree in teaching, from a regionally accredited college or university, clearly indicating a minimum GPA of 2.5.
3. Submit a written School Administrator Agreement verifying current employment in or access to a P-12 school setting and consent to host the clinical experience in the school. The clinical experience school setting must be within the grade levels of the candidate’s license.

Admission to Safety and Driver Education Endorsement Program - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must provide a valid Illinois driver’s license, and a School Administrator Agreement letter.

Admission to Teacher Leader Endorsement Program - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Provide proof of a bachelor’s and/or master’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Master’s degree required if a student is only enrolling in the endorsement program and does not intend to complete a Curriculum & Instruction master’s degree at ONU.
   1. Bachelor’s degree required if completing a Curriculum & Instruction master’s degree and endorsement program.
   2. Master’s degree required if a student is only enrolling in the endorsement program and does not intend to complete a Curriculum & Instruction master’s degree at ONU.
2. Submit a copy of a current and valid Illinois teaching license.
3. Submit a letter of recommendation from the principal which also confirms a minimum of two years of teaching experience, and agrees to host the clinical experience/practicum within the school/district.

Admission to Master of Arts, Biblical Studies - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Possess a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a grade point average of 3.0 or better (4.0 scale).
2. Satisfy these curricular prerequisites for admission.
   1. Biblical Hermaneutics (3 hours)
   2. Old Testament Introduction (3 hours)
   3. New Testament Introduction (3 hours)
   4. Biblical Greek or Hebrew (8 hours)
   5. A systematic theology course (3 hours)
   6. A demonstrated ability to write well. Students whose undergraduate preparation does not meet these prerequisites may apply for conditional admission, if they satisfy the other requirements. Rules and deadlines for making up the deficiency will be decided on a case-by-case basis.
3. Demonstrate the ability to succeed as a graduate student in Olivet’s Master of Arts in Biblical Studies program, as evidenced by three recommendations. Two of these should be from people able to address the applicant’s academic ability and potential. The third should be personal and may address the applicant’s moral and spiritual character.

Admission to Master of Arts, Christian Ministry - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Possess a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a grade point average of 2.5 or better (4.0 scale).
2. Demonstrate the ability to succeed as a graduate student in Olivet’s Master of Arts in Christian Ministry program, as evidenced by three recommendations. One should be from a person able to speak about the applicant’s academic ability, one from a pastor or other person who can speak to the applicant’s Christian and moral life, and one that is personal. The personal recommendation may be a second academic reference or it may be from a person who has supervised the applicant in work or ministry. While this master’s degree, as a “gateway” program, has no specific undergraduate prerequisites in theology, biblical studies, or ministry, an education that emphasizes critical thinking and clear expository writing and that provides a general knowledge of Western Culture as well as at least a brief acquaintance with one other culture would be especially appropriate. Students with an undergraduate background in specific areas in the curriculum will be placed in advanced courses in those areas.

Admission to Master of Arts, Family Ministry - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Possess a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a grade point average of 2.7 or better (4.0 scale).
2. Satisfy these curricular prerequisites for admission:
   1. Biblical Hermeneutics
   2. Introduction to Old & New Testament
   3. Christian Theology I & II
   4. Wesleyan Holiness Theology
   5. Intro to Philosophy
   6. World Religions

Students whose undergraduate preparation is deficient in these areas may apply for conditional admission, if they satisfy the other requirements. Rules and deadlines for making up the deficiency will be decided on a case-by-case basis.

3. Demonstrate the ability to succeed as a graduate student in Olivet’s Master of Arts in Family Ministry program, as evidenced by three recommendations. One should be from a person able to speak about the applicant’s academic ability and one from a pastor or other person who can speak to the applicant’s Christian and moral life. The third, a personal reference, may be another academic reference or a reference from a work or ministry supervisor. If the person making the pastoral reference is not also a supervisor, then a reference from a supervisor is especially appropriate.

Admission to Master of Arts, Pastoral Leadership - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Be currently serving in a full-time, part-time, volunteer, staff, or lead ministry role that is recognized by the local congregation.
2. Possess a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a grade point average of 3.0 or better (4.0 scale).
3. Have successfully completed an undergraduate degree in ministry preparation. The program assumes basic competency in Bible, theology, and ministry practices. Students who do not have an undergraduate ministry degree may submit transcripts for evaluation to determine whether they may be considered a candidate for this program.
4. Demonstrate the ability to succeed as a graduate student in Olivet’s Master of Arts in Pastoral Leadership program, as evidenced by three recommendations. One should be from a person able to comment knowledgeably on the applicant’s academic ability and one from a pastor or other person who can speak to the applicant’s Christian and moral life. The third may be a reference from a ministry supervisor. For the student already in ministry, the pastor and the ministry supervisor will be the same person, which is acceptable as long as the three recommendations cover three areas: academic, personal spiritual and ethical, and institutional/ministerial.
5. Demonstrate the ability and discipline necessary to pursue graduate level studies while engaging in and reflecting upon the actual practice of Christian ministry.

Admission to Master of Arts, Pastoral Ministry - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Possess a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a grade point average of 2.7 or better (4.0 scale).
2. Satisfy these curricular prerequisites for admission:
   1. Biblical Hermeneutics
   2. Introduction to Old & New Testament
   3. Christian Theology I & II
   4. Wesleyan Holiness Theology
   5. Intro to Philosophy
   6. World Religions

Students whose undergraduate preparation is deficient in these areas may apply for conditional admission, if they satisfy the other requirements. Rules and deadlines for making up the deficiency will be decided on a case-by-case basis.

3. Demonstrate the ability to succeed as a graduate student in Olivet’s Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry program, as evidenced by three recommendations. One should be from a person able to speak about the applicant’s academic ability and one from a pastor or other person who can speak to the applicant’s Christian and moral life. The third, a personal reference, may be another academic reference or a reference from a work or ministry supervisor. If the person making the pastoral reference is not also a supervisor, then a reference from a supervisor is especially appropriate.

Admission to Master of Arts, Religion - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Possess a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a grade point average of 2.7 or better (4.0 scale).
2. Satisfy these curricular prerequisites for admission:
   1. Biblical Hermeneutics
   2. Introduction to Old & New Testament
   3. Christian Theology I & II
   4. Wesleyan Holiness Theology
   5. Intro to Philosophy
   6. World Religions

Students whose undergraduate preparation in religion is deficient may apply for conditional admission, if they satisfy the other requirements.  Rules and deadlines for making up the deficiency will be decided on a case-by-case basis.

3. Demonstrate the ability to succeed as a graduate student in Olivet’s Master of Arts in Religion program, as evidenced by three recommendations. One should be from a person able to comment knowledgeably on the applicant’s academic ability and one from a pastor or other person who can speak to the applicant’s Christian and moral life. The third may be another academic reference. Or it may be a reference from a work or ministry supervisor. If the person making the pastoral reference is not also a supervisor, then a reference from a supervisor is especially appropriate.

Admission to Master of Ministry - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Possess a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a grade point average of 2.5 or better (4.0 scale).
2. Have successfully completed a minimum of 15 undergraduate hours in religion, Bible, or theology. Students whose undergraduate preparation in religion is deficient may apply for conditional admission, if they satisfy the other requirements. Rules and deadlines for making up the deficiency will be decided on a case-by-case basis.
3. Demonstrate the ability to succeed in the graduate-level Master of Ministry program, as evidenced by two or three recommendations – one from a pastor or other spiritual adviser and one from a person who can speak to the applicant’s academic capacity. If pastor or spiritual adviser is different from the student’s supervisor in ministry, the student is encouraged to include a third recommendation from a ministry supervisor such as, in the case of a Nazarene applicant, the District Superintendent.
4. Be actively involved in church ministry.

Note: The Master of Ministry/Spanish program requires fluency in the Spanish language in addition to the above.

Admission to Master of Divinity - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Possess a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a grade point average of 2.7 or better (4.0 scale).  Students whose undergraduate preparation is deficient in these areas may apply for conditional admission, if they satisfy the other requirements.
2. Demonstrate the ability to succeed as a graduate student in Olivet’s Master of Divinity program, as evidenced by three recommendations. One should be from a person able to speak about the applicant’s academic ability and one from a pastor or other person who can speak to the applicant’s Christian and moral life. The third, a personal reference, may be another academic reference or a reference from a work or ministry supervisor. If the person making the pastoral reference is not also a supervisor, then a reference from a supervisor is especially appropriate.

Admission to Master of Arts, Urban Ministry - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Possess a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a grade point average of 2.7 or better (4.0 scale).
2. Satisfy these curricular prerequisites for admission:
   1. Biblical Hermeneutics
   2. Introduction to Old & New Testament
   3. Christian Theology I & II
   4. Wesleyan Holiness Theology
   5. Intro to Philosophy
   6. World Religions

Students whose undergraduate preparation in religion is deficient may apply for conditional admission, if they satisfy the other requirements. Rules and deadlines for making up the deficiency will be decided on a case-by-case basis

3. Demonstrate the ability to succeed as a graduate student in Olivet’s M.A. in Urban Ministry program, as evidenced by three recommendations. One should be from a person able to speak about the applicant’s academic ability, one from a pastor or other person who can speak to the applicant’s Christian life, and one that is personal. The personal recommendation may be a second academic reference, or it may be a reference from a work or ministry supervisor. If the person making the pastoral reference is not also a supervisor, then a reference from a supervisor is especially appropriate.

Admission to Master of Science in Nursing - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Complete an application.
2. Submit an official transcript from a regionally accredited college or university showing an earned Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.
3. Submit transcripts from any accredited institutions attended, where pre-requisites for a nursing program and BSN nursing courses were completed, and any completed nursing graduate coursework.
4. Have attained a BSN undergraduate grade-point average of 3.0 or better (4.0 scale).*
5. Submit a current, unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license in a geographical jurisdiction of the United States.*
6. Have successfully completed (defined as a grade of C or above) an approved college-level statistics course. An official transcript for same should be submitted.
7. Submit a signed consent regarding criminal background and drug screening requirements.
8. Submit evidence of having worked as an RN for at least 2,000 hours prior to starting the MSN program.*
9. Students may not be admitted to the Olivet MSN program who have been dismissed from another MSN program.

*Students who do not meet these criteria, please speak with an Admissions Counselor about a possible conditional admission.

Admission to Post-MSN Certificate Tracks - GCS

In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, the applicant must:

1. Complete an application.
2. Submit an official transcript from a regionally accredited college or university showing an earned Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree.
3. Have attained an MSN GPA of 3.0 or better (4.0 scale).*
4. Submit current, unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license in a geographical jurisdiction of the United States.*
5. Have successfully completed (defined as a grade of B- or above) within the last five years Advanced Pathophysiology, Advanced Pharmacology, Advanced Health Assessment (only FNP & Education tracks). Students who have not completed these courses can still be conditionally admitted by enrolling in our single-course enrollment option to complete this requirement.
6. Submit a signed consent regarding criminal background and drug screening requirements.
7. Submit evidence of having worked as an RN for at least 2,000 hours prior to starting the chosen master’s or post-master’s tracks.*

*Students who do not meet these criteria, please speak with an Admissions Counselor about a possible conditional admission.

Admission to Doctor of Education - GCS

Olivet Nazarene University carefully assesses the Ed.D Program applicants based on evidence provided in all application materials. In addition to the General Admissions Requirements, to be admitted into the Ed.D Program, an applicant must meet these requirements:

1. A completed application.
2. An earned master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution (or its equivalency).
3. Official transcripts of all graduate credits from previously attended colleges/universities.
4. Attained a graduate level GPA of 3.25.
5. A résumé or curriculum vitae which demonstrates professional experiences reflecting readiness to enter a doctoral program.
6. Writing sample.
7. Submission of a letter of intent (500-700 words)
   1. Include description of the status of your current leadership in a professional field
   2. Describe an issue or challenge you are facing in your professional organization or field you would like to research or solve.
   3. Explain how the Doctor of Education in Ethical Leadership would contribute to your professional goals and the transformation of cultures and society.

Note: Candidates should save a copy of the Letter of Intent for the first course.

International Student Admissions Policy - GCS

Online Programs

All applicants to fully online Graduate and Continuing Studies programs who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States must comply with the admission requirements as listed below.

You are considered international even if you plan on studying strictly online from your home country; however, since you will not be entering the United States, you will not require an F-1 visa or evidence of financial resources. International students studying online will still be required to complete the application, provide transcript evaluations and TOEFL test scores if applicable

1. The prospective student must complete and return a written international student application to Graduate and Continuing Studies. When all required information is received, the application file is evaluated and an admission decision is made. The applicant is notified, and instructions for further action are sent to the applicant.
2. The prospective student must have all official transcripts sent directly from each school attended to satisfy the University that the applicant has successfully completed a course of study equivalent to that required of a US-educated applicant to the same program. All records submitted must be official transcripts certified by the appropriate school official and should list the subject taken, grades earned, or examination results in each subject, as well as all certificates or diplomas. These documents must be accompanied by an official English translation and an “Educational Credential Evaluators Report” secured at the applicant’s expense if the transcripts are from a school outside the U.S. All records must be submitted at least six months prior to the expected enrollment date.
3. The University requires that the prospective student demonstrate possession of adequate English language proficiency to pursue a course of study on a full-time basis. A minimum score of 500 on the paper-based test, 173 on the computer-based test, or 61 on the internet-based test is required on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) of all new undergraduate international students. A minimum score of 550 on the paper-based test, 213 on the computer-based test, or 79 on the internet-based test is required for graduate international students. If English was the medium of instruction throughout formal education, a TOEFL score may not be needed. Students with more than 48 academic semester units from U.S. colleges/universities taken just prior to attending Olivet may be able to waive their TOEFL requirement for admission.
4. Arrangements will be made through Student Financial Services for payment of courses taken at ONU.

U.S. Citizen Language Requirement

All Graduate and Continuing Studies course content and instruction is in English and offered at an accelerated pace. The University requires that the prospective student possess adequate English language proficiency to pursue a course of study at the respective bachelor or master academic level.  GCS does not provide students with academic support or resources specific to deficiencies in English language proficiencies.

Conditional Admission, Undergraduate Programs (exclude pre-licensure BSN program) - GCS

If a student has lower than a 2.0 cumulative GPA for business or no lower than 2.5 cumulative GPA for nursing, and has completed required general education courses (nursing only), they may present a petition, with documentation, to be considered for conditional admission.  The following documentary evidence is required in order to be considered for conditional admission.

REQUIRED

1. Submit a letter of petition to  Graduate and Continuing Studies Admissions that includes:
   1. Explanation of why you are petitioning to continue your education.  Include a compelling case for admission to the program including your plans, goals, and resources.
   2. A rationale for conditional admission that demonstrates evidence of personal or professional growth in the years since your previous education experience.
   3. A description of development, professional engagement, leadership opportunities, continuing education, current certifications, and/or other evidence of applicable growth.  Attach all applicable materials (e. g. certificates of completion, etc.)
2. Submit current resume
3. Submit two letters of recommendation (one current/recent supervisor and one Bachelor’s (or higher) prepared individual who is able to speak to the applicant’s ability to be successful in a baccalaureate degree program).
4. Submit transcripts from all colleges and universities previously attended

Upon completion and submission of the above items, the applicant’s petition and supporting documents will be reviewed by the Dean.  If the petition is accepted, the applicant will be conditionally admitted to the University and will follow this process:

1. The student will be enrolled in the first two courses of the program. Note: Conditional admittance may require tutoring, academic coaching, additional course work and/or part-time schedule.
2. The student must meet all required steps outlined by the Academic Records team to meet minimum GPA requirement to be considered fully admitted into the program.  The student may retake one course to improve the GPA.
3. Once the student achieves the necessary GPA, they will be considered fully admitted at that time.
4. Once fully admitted, the student must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 (business) or 2.75 (nursing).  Students who fail to maintain the minimum GPA in their program will be put on academic probation.
5. If at any time a student is academically withdrawn from the program, the student may only reapply by petition to the Program Director and Dean(s) with evidence of meeting the minimum required GPA from courses taken at an accredited institution of higher education other than Olivet.

Conditional Admission, Graduate Programs - GCS

1.           GPA

A student applying for a graduate program who does not meet the specific program admission requirements, but has no lower than a 2.0 cumulative Baccalaureate GPA for business and education or 2.5 cumulative Baccalaureate GPA for nursing may present a petition, with documentation, to be considered for conditional admission. The following additional documentary evidence is required in order to be considered for conditional admission:

REQUIRED:

1. Submit a letter of petition to Graduate and Continuing Studies Admissions that includes:
   1. Explanation of why you are petitioning to continue your education.  Include compelling case for admission to the program including your plans, goals, and resources.
   2. A rationale for conditional admission that demonstrates evidence of personal or professional growth in years since your previous degree or education experience.
   3. A description of development, professional engagement, leadership opportunities, continuing education, current certifications and/or other evidence of applicable growth since completion of the bachelor’s degree. Attach all applicable materials (e.g. certificates of completion, etc.).
2. Submit a current résumé.
3. Submit two letters of recommendations (one current/recent supervisor and one Master’s prepared individual who is able to speak to the applicant’s ability to be successful in a graduate program).
4. Submit the remainder of transcripts from all colleges and universities previously attended.

Upon completion and submission of the above items, the applicant’s petition and supporting documents will be reviewed by the Dean. If the petition is accepted, the applicant will be conditionally admitted to the University.

1. If the student is conditionally admitted, he/she will be enrolled in the first two courses of the program. Note: Conditional admittance may require tutoring, academic coaching, additional course work, and/or a part-time schedule.
2. The student must meet all required steps, receive a B- or better in both of the first two courses, and have a combined GPA of 3.0 for these two courses, to be considered fully admitted into the program. If a grade lower than B- is received in either course, the student may retake one course in which he/she received a C grade (below a B-) to raise their GPA to a 3.0 or higher.  If they fail to raise the grade to a 3.0 or higher, they will be academically withdrawn from the program.
3. If the applicant does not meet the requirements or does not achieve the necessary GPA of 3.0 or higher in the first two courses, the student will be academically withdrawn from the program. Once fully admitted, the student must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or better.
4. If at any time a student is academically withdrawn from the program, the student may only reapply by petition to the Program Director and Dean with evidence of meeting the minimum required GPA from courses taken at an accredited institution of higher education other than Olivet.

2.           Nursing Only - Work Requirement

Nursing students who fail to meet the 2000-hour work requirement prior to their planned start date may be conditionally admitted under the following circumstances, with approved documentation:

1. Those RNs with documentation of actively working full time may submit 1,500 hours of work experience prior to the start date. The documentation for the remaining 500 hours would be required before enrolling for NRSG 675 - Advanced Pharmacology I  - (FNP students), NRSG 621  (Education students), or NRSG 631  (Transformational Leadership students).
2. Those RNs with documentation of actively working part-time may submit 1,700 hours of work experience prior to cohort start date. The documentation for the remaining 300 hours would be required before enrolling for NRSG 675 - Advanced Pharmacology I . 

All documentation will be submitted to the student’s online advisor. If the required documentation does not meet or exceed the remaining required hours needed, the student will be withdrawn from the program until such hours are met.

III.         Nursing Only - Encumbered RN License

If there is an active discipline on the student’s RN license, prior to admission and the start of practicum, it will be determined if the student can proceed with admission or practicum. The student may be eligible to re-apply into the program after their RN license has been reinstated.

If an enrolled student receives disciplinary action on their RN license, at any time during the program, the student should notify the MSN/FNP Practicum Director. It will be determined by the MSN/FNP Program what the next steps are for the student, up to and including withdrawal from the program. The MSN/FNP Practicum Director will notify the practicum site. The student may be eligible to re-apply after their RN license is no longer encumbered. An evaluation of course schedule for program completion/graduation will be completed by the MSN/FNP Program on a case-by-case basis. Students will be required to fulfill current course requirements.

Conditional Admission, Doctor of Education Program

A candidate applying for the Doctor of Education Ethical Leadership (Ed.D.) program who does not meet the specific program admissions requirements may present a petition to the EDD Leadership Team Admissions Committee. The EDD Leadership Team Admissions Committee will:

1. Consider those with a 3.0 GPA or above;
2. Review the letter of intent and/or;
3. Reserve the right for a personal interview with the candidate;
4. Will approve or deny a candidate as fully admitted to the Ed.D program.

Admissions to Non-degree Seeking Students Taking Individual Courses or Certificate Programs

A student who does not plan to become a candidate for the bachelor or master’s degree in this institution, but who wishes to take individual coursework for undergraduate or graduate credit, or wishes to complete a Certificate Program* may do so by submitting a non-degree seeking application. There are no other admissions requirements.

Individual courses and certificate courses are offered to non-degree seeking students who have not been formally admitted to a program of study. Non-degree seeking students may take up to 9 credit hours as individual courses or may complete an entire Certificate Program*. The approved list of individual courses and certificate programs is available on the online.olivet.edu website. There is no limit to the number of general education courses and electives they may take. To continue in a degree program, they will need to apply for full admission to the program.

For approved Certificate Programs, all courses must be completed at GCS. No courses will transfer in towards these certificates.

*Policy is not applicable to Certificate Programs that have additional admissions requirements.

600-Level Certificate Courses Counting for Credit in the Master Degree Program

A major advantage of the GCS certificate programs and 600-level single course registration courses is that they enable students to count credits toward a master’s degree.

Note: A student must apply and be accepted into a degree program to take additional 600-level courses (more than 9 credits) from the degree major, however he or she may complete an entire certificate program for which they are enrolled.

Admission for College Seniors, Graduate Programs - GCS

A senior who is within the last year of completing the course requirements for the baccalaureate degree or another person who has not earned the baccalaureate degree and who (1) is of good moral character as evidenced by either pastor and friend or associate’s recommendations or a current undergraduate student at Olivet Nazarene University, and (2) is seemingly able to do graduate work as evidenced by transcripts, may, with the approval of Graduate and Continuing Studies, register for one graduate course per semester. To obtain regular graduate status after being granted the bachelor’s degree, the student must follow regular graduate admission procedures. Senior-graduate students may take courses to fill undergraduate needs, for certification, for enrichment, or for future use in the graduate program. However, graduate courses will not count for both undergraduate and graduate credit.