Olivet College

Inclusive. Innovative. Impactful. Since 1844.

📍 Olivet, United States

🏆 #1569 in United States

Quick Facts about Olivet College

  • Type: Private Non-Profit
  • Tuition: $35,900 – $35,900/year

About Olivet College

Olivet College, now known as The University of Olivet, is a private Christian institution in Olivet, Michigan, founded in 1844. It holds a significant place in American educational history as the second coeducational college or university in the United States, and the first to admit students regardless of race or gender. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and remains affiliated with the United Church of Christ and the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches.

Academics

The University of Olivet offers 35 bachelor's degree programs and master's degrees in Business Administration, Counseling, and Leadership. The teaching approach emphasizes a liberal arts education, focusing on intellectual, moral, and spiritual improvement. Popular undergraduate majors include Criminal Justice/Safety Studies, Psychology, Business Administration & Management, and Insurance. The university is organizing its programs into three mission-driven colleges starting August 2026: the College of Social Impact, Media, and the Arts; the College of Business and Leadership; and the College of Science, Health, and Human Advancement, to enhance interdisciplinary opportunities.

International Students

While specific diversity statistics for international students are not prominently featured, The University of Olivet aims to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all students. The Multiethnic Student Services (MSS) office provides support for students from diverse cultural backgrounds, including international students, offering services like visa guidance and cultural adjustment workshops. The university also hosts cultural celebrations and heritage months to honor traditions from around the globe. The Office of Student Engagement promotes an inclusive community experience and helps students become socially just leaders.

Campus & Location

The University of Olivet is located in the small, rural town of Olivet, Michigan, offering a close-knit community atmosphere. The campus features historic buildings, a music conservatory, an astronomical observatory, and the 60-acre Kirkelldel Biological Preserve. While public transportation within Olivet is limited, the city's small size makes it easy to navigate by car, and it is conveniently located about 30 miles southwest of Lansing, with Kalamazoo also nearby. Local attractions include BlockHouse for dining and gaming, various local shops, and Cornwell's Turkeyville, a restaurant and entertainment venue about 15 minutes away.

Career Outcomes

The University of Olivet demonstrates strong career outcomes for its graduates, with reported employment rates exceeding national averages. The Career and Leadership Development Center provides extensive resources, including career counseling, workshops, and access to Handshake, an online platform for job and internship postings. The "Comet2Comet" program connects students with alumni for mentorship, networking, and job opportunities. Graduates have found employment and internships at notable companies such as Cargill, Caterpillar, Microsoft, and in various sectors including the NFL and NBA.

Information for International Students at Olivet College

Olivet College in Olivet, United States welcomes international students.

  • No visa support offered
  • No on-campus work
  • Student housing available

Admissions Requirements for Olivet College

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Olivet College:

  • Selectivity: Open (60%+)

Programs at Olivet College (21 programs)

Olivet College offers 21 programs across Bachelor levels.

Bachelor Programs (21)

  • Art (BA) — 48 months · English
    Students explore various artistic mediums and techniques, developing creative expression and critical thinking skills through studio practice and art history.
    Field: Arts and Humanities
    Career outcomes: Artist, Graphic Designer, Art Educator
  • Biology (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
    This program provides a comprehensive understanding of living organisms, their structures, functions, and interactions, with opportunities for laboratory and field research.
    Field: Natural Sciences
    Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Assistant, Healthcare Professional
  • Accounting (BA) — 48 months · English
    This program prepares students for careers in accounting, auditing, and financial management, covering principles of financial reporting, taxation, and business law.
    Field: Business
    Career outcomes: Accountant, Auditor, Financial Analyst
  • Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
    This program focuses on the theoretical foundations of information and computation, and their practical implementation in computer systems and software development.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Analyst, Web Developer
  • History (BA) — 48 months · English
    Students analyze past events, societies, and cultures, developing critical thinking, research, and interpretive skills essential for understanding the present.
    Field: Arts and Humanities
    Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Museum Curator
  • Journalism (BA) — 48 months · English
    Students learn to gather, write, and report news across various platforms, adhering to ethical standards and journalistic principles.
    Field: Arts and Humanities
    Career outcomes: Journalist, Reporter, Content Creator
  • Criminal Justice (BA) — 48 months · English
    Students examine the causes of crime, the functions of law enforcement, courts, and corrections, and the social impact of the criminal justice system.
    Field: Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: Police Officer, Probation Officer, Corrections Officer
  • Business Administration (BA) — 48 months · English
    Students gain foundational knowledge in business principles, management, marketing, and finance, preparing them for leadership roles in various industries.
    Field: Business
    Career outcomes: Business Manager, Entrepreneur, Marketing Specialist
  • Exercise Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
    This program focuses on the scientific study of human movement, physical activity, and its impact on health, performance, and disease prevention.
    Field: Health Sciences
    Career outcomes: Personal Trainer, Exercise Physiologist, Sports Coach
  • Communication (BA) — 48 months · English
    Students develop strong oral, written, and visual communication skills, learning to analyze and create effective messages for diverse audiences and media.
    Field: Arts and Humanities
    Career outcomes: Public Relations Specialist, Journalist, Marketing Communicator
  • Education (BA) — 48 months · English
    This program prepares future educators with pedagogical theories, classroom management techniques, and subject-specific knowledge for teaching at various levels.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: Teacher, Educational Administrator, Curriculum Developer
  • Nursing (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
    This program prepares students for a career as a registered nurse, providing comprehensive knowledge and clinical skills in patient care, health promotion, and disease prevention.
    Field: Health Sciences
    Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Healthcare Administrator
  • English (BA) — 48 months · English
    Students engage with literature, critical theory, and various forms of writing, enhancing their analytical, interpretive, and communication skills.
    Field: Arts and Humanities
    Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Journalist
  • Religious Studies (BA) — 48 months · English
    This program examines diverse religious traditions, beliefs, practices, and their cultural and historical impact, fostering interdisciplinary understanding.
    Field: Arts and Humanities
    Career outcomes: Religious Educator, Community Organizer, Researcher
  • Insurance and Risk Management (BA) — 48 months · English
    This program prepares students for careers in the insurance industry, covering risk assessment, policy development, claims management, and financial planning.
    Field: Business
    Career outcomes: Insurance Agent, Risk Manager, Underwriter
  • Philosophy (BA) — 48 months · English
    Students engage with fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language, developing critical thinking and analytical skills.
    Field: Arts and Humanities
    Career outcomes: Philosopher, Ethicist, Analyst
  • Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English
    Students study the human mind and behavior, exploring topics such as cognition, emotion, development, social interactions, and mental health.
    Field: Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: Psychologist (with further study), Counselor, Social Worker
  • Sports Management (BA) — 48 months · English
    This program combines business principles with the unique aspects of the sports industry, preparing students for roles in sports marketing, event management, and administration.
    Field: Business
    Career outcomes: Sports Marketing Manager, Athletic Director, Event Coordinator
  • Philosophy (BA) — 48 months · English
    Students engage with fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language, developing critical thinking and analytical skills.
    Field: Arts and Humanities
    Career outcomes: Philosopher, Ethicist, Analyst
  • Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English
    Students study the human mind and behavior, exploring topics such as cognition, emotion, development, social interactions, and mental health.
    Field: Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: Psychologist (with further study), Counselor, Social Worker
  • Sports Management (BA) — 48 months · English
    This program combines business principles with the unique aspects of the sports industry, preparing students for roles in sports marketing, event management, and administration.
    Field: Business
    Career outcomes: Sports Marketing Manager, Athletic Director, Event Coordinator

Scholarships & Tuition at Olivet College

Annual tuition for international students: $35,900 – $35,900/year

Visit the university's financial aid page for the latest scholarship information.

Rankings of Olivet College

  • National Ranking: #1569 in United States
  • Ranking tier: Research University
  • Research output: Low

Campus & Facilities at Olivet College

  • Student housing available
  • No sports facilities
  • No disability support info

Key Highlights

  • Pioneering inclusive education
  • First to admit all races
  • Strong liberal arts focus
  • New colleges for interdisciplinary study
  • Supports diverse student body

Notable Alumni

  • Spencer Abraham
  • Dick Jauron
  • Charles Martin
  • John Koncak
  • Adeola Fayehun

Frequently Asked Questions about Olivet College

What is Olivet College?

Olivet College is a private non-profit university located in Olivet, United States. .

How much does it cost to study at Olivet College?

Tuition fees at Olivet College for international students range from $35,900 – $35,900/year.

What are the admission requirements for Olivet College?

Selectivity: Open (60%+).

How many programs does Olivet College offer?

Olivet College offers 21 programs: 21 Bachelor's, 0 Master's, and 0 PhD programs across various fields of study.

What is Olivet College ranked?

#1569 in United States.

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