The University of Olivet

What is the history of The University of Olivet?

The University of Olivet is a private institution in Olivet, Michigan, founded in 1844 as Olivet College. Its founders, who came from a Congregationalist religious tradition, established the college with a commitment to educating people regardless of gender or race - an important part of its historical identity.

The institution adopted the name The University of Olivet in 2023. Applicants looking through older catalogs, athletic records or financial-aid information may therefore encounter the Olivet College name. The name change does not mean that every historical policy or program remains in effect; students should use the catalog for their intended entry year when checking degree requirements.

What are the faculties and departments at The University of Olivet?

The University of Olivet offers undergraduate study across the liberal arts, sciences and professional fields, along with graduate-level study. Its academic offerings include subjects such as biology, psychology, criminal justice, business, accounting, insurance, computer and information sciences, and the arts.

For applicants, the distinction between a subject and a credential matters. A field appearing in historical federal program records does not establish that a particular major, concentration or degree is open to new students today. Check the current academic catalog for the exact credential, required courses and delivery format. Students considering nursing or another regulated profession should also check the program's current approval status and the licensing rules in the state where they intend to work.

What is the location of The University of Olivet?

The university's main campus is in Olivet, a small community in south-central Michigan. Its setting is substantially different from that of an urban campus: students who want access to off-campus shopping, employment or appointments should plan for the transportation those trips require.

Students can bring a car as first-year students, according to institutional information. Capital Region International Airport, in the Lansing area, is a regional air-travel option, but students should account for ground transportation between the airport and Olivet. Before committing to commute, compare the trip at the times classes and campus activities actually meet.

What is the mission and vision of The University of Olivet?

The University of Olivet describes its educational purpose in terms of access, inclusion and preparing students to contribute to their communities. That stated purpose reflects the institution's founding commitment to educating people who were often excluded from higher education in the nineteenth century.

The university has historical ties to the Congregationalist tradition and the United Church of Christ. Applicants interested in how its philosophy shapes present-day study can look at general-education requirements, service activities and campus policies rather than assuming that a historical affiliation determines each student's experience.