Christ-centered liberal arts university in rural Ohio, affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene.
MVNU offers bachelor's and master's degrees through six schools, with five most popular majors being Business, Nursing, Education, Biology, and Engineering. The university serves both traditional undergraduates and non-traditional adult learners through its Graduate and Professional Studies (GPS) program, which enrolls nearly 800 students in fully online platforms. In 2024, MVNU launched its first fully accredited doctoral program in Nursing Practice. The student-to-faculty ratio is 16:1, with 68% of full-time professors holding terminal degrees.
The 327-acre rural campus features over 15 classroom and residence buildings, including the R.R. Hodges Chapel (center of music and performing arts), Hyson Campus Center (dining and student life), and Ariel Arena (2,100 seats for athletics, 3,000 for events). Downtown Mount Vernon facilities include Hunter Hall (nursing program and clinic), Buchwald Center (fine arts and graphic design), and the Stephen W. Nease Center (engineering). Annual traditions include Welcome Week, Oaktoberfest, SonFest (major Christian music concert), and Block Party. 72% of students live on campus; 63% female, 92% from Ohio.
Fall 2018 acceptance rate was 75.8% for undergraduate applicants. Students can apply as early as junior year of high school. The university welcomes both traditional on-campus students and online learners. Dual enrollment and college credit programs are available for high school students. Admissions counselors guide prospective students through the application and enrollment process.
In 2018–19, MVNU's men's basketball team returned to the NAIA Division II National Tournament for the first time since 2009, reaching the second round. The university produced NAIA All-Americans, including Mitchell Soviak, who won the NAIA Men's Outdoor Track and Field National Championship in shot put. Notable alumni include MLB pitchers Tim Belcher and Marty McLeary, and Ohio House member Tim Ginter.