Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Acceptance rate
84.1%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$27,193
$37,587 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,359
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
55.7%
4-year; 6-year rate 68.0%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU) is a private Christian university located in Mount Vernon, Ohio. Established in 1968, the university is affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene and emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates faith and learning. The campus is known for its welcoming environment and strong community spirit, which is fostered through various student organizations, spiritual activities, and service opportunities. The university’s mission is to empower students to lead lives of integrity and service, and this commitment is reflected in its motto, “To Seek to Learn is to Seek to Serve.”
MVNU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong emphasis on liberal arts education, professional studies, and teacher education. The university is particularly known for its nursing and business programs, which are designed to equip students with the skills necessary for success in their respective fields. The faculty at MVNU is highly qualified and dedicated to providing personalized attention to students, ensuring a supportive learning environment. Beyond academics, MVNU boasts a vibrant campus life, including various athletic programs, cultural events, and community outreach initiatives that enhance the overall student experience while preparing graduates to make a positive impact in society.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Mount Vernon Nazarene University, a private institution, has shown significant trends in tuition, student retention, graduation rates, and gender ratios over the past decade. Notably, the tuition costs for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students have experienced a steep increase, rising from $15,850 in 2014 to $25,559 in 2024 for in-state students. This represents a staggering increase of approximately 61.7% over this period. Such rising costs may impact enrollment and accessibility for prospective students, reinforcing the ongoing national discourse about college affordability.
In terms of student retention, the data reveals a concerning decline. Retention rates hovered around 78-82% from 2015 to 2020 but dropped to approximately 70.3% in 2023. This decline could indicate challenges in maintaining student satisfaction and engagement, which is critical for long-term institutional success.
Graduation rates, however, have shown a more stable trend with a slight fluctuation. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates was approximately 54.9% in 2023, down from a peak of 57.3% in 2018. This shows a need for institutions to enhance support systems to ensure students can complete their degrees efficiently.
Gender ratios among undergraduates also merit attention, with female students consistently outnumbering male students. In 2023, the ratio was approximately 61.3% female to 38.7% male. This trend is reflective of broader patterns seen in higher education, where female enrollment has outpaced male enrollment in many institutions.
Overall, while Mount Vernon Nazarene University maintains a solid academic framework, it faces challenges concerning tuition affordability, student retention, and gender enrollment balance that need addressing to ensure a thriving educational environment.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Columbus, about 40 mi
- Nearest international airport
- John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), about 35 mi
- Also known as
- MVNU
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Church of the Nazarene
- President
- Carson D. Castleman (President)
- Phone
- 7403926868
- City
- Mount Vernon, Ohio
- Address
- 800 Martinsburg Rd, Mount Vernon, OH 43050-9500
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 76.5%, women 70.8%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Mount Vernon Nazarene University
The admission statistics for Mount Vernon Nazarene University over the years reveal intriguing trends and fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment numbers. The data indicates a general decline in the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants from 2009 to 2014, with the male acceptance rate dropping from approximately 77.1% to around 64.7%. This decline was particularly significant in 2014, which may correlate with broader economic factors or shifts in the university's admission policies aiming to strengthen its academic profile.
However, starting from 2015, there was a noticeable recovery in acceptance rates, peaking in 2022, where the acceptance rate for males reached an impressive 88%. This dramatic increase could suggest that Mount Vernon Nazarene University has adopted a more inclusive approach or has experienced a strong desire from applicants, possibly influenced by the institution's reputation or programs.
Enrollment figures also reflect these trends, with notable highs in 2011 and 2017, suggesting periods of increased interest in the university. The number of applicants denied admission peaked in 2014, indicating a more competitive selection process during that time. Conversely, the number of deferrals has shown a steady increase in recent years, particularly in 2022 and 2023, which could imply that more students are opting to postpone their college experience, perhaps due to ongoing uncertainties in the global landscape following the COVID-19 pandemic.
In conclusion, Mount Vernon Nazarene University's admission statistics present a tapestry of evolving trends, influenced by internal and external factors. As the institution navigates these changes, its ability to adapt to the shifting educational landscape will be crucial for attracting and retaining prospective students.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 5% submitted SAT, 29% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores at Mount Vernon Nazarene University
The data from Mount Vernon Nazarene University over the years reveals trends in standardized test scores and the percentage of applicants submitting these scores. Notably, the number of SAT and ACT submissions has seen a significant decline from 2007 to 2019, with the proportion of applicants submitting SAT scores decreasing from 18% to just 6% in 2018 and 2019. This decline in submissions may reflect a broader trend in higher education where more institutions have adopted test-optional policies, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores.
Regarding the scores, the 25th to 75th percentile range for SAT reading and math scores shows fluctuations over the years. For instance, the SAT reading scores ranged from 440 to 510, while the math scores varied between 540 and 620, indicating a competitive academic environment for those who are admitted. The ACT scores also follow a similar pattern, with composite scores ranging from 18 to 23, suggesting that admitted students tend to perform at or above average compared to national norms.
The fluctuating scores and submission rates could signal changing admission strategies or shifts in student demographics, particularly in light of national discussions about the relevance of standardized testing. As universities continue adapting to these trends, it will be interesting to observe how these factors influence the overall quality and diversity of the student body in the coming years. This ongoing evolution emphasizes the importance of holistic admissions processes that consider a wide range of student achievements and experiences beyond test scores.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
1,230 applicants in 2025, 84.1% admitted
1,035 admitted 195 not admitted Yield 29.3%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's40 (0% international)
- Health/Health Care Administration/Management · Master's20 (0% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's15 (0% international)
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas, Other · Master's13 (0% international)
- Religion/Religious Studies · Master's5 (0% international)
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other · Master's5 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Mount Vernon Nazarene University
The graduation data from Mount Vernon Nazarene University for 2023 reveals significant trends across various degree programs. Notably, the Business Administration and Management program had a notable number of graduates, with 69 individuals earning a master's degree. This highlights the ongoing demand for business education, reflecting a broader trend in the job market where managerial skills are increasingly sought after.
In contrast, the Elementary Education program produced 36 graduates at the bachelor's level. This figure underscores the importance of education professionals in today’s society, particularly in light of recent discussions around educational reform and teacher shortages exacerbated by the pandemic. However, the absence of international students in both the master's and bachelor's programs is striking, suggesting potential barriers for global participation in these fields.
The Registered Nursing program saw 31 graduates at the bachelor's level, a crucial contribution given the ongoing healthcare challenges. The nursing profession is under intense scrutiny during the current global health climate, and this number reflects a commitment to addressing workforce needs in the healthcare sector.
Interestingly, many other programs showed no graduates for both international and local students at various degree levels. This could indicate a need for the university to reassess these programs or enhance recruitment efforts to ensure they attract a diverse student body. Overall, the data points to both strengths in certain areas and opportunities for growth in others, particularly in the realm of international student enrollment and program diversification.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $52,126-$69,248 | |||
| Accounting. | - | |||
| Finance, General. | - | |||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | - | |||
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | |||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $47,313 | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $36,534 | |||
| Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | $36,534 | |||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $36,534 | |||
| Art Teacher Education. | $37,629-$40,602 | |||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | $37,629-$40,602 | |||
| Music Teacher Education. | $37,629-$40,602 | |||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $37,629-$40,602 | |||
| Social Studies Teacher Education. | $37,629-$40,602 | |||
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas, Other. | $37,629-$40,602 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Audiology/Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist. | - | |||
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | $82,295 | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $75,805 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | - | |||
| Social Work. | $41,839 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - | |||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | - | |||
| Mechanical Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Religious Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | |||
| Music, General. | - | |||
| Music Performance, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice and Corrections, General. | - | |||
| Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - | |||
| Communication and Media Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Programming/Programmer, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
Students
1,671 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 41:59 · Freshman retention 79.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 994
- First-year undergraduates 303
- Graduate students 312
- Transfers and others 62
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,359)
Data insights
Demographic Insights of Mount Vernon Nazarene University in 2023
In 2023, Mount Vernon Nazarene University exhibited a diverse student body, reflecting a mixture of undergraduate and graduate populations. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 290, with a notable gender distribution where 35.9% are male and 64.1% are female. This disparity in gender representation is a trend observed in many higher education institutions, where female students often outnumber their male counterparts.
The undergraduate juniors, totaling 1,086 students, show a slightly higher male representation at 39.4%, while female students make up 60.6%. Additionally, the undergraduate transfer students amount to 105, with a male percentage of 32.4% and female representation at 67.6%. This pattern continues with the graduate student demographic of 313, where only 31.6% are men and 68.4% are women.
The data indicates a consistent trend of higher female enrollment rates across all categories of students. This gender imbalance raises questions about the factors influencing these trends, such as societal expectations, recruitment strategies, and potential barriers faced by male students.
Moreover, the breakdown of ethnic representation among these groups is revealing. Although specific data for ethnic diversity is not fully available, it is crucial for universities to understand and address the needs of various ethnic groups to foster an inclusive environment.
Overall, the data from Mount Vernon Nazarene University not only highlights gender disparities but also underscores the importance of striving for a more balanced and diverse student population in higher education. This ongoing challenge will require intentional efforts from the university to create an inclusive community that supports all students, regardless of gender or ethnicity.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Mount Vernon Nazarene University
The age distribution of students at Mount Vernon Nazarene University in 2023 reveals some interesting trends. The largest age group is comprised of students aged 18-19, with a total of 503 individuals, indicating a strong presence of traditional college-age students. This aligns with national trends, where many students enter higher education immediately after high school.
The data shows a gradual decline in the number of students as age increases, particularly in the 25-29 and 30-34 age brackets. For instance, only 135 students fall within the 25-29 age range, which may reflect a common trend where younger individuals complete their undergraduate degrees before pursuing graduate studies or entering the workforce.
Interestingly, there is a small representation of graduate students in the younger age categories, particularly among those aged 22-24, which could suggest that some students are choosing to continue their education immediately after their undergraduate studies. The graduate student population is notably more pronounced in the 25-29 age group, with 70% of graduate students falling into this category, highlighting that many professionals return to academia for advanced degrees.
Furthermore, the presence of students aged 40 and above, although minimal, indicates that non-traditional students are also part of the university's demographic, reflecting a diverse learning environment. This trend aligns with the growing recognition of lifelong learning and the increasing number of adults seeking further education later in life.
Overall, the data illustrates a vibrant and diverse student population at Mount Vernon Nazarene University, catering to both traditional and non-traditional students, thus fostering a rich educational atmosphere.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
4 in 2025 · 1.1% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.9% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Data at Mount Vernon Nazarene University
The data on international students at Mount Vernon Nazarene University over the years presents a mixed picture. Initially, between 2004 and 2007, the percentage of international undergraduates remained relatively low, fluctuating between 0.23% and 0.55%. This indicates a lack of significant engagement with international markets during those years.
However, a notable increase in the number of international undergraduates was observed in 2015, where the percentage surged to 1.30%. This spike may reflect a strategic shift or enhanced recruitment efforts to attract international students, aligning with broader trends in higher education where institutions are increasingly recognizing the value of a diverse student body. The following years saw some fluctuation, but the percentage of international undergraduates did not see a return to its peak, hovering around 0.55% in 2023.
On the graduate level, while the data is less complete, it shows a more encouraging trend, particularly in 2014 and 2015, when the percentage of international graduate students reached 50% and 54%, respectively. This suggests that the graduate programs may have been more successful in attracting international talent, possibly due to specific programs or partnerships that appeal to a global audience.
Overall, Mount Vernon Nazarene University appears to be in a transitional phase regarding its international student body. The increase in diversity at the graduate level is promising, but the undergraduate numbers indicate a need for ongoing efforts to enhance global engagement. As international student recruitment becomes increasingly competitive, the university may want to assess its strategies and outreach to ensure sustainable growth in this area.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$37,587
- Undergraduate tuition
- $27,193
- Room and board
- $10,394
- Graduate tuition
- $10,674
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 51% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 43%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$36.3M
Expenses$38.7M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Crossroads League
Crossroads League: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 82 | 70 |
| Soccer | 48 | 34 |
| Baseball | 37 | - |
| Volleyball | 13 | 24 |
| Lacrosse | 31 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 14 |
| Bowling | 11 | 12 |
| Golf | 15 | 7 |
| Softball | - | 17 |
| Tennis | 6 | 6 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 75 | 52 |
| Soccer | 37 | 38 |
| Basketball | 26 | 21 |
| Baseball | 39 | - |
| Lacrosse | 32 | - |
| Volleyball | 15 | 17 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Golf | 13 | 6 |
| Bowling | 9 | 9 |
| Tennis | 8 | 7 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 35 | 22 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 32 | 22 |
| Soccer | 28 | 22 |
| Baseball | 41 | - |
| Lacrosse | 33 | - |
| Volleyball | 14 | 17 |
| Basketball | 14 | 14 |
| Cross Country | 14 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Golf | 13 | 6 |
| Bowling | 11 | 7 |
| Tennis | 7 | 9 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Kenyon CollegeGambier · 3.8 mi
Liberal Arts #41
-
Denison UniversityGranville · 21.0 mi
Liberal Arts #31
-
Ohio State University-Main CampusColumbus · 38.3 mi
U.S. News #44
-
College of WoosterWooster · 41.3 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Oberlin CollegeOberlin · 64.9 mi
Liberal Arts #59
-
Ohio University-Main CampusAthens · 74.9 mi
U.S. News #202
-
Kent State University at KentKent · 79.7 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Case Western Reserve UniversityCleveland · 90.4 mi
U.S. News #44
-
Bowling Green State University-Main CampusBowling Green · 92.4 mi
U.S. News #276
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions near Mount Vernon Nazarene University:
-
Kenyon College - Ranked 39th, Kenyon College is a liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life.
-
Denison University - Also ranked 39th, Denison University offers a strong liberal arts education and is recognized for its commitment to undergraduate teaching.
-
Ohio State University-Main Campus - Ranked 43rd, Ohio State University is a large public research university with a diverse range of programs and a vibrant campus community.
-
Oberlin College - Ranked 51st, Oberlin College is known for its progressive values and strong emphasis on the arts and humanities.
-
The College of Wooster - Ranked 75th, Wooster is a liberal arts college that emphasizes independent research and a close-knit academic community.
These institutions offer a variety of educational experiences and resources, making them excellent options for students in the area.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Mount Vernon Nazarene University
The crime statistics at Mount Vernon Nazarene University present a concerning trend over the past decade. Although the overall crime rate per 1000 students was relatively low in 2013, with a rate of 0.35, it has seen a significant increase, peaking at 5.87 in 2023. This represents a staggering rise of over 1600% from the initial figures, indicating a worsening safety environment on campus.
The breakdown of specific offenses reveals alarming figures in recent years. Particularly noteworthy is the increase in arrests related to drug offenses and incidents of assault, which have contributed to the overall rise in crime rates. For instance, the arrest rate for drug-related crimes reached a high in 2022 and 2023, coinciding with a broader national concern regarding substance abuse on college campuses.
Additionally, incidents of domestic violence and stalking have been reported, suggesting that interpersonal violence may be a growing issue within the university community. The spike in crime rates during the pandemic years suggests that the stresses associated with COVID-19 may have exacerbated existing issues, leading to an increase in reported incidents.
This trend should prompt immediate attention from university administration and local law enforcement to enhance campus safety measures, provide support for affected students, and implement educational programs aimed at reducing substance abuse and promoting healthy relationships. The rise in crime not only impacts student safety but can also affect the overall reputation of the university, making it crucial to address these issues proactively.
For more information on the calculation of crime rates, please visit this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.