History

Olivet University is a warm and friendly place to pursue a serious Christian education. Olivet University students come from a wide range of age groups, geographical areas, educational backgrounds, and cultural heritages.
All applicants to Olivet University should evidence strong Christian character, potential for effectiveness in Christian ministry, and the scholastic ability and emotional maturity to handle a higher education experience.
Olivet professors understand their academic work to be in the service of the church. Most faculty members have experienced ministry first-hand and all are currently engaged in the life of the church from the local to the national level.
From our Riverside main campus to specialized IT experiences in San Francisco, our specially designed sites are sure to have something for you.
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As a Christian institution, we strive to create and promote an atmosphere consistent with the Christian faith, which encourages the student to develop his/her fullest potential, both in and out of the classroom.
- Spiritual Formation
- Christian Service

In 2000, Olivet was established as a Bible college named the Olivet Theological College & Seminary (OTCS). OTCS functioned as a ‘seedbed' for missions, offering multiple fields of study and distance learning to ministry-bound students all over the world. OTCS developed quickly, necessitating several major changes to accommodate the school's diverse student body.

In 2004, Olivet University was incorporated and established multiple departments, each offering different degree programs. In addition to OTCS, there is the Jubilee College of Music, Olivet School of Journalism, Olivet School of Art & Design, Olivet Institute of Technology, Olivet School of Language Education, Olivet School of Business, Zinzendorf School of Doctoral Studies, Olivet Institute for Global Strategic Studies, Olive Branch Institute of Islamic Understanding, and Institute of Faith and Family.

The university's latest reorganization was supported by several key Christian ministries affiliated with the individual College divisions. These connections – some of which date back to Olivet's founding – are clearer and stronger as a result of Olivet University's current structure, especially in the areas of Olivet student recruitment and alumni employment.

Olivet University alumni later began an association of evangelical bodies named the World Olivet Assembly. Through a collaborative network, Olivet University aspires to carry out its mission of equipping ministers with opportunities and skills to revolutionize the world through Christian mission.

Olivet University’s present-day 924 acre property in Riverside Southern California offers a multidisciplinary residential campus with emphasis on academic studies and spiritual formation.