MVNU enrollment reaches highest level in 15 years

Mount Vernon Nazarene University is celebrating its highest enrollment in 15 years after welcoming 334 new students to campus this fall. Pictured are members of the class during the annual New Student Institute.

MOUNT VERNON, Ohio — Mount Vernon Nazarene University is opening the fall semester with its highest enrollment in more than a decade. Total enrollment has reached 2,545 students, the university’s highest level since 2011, continuing a pattern of year-over-year growth since Dr. Carson Castleman became president in fall 2023.

MVNU enrollment has grown each year, from 1,893 students in 2023 to 2,078 in 2024, 2,291 in 2025 and 2,545 in 2026 — an increase of 652 students in three years.

“This year’s enrollment numbers tell a clear story: MVNU is moving in the right direction,” said Dr. Castleman. “I thank God for His care and direction for the University’s future.”

College of Arts and Sciences reaches key milestones

The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) enrolled its largest first-time-in-college (FTIC) class since 2020, welcoming 334 new students to campus this fall. Overall CAS enrollment reached 1,398 students, the college’s highest total since 2020.

MVNU also recorded its largest College Credit Plus class ever, with 320 high school students earning college credit while completing their secondary education.

“It has been an exciting recruitment year, getting to work with and welcome members of the Fall 2026 class,” said Rob Stanley, M.S., Vice President of Enrollment Management. “This past year, our team has had the privilege of meeting many of them on the road and praying with them during their campus visit. We know God has unique experiences in store for each of them, and we see this year’s class contributing greatly to the MVNU community. We couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome them to MVNU.”

The most popular majors among traditional students this fall include Nursing, Biology, Elementary Education/Elementary Intervention P-5, Engineering and Business Administration.

The incoming class also reflects MVNU’s strong connection to the Church of the Nazarene. Among the 334 traditional CAS FTIC students, 107 — 32% — identify as Nazarene, making it the largest reported denomination among the incoming traditional student cohort. Other reported affiliations include Non-Denominational (72), Baptist (34), Other (28) and Christian (24).

CAPS reaches highest enrollment since 2011

The College of Adult and Professional Studies (CAPS) reached 1,147 students, its strongest enrollment in 15 years. CAPS enrollment through MVNU Online and the International Executive Studies (IES) programs has nearly doubled since 2023, when enrollment stood at 591 students.

“This year’s CAPS growth reflects the incredible demand for flexible, Christ-centered educational opportunities that meet students where they are,” said Johnna K. Vanover, MOL, Vice President for University Marketing and CAPS Enrollment. “Through the continued expansion of our IES programs and the strength of MVNU Online, we are extending the reach of the university’s mission far beyond our campus and serving students from diverse backgrounds around the world.”

At the undergraduate level, the top 5 CAPS programs include Management Information Systems, Social Work, Elementary Education (P-5), Business Administration and Christian Ministry. Making up the top 5 graduate degrees and credentials are Management, Business Administration, Social Work, Practical Theology and Professional Educator’s License/Intervention Specialist.

Through MVNU’s IES programs and new degree options, CAPS continues to make strides toward becoming the preferred learning option for working adults. Vanover credits that growth to the people behind it.

“This achievement is the result of the collaborative efforts of our enrollment, marketing, student success, academic, and operational teams, all working together to create pathways that help students achieve their educational and professional goals,” Vanover said. “We are grateful for the trust our students place in MVNU and excited about the lasting impact this growth will have on individuals, families, and communities both locally and globally.”

Growth reflects universitywide effort

Dr. Castleman credited the enrollment gains to the collective work of faculty and staff across campus.

“These are not just numbers on a page,” he said. “They reflect the hard work of our admissions, academic, and enrollment teams and growing confidence in what MVNU offers. But more than that, they reflect all of us. Everyone — in classrooms, offices, residence halls, and everywhere in between — plays a part in why students choose MVNU and why they stay.”

Dr. Castleman also acknowledged that significant work remains as the university pursues long-term financial stability.

“We still have a long way to go, and I will not pretend otherwise,” he added. “But with God’s help, we are going to achieve a balanced budget, and these numbers tell me we’re building real momentum.”

As MVNU begins the 2026-27 academic year, the university will continue building on its enrollment growth while remaining focused on its mission of providing a Christ-centered education that prepares students for lives of meaningful learning, service and leadership.

“I am grateful for the momentum we are building, and I look forward to sharing more,” Dr. Castleman said.

For more information about MVNU’s on-campus, online and College Credit Plus programs, visit mvnu.edu.