Education & Social Policy Studies Program Highlights
Students in Mount Vernon Nazarene University’s Education & Social Policy Studies program gain practical, hands-on experience through internships and field placements with schools, nonprofits, social service agencies, and community organizations. The interdisciplinary curriculum allows students to apply concepts from education, psychology, sociology, social work, and business in real-world settings while exploring career paths connected to advocacy, leadership, and community support. Internship opportunities are tailored to students’ individual interests and concentrations, helping them build professional skills and meaningful connections before graduation.
Faith is intentionally integrated throughout the Education & Social Policy Studies program at MVNU. Courses encourage students to examine social and educational challenges through a Christian worldview while emphasizing compassion, service, ethics, and advocacy for marginalized populations. Faculty members help students connect biblical principles with leadership and community engagement, preparing graduates to serve others with integrity and Christ-centered purpose in both educational and social service environments.
Our travel and study-afar programs let you grow in your faith while experiencing new cultures. Through serving in communities across the U.S. or abroad, you’ll deepen your compassion, explore your callings, and gain meaningful experience for your résumé.
Why Choose MVNU
The Education & Social Policy Studies program at MVNU is designed for students interested in education and community impact outside of traditional teacher licensure pathways. Students can choose from concentrations such as Community Leadership Studies, Curriculum & Instruction Studies, Early Education & Child Studies, or Human Services & Social Policy Studies to personalize their degree.
Throughout the program, students can expect small class sizes, individualized faculty mentorship, interdisciplinary coursework, internship experiences, and preparation for careers in nonprofit organizations, social services, education policy, advocacy, and community leadership. The program equips graduates to think holistically about supporting children, families, and underserved communities while pursuing meaningful service-oriented careers.
Concentrations
- Community Leadership Studies
- Curriculum and Instruction Studies
- Early Education and Child Studies
- Human Services and Social Policy Studies
Course Descriptions
Browse the course descriptions to explore your program’s classes.
Financial Aid & Costs
Discover the financial aid opportunities available to help make an MVNU education affordable.
Student Support
The Center for Student Success helps you build skills and succeed academically.
Meet Our Education Faculty
Professors in the Education Department at MVNU are knowledgeable and experienced educators who actively engage with students throughout their academic journey and classroom preparation. Faculty members bring valuable experience from real educational settings and remain connected to current practices and developments in the field of education to help students grow into effective, compassionate teachers.
Take a closer look at MVNU without leaving home. Our virtual tour lets you explore campus, step inside buildings, and get a feel for student life at your own pace. Start exploring today!
What Can You Do With An Education & Social Policy Studies Degree?
Graduates of the Education & Social Policy Studies program at MVNU can explore career opportunities in a variety of settings that may include:
- Teaching in private/charter schools
- Teaching in Christian schools
- Corporate training
- Education non-profit work with organizations like the YMCA, the United Way, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts of America, and many others
- Recreation and summer camps
- GED tutoring
- Suicide prevention groups
- Transitional shelters
- Refugee support groups
- Textbook/publishing companies
- Education consulting
- Education policy/government work
Did you know MVNU offers online degree programs? After graduating with your undergraduate degree, you can continue your education with a 100% online master’s program.
Check these majors out, too
Secondary Education (7-12)
Teach middle, junior high, or high school math, social studies, or language arts.
Elementary Education/Elementary Intervention (P-5)
Share knowledge with future generations and ensure equal learning opportunities for children with our on-campus program.
Still exploring your options? Discover all the undergraduate majors available at MVNU and find the program that fits your passions and goals.