Find out more about Northwest Nazarene University

The online Associate of Arts in Liberal Studies degree program from Northwest Nazarene University is designed to provide the first two years of study for students aiming to transfer into a baccalaureate program. The curriculum consists of courses in:

• Christian Formation
• Humanities
• Sciences
• Intellectual & Practical Skills
• Mathematics

The online Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies degree program from Northwest Nazarene University provides students with the content, methodology, and implications of the basic areas of human knowledge; fosters the attitude of intellectual curiosity harnessed by moral responsibility; and encourages students to think for themselves, enabling them to participate in life as autonomous individuals. There are three emphasis areas within the curriculum:

• Humanities
• Mathematics & Science
• Social Science

The online Associate of Arts in Accounting is convenient and flexible, enabling students to continue working and living in their local community while pursuing this degree.  Students are developed into ethical servant leaders who can transform a global society for the kingdom of Christ through a strong, scholarly business curriculum rooted in the liberal arts tradition and delivered through traditional and innovative methods.  Graduates can transfer this degree into bachelor’s degree programs.

The online Associate of Arts in Business is convenient and flexible, enabling students to continue working and living in their local community while pursuing this degree.  Students are developed into ethical servant leaders who can transform a global society for the kingdom of Christ through a strong, scholarly business curriculum rooted in the liberal arts tradition and delivered through traditional and innovative methods.  Graduates can transfer this degree into bachelor’s degree programs.

The online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration prepares the adult learner to enter business careers or pursue graduate work in the field by completing this program while working full-time and handling family obligations.  Students are developed into ethical servant leaders who can transform a global society for the kingdom of Christ through a strong, scholarly business curriculum rooted in the liberal arts tradition and delivered through traditional and innovative methods.  Courses teach accounting, finance, economics, management, information technology, ethics, marketing, communication, teamwork, qualitative and quantitative analysis, social responsibility, and workplace respect.

Advance your accounting career or prepare for a career change with the online Master of Accountancy. Prerequisites are available to students with an undergraduate degree in a major other than accounting, while those with an accounting bachelor’s degree can take the fast track and finish their master’s degree in as little as 11 months.

Students in this online accounting degree program can choose from two tracks: Professional Accounting (CPA) or Management Accounting (CMA). Coursework for each track is chosen to best prepare students for the corresponding certification exams and fulfill educational requirements. Students receive top-of-the-line exam prep resources and access to a certified professional who can provide guidance on studying and preparing for certification.

All students will take a set of core courses including:

• Managerial and Cost Accounting
• Ethics in Management
• Business Analytics and Valuation
• Advanced Accounting Information Systems
• Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination

The online MBA degree program is a generalist program in business administration.  This program is designed for working adults who are willing to commit to an intensive course of study.  Students will take two courses at a time for eight-week periods.  Required courses can be completed in just 16 months.  

Special emphases focusing on specific sectors of the economy are offered for students who wish to customize their degree to suit their personal interests and career goals.

The online Associate of Arts in Elementary Education from Northwest Nazarene University is the first step in preparing individuals to become teaching professionals. After completing this program, students may transfer into NNU’s Bachelor of Arts program. With no existing credits, the AA in elementary education can be completed in two years, and students with existing credits may finish sooner.

Career opportunities for graduates include, but are not limited to:

• Elementary school teacher
• Middle school teacher
• Secondary school teacher

Dedicated professors are always available to answer questions and provide guidance. Plenty of online resources are available for students to access. By obtaining the online Associate of Arts in Elementary Education, graduates can begin their path toward becoming teaching professionals.

The online Associate of Arts in Secondary Education from Northwest Nazarene University is the first step in preparing individuals to become successful educators. After completing this program, students may transfer into NNU’s Bachelor of Arts program. With no existing credits, the AA in secondary education can be completed in two years, students with existing credits may finish sooner.

Career opportunities for graduates include, but are not limited to:

• Elementary teacher
• Middle school teacher
• Secondary school teacher

Experienced and dedicated faculty are always available to answer questions and provide guidance to students. Many online resources are available for students to access during the program. By obtaining the online Associate of Arts in Elementary Education, graduates can begin new, rewarding careers in education.

The online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Northwest Nazarene University provides advanced research and study for educators interested in educational leadership roles. Flexible scheduling is convenient for working professionals to be able to balance work with classes. New cohorts begin in the spring of each year. 

Classes offered include, but are not limited to: 

• Introduction to educational research
• Dissertation research
• Effective leadership for change management  

This Ph.D. program is for students who are committed to success and have a strong passion for leadership. Doctorally-prepared experienced faculty bring their knowledge and ideas to each class. The online doctoral program in Educational Leadership allows graduates to pursue higher leadership positions in education.

The online Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership from Northwest Nazarene University provides advanced study for educators interested in educational leadership. Flexible scheduling is convenient for working professionals. New cohorts begin in January each year. 

Classes offered include, but are not limited to: 

• Advanced qualitative research
• Dissertation writing and defense
• Policy influence and development

 

This Ph.D. program is for students who are committed to excellence and have a passion for leadership. Doctorally-prepared faculty with extensive experience bring their knowledge and ideas to each class. The online doctoral program in Educational Leadership puts graduates on a path to success in education.

With a focus on leadership, research practices, and personal reflection, the online Master of Education in Curriculum, Instruction, and Innovation from Northwest Nazarene University equips graduates with the necessary skills to effectively use technology in today’s educational environment. This online program emphasizes personal learning and can be completed in 18 months. Students are aided by faculty advisors to help direct the course of study.



A sample of classes offered include: 

• Instructional coaching
• Teachers as leaders
• The learning process

Graduates can move into careers such as education administrators, elementary school teachers, middle school teachers, and more. Expert faculty provide relevant and practical lessons in each class. Graduates will have the correct attitudes and skills to remain current in an ever-changing educational environment.

The Education Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership and Building Administrator is designed for education professionals with a Master’s Degree who are seeking leadership roles in Building Administration. Emphasis is placed on instruction, service, professional development, ethical decision-making, problem-solving, and creative solutions. This online program is designed to fit the needs of working professionals by offering convenience and flexibility. 

Classes include, but are not limited to: 

• Special education law for administrators
• Mixed methods research
• Administering human resources



Accessible faculty and staff allow for support throughout the course of the program. Classes start every eight weeks and new students may join any time during the year. Completion of this online program leads to an Education Specialist degree with an Idaho Administrator Certificate endorsement as a School Principal.

The online Education Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership/Director of Special Education from Northwest Nazarene University is designed for certified teachers with a Master’s Degree who are seeking leadership positions in special education. Emphasis is placed on instruction methods, service work, professional development, decision-making skills, complex problem-solving, and finding creative solutions to various issues. This online program is designed to fit the needs of busy, working professionals by offering convenience and flexibility.

Classes include, but are not limited to:

• Special education law for administrators
• Seminar: Special education policies and procedures
• Legal and financial issues in education

Experienced and professional faculty and staff allow for support throughout the program. This program takes approximately 17-24 months to complete. Completion of this online program leads to an Education Specialist degree with an Idaho Administrator Certificate endorsement as a Director of Special Education.

The online Education Specialist in Educational Leadership/Leadership Organizational Development from Northwest Nazarene University is for individuals who hold a master’s degree and are interested in leadership positions in community organizations, businesses, or higher education. This online program uses set courses so that students can plan their schedules ahead of time. This program typically can be completed in 22 months. 

Classes include, but are not limited to: 



• Data-driven decision making
• Conceptual statistics and applications for educators 
• Educational change: A historical perspective

Classes begin every eight weeks and new students can join throughout the year. This program also serves students who are looking to enroll in the NNU doctoral program. Graduates can look forward to successful, rewarding careers as education specialists.

The online Education Specialist in Educational Leadership/Superintendent from Northwest Nazarene University is designed for individuals who hold a Master’s Degree and building administrator certification who are seeking to advance their careers. This online program can be completed in 22 months. Designed to fit the schedules of working students, set courses can be planned ahead of time. 

Courses include, but are not limited to: 

• The superintendency
• Advanced school finance
• Public relations and marketing for schools 



Coursework emphasizes decision-making, leadership skills, financial skills, and resource management. Graduates can move into careers such as Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent, and other central office roles in school districts. Students participate in a year-long internship at the district office level.

The online Education Specialist in Special Education from Northwest Nazarene University is designed for individuals who hold a master’s degree and teaching certification who wish to gain further experience in special education. This online degree can be completed in less than two years. Emphasis is placed on trauma informed teaching.

Some classes offered include, but are not limited to: 

• Assessment and collaboration
• Behavior intervention and treatment
• Conceptual statistics and application



Classes are led by dedicated and professional faculty. Students have access to many online resources during the course of their post graduate certification. The online Education Specialist in Special Education produces compassionate teacher leaders who are ready to step into special education classrooms with confidence and success.

Northwest Nazarene University’s Master of Arts in Teaching/Elementary Education is designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in any subject and wish to become elementary school teachers. This 16-month online program offers a flexible schedule, one year of coursework, and one semester of student teaching. New cohorts start every fall semester.

Some of the courses offered include: 

• Elementary classroom management
• Learning and the brain
• Elementary content literacy

Classes are led by experienced and dedicated faculty. Students have access to many online resources for assistance. The online master’s degree in Elementary Education produces teacher candidates who are ready to step into elementary or middle school classrooms with the confidence and skills to succeed.

Northwest Nazarene University’s Master of Arts in Teaching/Secondary Education is designed for individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree in any discipline and wish to become secondary school teachers. This 16-month online master’s degree offers a flexible schedule, one year of coursework, and four months of student teaching. New cohorts begin every fall semester.

Some of the courses offered include:

• Secondary content methods
• Secondary teaching methods
• Innovative instruction

Classes are led by experienced, professional faculty. Students have access to many online resources during their courses. The online master’s degree in Secondary Education produces strong teacher candidates who are ready to step into school classrooms with the knowledge and ability to succeed.

With a focus on leadership, research practices, and personal reflection, the online Master of Education in Curriculum, Instruction, and Innovation from Northwest Nazarene University equips graduates with the necessary skills to effectively use technology in today’s educational environment. This online program emphasizes personal learning and can be completed in 18 months. Students are aided by faculty advisors to help direct the course of study.

A sample of classes offered include: 

• Instructional coaching
• Teachers as leaders
• The learning process



Graduates can move into careers such as education administrators, elementary school teachers, middle school teachers, and more. Expert faculty provide relevant and practical lessons in each class. Graduates will have the correct attitudes and skills to remain current in an ever-changing educational environment.

The online Master of Education in Educational Leadership/Building Administrator is for individuals seeking formal leadership roles in schools such as principals, assistant principals, or instructional team leaders. This program can be completed in 22 months. Ideal for working professionals, courses can be set ahead of time to plan schedules.

A sample of classes includes:

• Educational values
• Instructional supervision and leadership
• Special education law for administrators

Students benefit from supportive, experienced faculty and staff. Classes start every eight weeks, and new students may join during the year. Successful completion of this program allows the graduate to be recommended by the State of Idaho for a Pre K-12 Principal endorsement on an Idaho Administrator Certificate.

The online RN to BSN degree program from Northwest Nazarene University provides a course of study for registered nurses to enhance their critial thinking and communication skills while concurrently developing their leadership abilities. Coursework covers topics such as:

• Systems management
• ​Evidence-based practice/nursing research
• ​Nursing of diverse communities and populations
• History of nursing
• Leadership

NNU offers an online Master of Science in Nursing / Family Nurse Practitioner degree. Graduates are eligible to sit for national licensure as a FNP and assume the role of Advanced Practice Clinician in nursing.

The curriculum of this online Nurse Practitioner degree incorporates online courses, clinical experiences in the student’s home state, and residency hours on the NNU campus. Coursework focuses on assessing, diagnosing, and treating clients of various ages, backgrounds, and cultures. Students also gain expertise in health policy, health promotion, and translational science.

Classes cover topics including:

• Population health and interprofessional collaboration
• Healthcare systems
• Primary care of the family
• Professional practice issues
• Pharmacology and pathophysiology for advanced practice nursing

The online MSN degree program focusing on Leadership & Education offered by Northwest Nazarene University aims to prepare its students for advanced nursing roles. Students in this master’s in Nursing Education have the opportunity to learn and develop via the latest technology, the practice of teaching, and the challenge of designing and implementing programs and nursing curricula. 

The program examines ways to utilize evidence-based practice and research findings to deliver quality care in clinical settings. Nurses learn how to advocate for diverse populations and demonstrate social justice in healthcare delivery. Graduates of this nursing administration degree program will be able to promote healthy communities in collaboration with an interprofessional healthcare team.

Coursework covers topics such as:

• ​Leadership perspectives
• ​Population health
• ​Healthcare systems/policy
• Pathophysiology
• Pharmacology
• Principles of teaching and curriculum development
• ​Organizational leadership

The online Associate of Arts in Christian Studies program is an affordable, flexible program that provides a deeper understanding of the Christian faith.  The curriculum uses the Christian worldview, especially the Nazarene version, to build a firm foundation that transforms the students’ faith and strengthens their learning.  You will receive an education with both depth and breadth, including a solid educational core geared around the exploration of various ministry practices and combined with classical Christian disciplines.  The program features courses in general education that includes English, History, Psychology, Mathematics, Communications, and more, and is rounded out with courses in Christian Studies that include:

• Bible
• Christian Education
• Church History
• Philosophy
• Practical Theology
• Theology

Upon completion of this associate degree, students can transfer all their courses into traditional on-campus programs, accelerated Adult and Professional Programs, or online Bachelor of Arts tracks in Christian Ministry, Business, Nursing, Applied Studies, and Liberal Studies.

You can pursue spiritual formation with the Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry from Northwest Nazarene University. The online leadership & ministry degree offers such electives as:

• Youth ministries
• Instructional bible study
• Compassionate ministries
• Communicating the Gospel

Through the online leadership & ministry bachelor’s degree program, you have opportunities for strong biblical and theological reflection. Graduates have the knowledge and skills to go directly into ministry upon completing their degree.

For those who feel that deep calling or passion, you can delve into the Doctor of Theology from Northwest Nazarene University. The online theology degree benefits those in leadership roles in such areas as:

• Pastoral
• Ministerial
• Educational
• Ecclesiastical

Through the online theology doctoral program, you experience a comprehensive exploration of the Church. Your online studies focus on specific Church practices, providing an interdisciplinary education to hone your skills, deepen your knowledge, and impact the world!

You can gain expertise in a particular facet of the Christian tradition with the Graduate Certificate in Missional Leadership from Northwest Nazarene University. The online leadership & ministry program offers both personal and professional development in a condensed format.

Through the online leadership & ministry graduate certificate program, you set the pace of your studies. Students may complete one or two courses per semester.

You can gain expertise in the soul’s growth with the Graduate Certificate in Spiritual Formation from Northwest Nazarene University. The online religion program offers courses in such areas as:

• Spiritual direction
• Personal development
• Nurturing the inner life
• Spirituality of soul care

Through the online religion graduate certificate program, you develop your professional skills. Students appreciate the flexibility of online courses and being able to earn credentials without undertaking a degree program.

In as few as 21 months, you can earn your Graduate Certificate in Wesleyan Studies from Northwest Nazarene University. The online religion program explores such topics as:

• Reflecting on character: philosophy and the Christian life
• Engaging with prophetic voices: theology and the Christian life
• Founded on embodied tradition: church history and the Christian life
• Grounded in the Living Word: scripture and the Christian life

Through the online religion graduate certificate program, you grow both professionally and personally. Your online studies offer flexibility and credentials to further your career.

You may complete your studies in as few as 18 months with the Graduate Certificate in Youth, Children & Family Ministry. The online pastoral counseling program explores such topics as:

• Missional ministry
• Leadership in ministry
• Foundations of youth, children, and family ministry
• Developmental and spiritual formation of youth, children, and families

Through the online pastoral counseling graduate certificate program, you can apply your credits towards a master’s degree, should you choose to continue your studies. Your online courses provide flexibility so you can succeed in your educational goals.

Northwest Nazarene University offers an online Master of Arts in Missional Leadership degree for those who are looking to learn more theory and practice for Christian leadership outside of churches.  Students will have flexibility and an online community to gain skills related to missions careers as they complete their studies without the need to relocate.  This program emphasizes the need for followers of Christ to live out the gospel, so it is seen and experienced in the community and provides courses and materials that focus on creative and missional engagement to help students become empowered and trained as innovative kingdom-builders.  Advancement in missional leadership is both incarnational and holistic with missional leaders recognizing the importance of tradition and both the opportunities and pitfalls found within culture.  Students learn to lead through servanthood and seek to ground their ministries biblically and theologically.  

Graduates:

• Understand interplay between cultural, philosophical, and theological shifts that inform ministry practice
• Utilize insights of missional leadership to evaluate and assess congregational contexts
• Move people and congregations toward practices that agree with Wesleyan-Holiness theology
• Understand and explain God’s mission in this dynamic and changing world
• Engage the social context from the perspective of Christian missions to articulate the gospel

You can prepare for Christian ministry with the Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry from Northwest Nazarene University. The online leadership & ministry degree can lead to fulfilling work.

Through the online leadership & ministry master’s degree program, you embark on a journey of service to God and His people. Your online studies deliver a solid vocational foundation, leading to ordination in the Church of the Nazarene.

Northwest Nazarene University offers an online Master of Arts in Spiritual Formation.  The program covers theology and practices of Christian traditions and ministry applications.  Students do not have to travel and can interact with and learn from peers across the US and abroad, adding an intercultural element that increases depth to both student interaction and ministry application.  The curriculum explores the history, philosophy, theology, and practices of spirituality in the Christian tradition.  You will grow personally and professionally, as well as spiritually, through the incorporation of classroom interactions, learning, and mentoring. 

Graduates are prepared to:

• Integrate various ways spiritual formation may be part of ministries in local churches
• Understand and develop spiritual formation practices that foster personal and spiritual growth
• Become spiritual directors to local groups by utilizing spiritual formation practices
• Assess spiritual journeys for individuals and communities to create plans that stimulate growth in acts of piety and mercy

You can take a holistic approach to ministry with the Master of Arts in Leadership & Formation / Youth, Children & Family Ministry from Northwest Nazarene University. The online leadership & ministry degree explores such topics as:

• Supervised ministry
• Leadership in ministry
• Personal development
• Developmental and spiritual formation of youth, children, and families

Through the online leadership & ministry master’s degree program, you dive deeply into Wesleyan-Holiness theology. Your online studies benefit those in a vocational ministry role or laypeople seeking training to better serve their congregations.

You can train as a transformational leader with the Master of Divinity /Missional Leadership from Northwest Nazarene University. The online leadership and ministry degree explores such topics as:

• Advanced Biblical Exegesis
• Old Testament interpretation
• New Testament interpretation
• Grounded in the Living Word: Scripture and the Christian Life

Through the online leadership and ministry master’s degree program, you prepare for ordained ministry both inside and outside the local church. Your online studies can lead to roles in mission, chaplaincy, associate ministries, and pastoral leadership.

The online Master of Divinity in Spiritual Formation degree is offered by Northwest Nazarene University for students interested in exploring spirituality in Christianity.  The program looks at the history, philosophy, theology, and practices of spirituality in the Christian faith and tradition.  The rigorous curriculum helps students grow through personal and professional incorporation of their learning, interactions with their professors and other members of the learning community, and mentors from the program.  Students complete courses in online orientation, pastoral ministry, and the specialization, Spiritual Formation, although the flexible program allows them to choose to begin with the core or the specialization courses.  

Graduates are prepared to:

• Integrate various ways spiritual formation may be part of ministries in local churches
• Understand and develop spiritual formation practices that foster personal and spiritual growth
• Become spiritual directors to local groups by utilizing spiritual formation practices
• Assess spiritual journeys for individuals and communities to create plans that stimulate growth in acts of piety and mercy

You can get ministry-ready with the Master of Divinity / Youth, Children & Family Ministry from Northwest Nazarene University. The online leadership & ministry degree satisfies the educational requirements for Church of the Nazarene ordination.

Through the online leadership & ministry master’s degree program, you prepare to make a difference in the lives of your congregation. Your online studies lead you to such outcomes as:

• Deepening your faith
• Expanding your knowledge
• Preparing for a fulfilling ministry career