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Affordable Excellence Meets Innovation In New Academic Programs

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Carol Best
A teacher in a classroom, working at a desk while smiling at the camera

MNU is launching three new academic programs designed to meet the evolving needs of learners preparing for their futures. These new fields of study combine innovation, flexibility, and academic excellence with compassionate academic support that MNU is known for.

MEd Instructional Specialist

A completely different way to craft your own graduate educational experience is launching in MNU’s new Master of Education in Instructional Specialist one-year program. It’s designed for educators who want to tailor their learning to their passions and the real-world needs they see in the classroom. Self-directed learners who want to dive deep in their field will benefit from the support of a dedicated faculty mentor. Each student’s customized learning journey may include a dynamic set of course options or a design of one’s own. Whether the focus is instructional coaching, literacy leadership, STEAM innovation, or another area, students can gain the tools, confidence, and expertise to lead meaningful change.

Applied AI in Business Concentration (Available in the BBA and BA in Organizational Leadership)

As artificial intelligence continues to transform the workplace, MNU is helping students stay ahead of the curve with a new Applied AI in Business concentration. Offered within two accelerated programs, the online Bachelor of Business Administration and the Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership, this concentration explores how AI can improve decision-making, customer service, efficiency, and innovation in real-world business settings. Courses cover topics like generative and agentic AI, ethical considerations, and practical applications. Whether students are just finishing their degree or already working in the field, this option offers relevant, future-ready training.

Bachelor of Arts in Narrative Studies

This new undergraduate major in MNU’s traditional program is built for students who want to understand and shape the stories that influence culture. The Narrative Studies major dives into literature, film, theater, and ministry—exploring how stories are created and why they matter. The program prepares students for careers in the growing field of content creation and development—teaching them to shape messages that inform, inspire, and influence culture across media, marketing, ministry, and more.

New Program Benefits

  • Cutting‑Edge Relevance: The Applied AI concentration positions students at the forefront of technology and business.
  • Professional Impact: The Med Instructional Specialist prepares educators to lead and drive meaningful change.
  • Storytelling Power: Narrative Studies addresses humanity’s growing need for meaning-makers and influence across multiple platforms.
  • Flexible Format & Affordability: Two of the programs are available online and in accelerated formats, tailored for busy professionals. MNU offers affordability in financial assistance and competitive pricing.

Ready to Learn More?

Explore these new programs and discover how MNU supports your academic and career aspirations:

  • Visit mnu.edu to review each program’s curriculum and requirements.
  • Chat with an admissions counselor to tailor your path.
  • Investigate financial aid options, payment plans, and scholarship opportunities.

Jan
20
MNU’s 20th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration
College Church of the Nazarene, 2020 E. Sheridan, Olathe, Kansas
9:30 am

Jan
24
January Virtual College Affordability Seminar
Online
10:00 am

11:00 am
Jan
30
MNU Family Weekend at Great Wolf Lodge
Great Wolf Lodge, Kansas City, KS
3:00 pm

11:00 am
Jan
31
Olathe's Got Talent 2026
Bell Cultural Events Center - Mabee Performing Arts Hall
7:00 pm

9:00 pm

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Dr. Abby Hodges

Vice President for Academic Affairs

PhD; Organic Chemistry, Yale University 
MS; Organic Chemistry, Yale University 
BS; Chemistry, Denison University

Dr. Hodges began her career in higher education at Azusa Pacific University as a chemistry professor from 2008 to 2014. She then moved to MNU where she taught and in 2018 was appointed Chair of the Department of Natural, Health, and Mathematical Sciences. From 2022-2023, before accepting the Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Hodges was the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.

Dr. Hodges’ career research has focused on protein folding and protein engineering, and she has mentored over twenty students in these research projects. She has also furthered the MNU first-year experience program and chaired the General Education committee for five years. Dr. Hodges was recognized as the MNU Faculty of the Year in 2021.

Dr. Hodges lives in Olathe with her husband Ryan and two boys.