Rigorous academics for the common good at Eastern Mennonite University in Virginia Rigorous academics for the common good at Eastern Mennonite University in Virginia Rigorous academics for the common good at Eastern Mennonite University in Virginia Rigorous academics for the common good at Eastern Mennonite University in Virginia Rigorous academics for the common good at Eastern Mennonite University in Virginia Rigorous academics for the common good at Eastern Mennonite University in Virginia Rigorous academics for the common good at Eastern Mennonite University in Virginia Rigorous academics for the common good at Eastern Mennonite University in Virginia Rigorous academics for the common good at Eastern Mennonite University in Virginia

Academics Like No Other

We’ve got the same programs the big schools offer, but our small class size and liberal arts focus gives professors the opportunity to mentor you 1:1. Faculty work with students like you to shape your college experience with unique courses and in-the-field practicums and internships.

They collaborate with you on PhD-level research, challenge you to lead fellow students to international recognition. Then they’ll join you for a cup of joe at the student coffeehouse.

Interested in graduate studies?

The value of liberal arts

Investing in a liberal arts education at a small Christian university will prepare you for life. Rigorous academics, mentoring relationships with professors, a network of life-long friends and ethical character development are all worth more than just a diploma. EMU graduates are favored by grad schools, sought after by employers and prepared with skills for a lifetime. A number of factors make the difference.

Here’s Eugene Stoltzfus, a founding member of The Rosetta Stone, on the value of a liberal arts education during a 2013 edition of Virginia Insight:

“What I want is an engineer or scientist who has a liberal arts education. It goes beyond technical knowledge into critical thinking. My brother-in-law, who wrote the initial Rosetta Stone program, was fluent in two languages. His ability to understand language learning and think creatively made him a fantastic programmer. The liberal arts background of all involved made Rosetta Stone into something no one predicted. We were thinking ‘outside of the box.’ That kind of confidence is fostered by liberal arts education.”

Attend academic events

Visiting scholars are experts in their fields, focused on service for the common good. Campus staff organize academic events year-round like forums and coffeehouse discussions. Intellectual life at EMU is vibrant, full of collaboration and opportunities to grow. See upcoming events

Get the details

Students often combine majors and minors across disciplines for the best fit.

Study in another culture

Cross-culturalMore than 75% of EMU faculty have lived in a cross-cultural setting, most for decades. That experience and insight informs their leadership and teaching in the classroom and when around the world.

Majors are built around a core liberal arts curriculum. Study in another culture is a requirement, and EMU’s cross-cultural program has been going strong for 30 years.

Students earn credit while living in fascinating places with local host families, connecting with nearby communities to offer service. They’re led by experienced professors who travel with their families. Alumni say it is one of the best parts about EMU!

Some travel abroad to Africa, Asia, Central America or Europe, while others choose closer locations, like a Native reservation in the American Southwest, the U.S./Mexico border, or the glaciers of Newfoundland.

Students say their cross-culturals are life-changing.

Do hands-on work with expert faculty

Another key part of the core curriculum is a focus on experiential learning, or learning in the field.

EMU faculty are Fulbright scholars, leaders in peace studies and sustainability practices, and energetic educators. You’ll have many chances to learn on the job. Be part of our thriving STEM program… or perform with world-famous musicians during our annual Bach Festival.

Pick your program

Take a moment to learn more: