Why Attend Bethel?

Higher learning that's transformational—that's the Bethel University difference. We’re not only an academically rigorous university, we’re also a Christian community where faculty, coaches, staff, and students push one another to become better scholars, leaders, and servants in our communities.

The following will describe more about the distinct advantages of Bethel, for all of our students.

For Undergraduate Students

Timely graduation. Among colleges classified as “Competitive” by Barron’s, Bethel ranks first in the Midwest and fifth in the nation at graduating students within 5 years (American Enterprise Institute 2009). Finishing on time helps our students land jobs earlier and costs them less tuition overall.

Respected degrees. Our 88 majors give students options—and they stand up to similar programs at competing universities. Renowned Bethel faculty hold graduate degrees from schools like Yale, Harvard, and Purdue—only they’re Christ-followers and scholars who live to teach. And they know their students by name.

Spiritual and personal growth. Among Christian colleges, Bethel is known for its balance of supporting students and challenging them. We encourage tough questions and explore issues so students can make their faith real. But we have fun at the same time. Students jump into Bethel’s active campus life from their first day on campus—and 9 out 10 of seniors surveyed say they’d come here all over again (National Survey of Student Engagement 2008).

For Adult Undergraduate Students

Job preparation. Our practical degrees programs in business management, Christian ministries, human resource management, and nursing get graduates into career fields. And we give credit for previous relevant work or life experience. First-time college students can get their start with an associate degree in general studies, applicable toward any bachelor’s program at Bethel.

Whole-person growth. Teaching from a Christian worldview, our faculty help students grow in character and critical thinking as well as in skills. Returning to school at Bethel is truly a life-changing experience.

Convenience. Evening and Online classes in locations around the Twin Cities help students strike a balance among work, family, church responsibilities, and their education. 

For Graduate Students

Career-enhancing programs. Our graduate programs are an outstanding academic resource for  professionals in the greater Twin Cities community. Whether our students are enrolled in counseling or the MBA program, they’re all gaining skills to grow in their fields and improve their workplaces.

Emphasis on ethics. We're focused on developing well-rounded, whole leaders. Working from Christian values and firsthand professional experience, Bethel professors nurture the critical thinking and character so essential to responsible leadership.

Flexibility. Our programs are all designed for working professionals. Most courses offer a hybrid of online and classroom sessions held evenings or Online in a number of locations

For Seminary Students

Accredited, evangelical programs. Among the 20 largest seminaries in the Associated Theological Schools (ATS), we offer relevant seminary programs at campuses in St. Paul and San Diego. Plus, our online programs enables students to earn their degree while serving in ministry through online courses and weeklong intensives.

Cultural relevance. Whatever the ministry, however non-traditional, we have a program to match. Known for innovation, our programs are built to address the needs of those serving cross-culturally, in urban neighborhoods, in rural areas, in health care, in global organizations, with youth, with senior citizens, and more.