Living Learning Communities

At Bethel, college is more than classes and credits—it’s a community that shapes who you’re becoming. Living Learning Communities (LLCs) are unique, residential environments that bring together students who share a passion, purpose, or major. Students live, learn, and grow side by side, with access to social events, study groups, and experiences that are tailored to their interests.

LLC participation begins with an opportunity to move in early during Welcome Week, so friendships form early and students can get to know campus together. Residents will connect with faculty and staff leaders, and find built-in support throughout their first year at Bethel. By living together within a Bethel residence hall, participating in community-based learning opportunities, and taking some courses together as a cohort; students connect academically while building deep friendships and continuing their learning outside the classroom. The residence hall becomes a hub for discovery, faith, and leadership—where learning happens nonstop and personal stories truly take root.

There are three LLCs opening in fall 2025:

The Bridge

The Bridge is a first-year living learning community designed to help students build academic skills, form supportive relationships, connect with mentors, and grow spiritually while they transition to college life. 

Additional programming includes:

• Building successful academic practices and time management skills
• Developing a sense of community on campus
• Exploring ways to be involved on campus
• Connecting with faculty and support staff
• Growing spiritually and taking part in campus ministries together
• Academic and vocational planning
• Leadership development

Eligibility

This community is intended for admitted students who have zero to few college credits before beginning at Bethel. It builds nicely on the Royal Bridge summer program, but this is not a prerequisite for acceptance. As part of the application process, you’ll be asked to articulate why you’d like to be part of this community and what success in college looks like to you. 

Honors

This is a first-year living community designed for students who are intellectually curious, accomplished learners, united by a shared commitment to the greatest commandment: to love God with all their heart, soul, and mind, and to love their neighbors (Matthew 22:37-39). Drawing from a wide range of academic disciplines and perspectives, and in a collaborative community, students will explore:

• What does it mean to be a good person—and where do virtue and character come from?
• How does intellectual investigation shape our character as moral people?
• How can we use these strengths in the world? 

Students will enroll in the first year coursework of the Pietas Honors Program, taking part in spillover activities that continue the conversation and personal reflection outside the classroom. They’ll build confidence and community around shared values and the pursuit of personal, intellectual growth. 

Eligibility

This program is ideal for students in the Pietas Honors Program. As space allows, others may be accepted into the residential community. Students must be admitted to Bethel and meet at least one of the following academic requirements: 3.5 GPA, 25 ACT, and/or 1220 SAT. As part of the application process, you’ll be asked to write an essay describing a formative personal experience or how two works of art—a book (other than the Bible), film, play, concert, museum exhibit, and/or digital experience—have had a significant and transformative impact on you.

Impact

Impact is a space where first-year students can develop an integrated, holistic understanding of Christ-centered leadership and service as a first step in building their careers. Students will:

• Explore practical ways to become Christian professionals in an increasingly complex workforce
• Take part in mentoring experiences and professional networking opportunities
• Have access to industry leaders, staff, and faculty who are committed to their professional development
• Engage with a diverse community of like-minded leaders supporting their social, emotional, intercultural, and spiritual growth
• Build greater maturity and confidence as they continue at Bethel and beyond

Eligibility

This community is ideal for students who are part of Bethel’s leadership programs—The 25, Jeremiah 29, etc.—but this is not required. Students must be admitted to Bethel and have a desire to grow their leadership skills. As part of the application process, you’ll be asked to describe a time you’ve used your leadership skills, what gifts/skills you bring to the community, and your professional goals. 

How to apply

The application will open February 1 and close on May 1 for fall communities. Space is limited within the LLCs—with priority given to admitted students who will also be part of related programs (Royal Bridge, Pietas Honors Program, The 25, Jeremiah 29, etc.). Final decisions will be made and communicated to students before the June 1 roommate selection process begins.

If you have questions about LLCs, please reach out to the Office of Admissions.