About Bethel University
Affordable Christian Education in the Midwest
Founded in 1947 by a group of Missionary Church visionaries, their goal was to educate leaders to serve the world. In the seven decades that have passed since then, Bethel University has succeeded in that mission! While some things have changed on campus, we’ve continued to be intentional as we guide students along their spiritual journey and path to academic success in some key ways:
- Spiritual formation of our students is about creating a holistic approach for each student’s spiritual journey and personal discovery. That starts with being true to God and his word.
- Mentoring is a key part of the Bethel community, where students have opportunities to connect with their peers, faculty, staff and even alumni. At Bethel, students build lifelong relationships that will continue well past graduation.
- Academics in over 50 areas of study provide students with opportunities to explore, grow and prepare for their future careers. Each field of study is rich with knowledgeable professors seeking to equip students for success.
Why Bethel
Our Mission
Bethel University, affiliated with the Missionary Church, is a Christian community of learners dedicated to building lives of commitment for leadership in the church and the world. Bethel provides liberating academic and co-curricular programs to challenge the mind, enlarge the vision and equip the whole person for lifelong service.
Be True
Spiritual Formation – Spiritual Life is often referred to as the heartbeat of campus. Whether you are in chapel, the classroom, or the dorm, you’ll find opportunities to grow spiritually.
Be Blue
Mentorship & Community – Central to our mission is the shaping of our character to resemble Jesus Christ. There is a vibrant mentoring program on campus, and staff, faculty, and students all reap the benefits of these relationships.
Be You
Strong Academics – A Bethel University education gives you the added value of spiritual formation without compromising academic excellence. You can choose from more than 50 areas of study, with classes offered on our Indiana campus and online.
Our History
The roots of Bethel University run deep. Mennonite Brethren in Christ (MBC) founder Daniel Brenneman first called for a training institute in 1893. Then, for many years, J. A. Huffman pressed the case for a Christian liberal arts college, even suggesting the name Bethel, meaning “house of God.” Formal church approval finally came in 1944, and land was purchased in Mishawaka, Indiana, during 1946 under the leadership of Q. J. Everest, Seth Rohrer, and Warren Manges. Twenty-seven-year-old Woodrow I. Goodman (1947-1959) was appointed the first president, at that time the youngest in the United States.
“It’s one thing to learn things in a book. It’s another thing to experience the human body. [My cadaver internship has] really expanded my knowledge of what actually happens in surgery.”
Take the Next Step
Take the first step toward your Bethel University career. Visit campus, apply, request information or ask questions about financial aid.