Bethel University is a leader in Christ-centered higher education with more than 4,500 students from 50 states and 10 countries enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, seminary, and adult education programs. Based in St. Paul, Minnesota, Bethel offers bachelor’s and advanced degrees in nearly 100 fields. Educationally excellent classroom-based and online programs equip graduates to make exceptional contributions in lifelong service to God and the world.
Bethel University offers its academic programs through multiple divisions:
College of Adult & Professional Studies
For more than 25 years, the College of Adult & Professional Studies has helped adults beginning or returning to school to earn their bachelor’s or associate’s degree. Bethel’s academic programs are accessible and supportive for busy students and grounded in ethics and personal development. The school offers 6 bachelor’s degree-completion programs taught from a Christian worldview in the areas of business, healthcare and human services, psychology, special education, and Christian ministries, along with two associate degree programs and two certificate programs. Nearly 500 students are enrolled in the Twin Cities or online.
Graduate School
The Graduate School provides rigorous graduate education in a supportive Christian environment. Our adult students come from many backgrounds, experience levels, and career fields with the common goal of developing as whole professionals. Specialties include relevant degree programs in business and leadership, health and human services, and education. The school offers nine master’s programs, two doctoral degree options, and numerous certificates and licenses. Courses are taught by experienced full-time faculty or working professionals, whose recent experience focuses on principles that students can apply directly to their careers. Class schedules are convenient for working adults.
College of Arts & Sciences
The College of Arts & Sciences (CAS) is Bethel’s undergraduate college for more than 2,400 recent high school graduates and transfer students. This school takes a whole-person approach to education—encouraging each person to achieve academic goals, grow deeper in faith, and engage in a lively community, all with Christ at the center. Distinctives include more than 80 majors in inviting fields—such as the arts, humanities, business, natural sciences, and social sciences—small class sizes, and a robust study abroad program. Highly credentialed faculty are dedicated to teaching, integration of faith and learning, and the translation of Christian belief into global service. The college consistently ranks among top Midwestern universities in many college rankings.
Bethel Seminary
Bethel Seminary, a school of Bethel University, was founded in 1871. Today, it is among the 20 largest accredited seminaries in the U.S., serving students on campus in St. Paul, with five residential master's degree programs and two certificates; and online, through six master's degree programs, a doctor of ministry program, and two certificates. Programs focus on many aspects of ministry preparation, including leadership, marriage and family therapy, and ministry practice. Bethel Seminary is orthodox and evangelical, with roots in pietism, and characterized by an irenic spirit. Our passion is to prepare men and women who will lead with excellence and advance the gospel of Jesus Christ among all people in culturally sensitive ways.
Center for Access and Integration
The Center for Access and Integration houses Bethel’s BUILD program. The BUILD program, an integrated two-year postsecondary, residential program for students with intellectual disabilities, provides opportunities for inclusive academic, vocational, residential, spiritual, and social learning experiences. Students who complete the requirements of the BUILD program, including a selected career pathway in Arts and Communication, Business, or Human Services, earn a Certificate in Applied Studies. The program incorporates the skills and education necessary to live more independently, maintain meaningful employment, and value lifelong learning. Students in the BUILD program contribute their own diverse experiences and strengths to the Bethel community.