Bethel University

Private · Moderately Selective · IN

School data & stats

TypePrivate

LocationIN · Midwest

SettingUrban

Undergrads1,008

Student:faculty12:1

Outcomes

4-yr grad rate41.4%

6-yr grad rate53.2%

Drop-out rate27.6%

Study abroad—

Cost

In-state tuition$35k

Out-of-state tuition$35k

Application fee—

Community

Racial diversity33.8%

Gender diversity56.1%

International10%

IdentityMissionary Church Inc

Overview

Bethel University is a private Christian university in Mishawaka, Indiana, affiliated with the Missionary Church denomination, in the South Bend metro area near Notre Dame. It serves students who expect an explicitly faith-integrated education, with chapel and faith commitments woven into campus life rather than set apart from it. The school is small enough that most students and faculty know each other, and it draws heavily from Midwest evangelical church and homeschool networks.

Academics

Nursing and education are Bethel's strongest and most recognized programs, both with solid regional reputations and clinical or field placements through the South Bend area's hospitals and schools. Business and ministry-related majors round out the catalog. Class sizes stay small across the board, and a Christian worldview is built explicitly into general-education coursework rather than confined to a religion department.

Campus & student life

Chapel attendance and faith-based programming are central to campus rhythm, not an add-on. Athletics compete at the NAIA level, and Greek life plays little role, with social life instead centered on church-affiliated clubs, chapel small groups, and campus ministry events. The Mishawaka location puts South Bend's amenities and Notre Dame's campus within easy reach.

Getting in

Admissions weighs character and faith commitment alongside academics rather than acting as a pure test-score filter, and many applicants arrive already recommended through pastors or Christian schools familiar with the university.

Worth knowing

Faith integration at Bethel is not optional or peripheral: chapel requirements and a campus lifestyle covenant apply to every student. That suits students seeking an explicitly Christian environment and is a poor fit for those who aren't looking for one.

betheluniversity.edu ↗

Admissions

Acceptance rate97.7%

Enrolled mid-50%SAT 900–1150 · ACT 16–24

Test policyoptional

Rec letters0

Deadlines (2026–27 cycle)

AdmissionRolling

Applying