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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Bethel University

Mishawaka, Indiana · betheluniversity.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

97.7%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$34,600

$45,740 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

1,065

Student-faculty ratio 12:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

48.9%

4-year; 6-year rate 56.2%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Bethel University, located in St. Paul, Minnesota, is a private Christian university known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence and spiritual development. Established in 1871, Bethel is affiliated with the Converge Worldwide denomination and integrates a Christian worldview into its educational programs. The university’s mission statement, "To prepare students for a life of learning, leadership, and service," reflects its commitment to fostering a holistic educational environment. Bethel offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including business, education, and the liberal arts, all designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful careers.

The university boasts a vibrant campus life with numerous extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and community service opportunities. Bethel's athletic teams, known as the Royals, compete in the NCAA Division III, promoting a culture of teamwork and sportsmanship. Additionally, students can engage in a variety of clubs and organizations that cater to diverse interests, fostering a sense of community and belonging. The campus itself is beautifully landscaped, providing a conducive environment for study and social interaction. With a strong focus on student development and a supportive faculty, Bethel University prepares its graduates not only for careers but also for meaningful lives rooted in faith and service.

Analysis of Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Demographics

The data from Bethel University illustrates significant trends in tuition fees, graduation rates, and student demographics over the years. Notably, tuition costs have steadily increased, reaching $33,320 for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students in 2024. This represents a 33% increase since 2014. Such rising costs can be a major concern for prospective students and their families, especially considering the accumulating student debt crisis in the U.S. Higher tuition can lead to increased financial strain on students, potentially limiting access to education for lower-income families.

In parallel, the graduation rates for undergraduate students have shown some fluctuations, with the on-time graduation rate reaching 60% in 2021 before slightly declining to approximately 58% in 2023. This decline in graduation rates may reflect challenges faced by students, possibly exacerbated by the financial burdens of rising tuition. The 150% graduation rate, however, has remained relatively stable, indicating that while students may struggle to graduate on time, many do eventually complete their degrees.

Furthermore, the student demographics reveal a notable gender disparity, particularly among undergraduate students, where female students constituted approximately 60% in recent years. This shift in gender ratio can be indicative of broader societal trends in higher education, where women are increasingly outpacing men in college enrollment.

Lastly, the retention rates have shown a minor decline from 75.3% in 2013 to about 71% in 2023, which raises concerns about student satisfaction and support services at the university. The decrease in retention could be linked to the pressures of rising tuition and the accompanying financial stress, which may impact students’ ability to remain enrolled.

Overall, these trends highlight the interconnectedness of tuition fees, graduation rates, and demographic shifts, stressing the importance of addressing financial barriers to education and ensuring that all students receive the support they need to succeed.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Small city
Nearest major city
Chicago, about 80 mi
Nearest international airport
Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), about 80 mi
Mishawaka, Indiana
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Missionary Church Inc
President
Dee McDonald (President)
Phone
5748077000
City
Mishawaka, Indiana
Address
1001 Bethel Circle, Mishawaka, IN 46545-5591

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
96.8%
Women
98.2%

In 2020: men 91.8%, women 94.8%.

Data insights

Analysis of Bethel University's Admission Trends

Bethel University has experienced notable fluctuations in its admission statistics over the years, reflecting broader trends that many institutions face within higher education. The data reveals a significant increase in the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants from 2011 to 2023. For instance, the male acceptance rate surged from approximately 67.7% in 2011 to an impressive 99.03% in 2023, while the female acceptance rate rose from around 75.3% to 99.77% in the same period. This dramatic increase in acceptance rates suggests a shift in the university's admissions strategy, which may be aimed at attracting a broader range of students.
Moreover, the number of enrolled students has varied, peaking at 307 in 2020. Interestingly, the number of denied applicants saw a significant reduction in 2023, with only four denials reported. This could indicate a more inclusive approach by the university, potentially responding to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, wherein many institutions have adapted to ensure enrollment stability.
The number of deferred admissions has also been noteworthy, with peaks in several years, such as 2016 and 2019. This may reflect changing student preferences or the challenges faced by applicants during their decision-making processes.
Overall, Bethel University's admission data showcases an evolving landscape in higher education, where institutions are increasingly adopting flexible policies to accommodate the needs and circumstances of prospective students. As the university continues to adapt, it will be interesting to observe how these trends influence its reputation and competitive standing in the future.

School and Program Rankings

U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking

Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition

Nursing School#394▼9

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 59% submitted SAT, 11% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total900–1150Peer median 1158
ACT composite16–24
SAT Reading
460–580
600700800
SAT Math
440–570
600700800
ACT composite
16–24
253036

Data insights

Analysis of Bethel University's Admission Scores and Trends

Bethel University has shown some intriguing trends in its admission scores over the years, particularly regarding SAT and ACT submissions. Since 2011, there has been a notable increase in the number of students submitting SAT scores, peaking at 85% in 2020, 2021, and 2022. This indicates a growing confidence among prospective students in their standardized test performance, which may be influenced by the increasing accessibility of test preparation resources.

The score ranges for the SAT Reading and Mathematics sections have generally remained stable, with the middle 50% scoring between 480-590 in recent years. However, the 2023 data indicates a significant drop in both the number of submissions and the corresponding score range, suggesting possible challenges in the admissions landscape, potentially due to the pandemic's effects on standardized testing perceptions.

Moreover, the ACT scores present a similar trend, with a majority of admitted students scoring between 20 and 26. This trend aligns with broader national patterns where colleges and universities are increasingly recognizing the limitations of standardized testing as a sole indicator of student potential.

As institutions continue to evolve in their admissions strategies, it is crucial for Bethel University to adapt to these changes. The recent decline in score submissions may prompt a reevaluation of how the university assesses prospective students, possibly moving towards a more holistic approach that considers various facets of student achievement beyond standardized testing. This shift could enhance diversity and inclusivity within the student body, aligning with ongoing discussions in the higher education sector.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 10 in 10

985 applicants in 2025, 97.7% admitted

962 admitted 23 not admitted Yield 27.4%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate190 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's24721 international (8.5%)
Master's525 international (9.6%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
33
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
25
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
16
Elementary Education and Teaching
14
Lay Ministry
14
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
11
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
9
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other
9
Engineering, General
8
Business/Commerce, General
8

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Organizational Leadership · Master's21 (14% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's16 (13% international)
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other · Master's9 (0% international)
  • Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's3 (0% international)
  • Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other · Master's2 (0% international)
  • Theology/Theological Studies · Master's1 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Bethel University

The graduation data from Bethel University for 2023 reveals interesting trends in various academic programs. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with 36 bachelor’s degrees awarded, indicating a strong emphasis on healthcare education. This aligns with the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, a trend accelerated by the recent global health crises.

In the field of education, the data shows that while there are bachelor’s graduates in programs like Elementary Education and Teaching, the absence of international students in these categories may reflect broader immigration policies impacting international enrollment in the U.S. educational system. This is a critical observation as educational institutions strive to maintain diverse student bodies.

The Business Administration program awarded 21 master's degrees, with four of those going to international students, signaling a potential growth area for attracting international talent. This aligns with the increasing globalization of business practices, where diverse perspectives are crucial for success.

Moreover, the absence of doctoral graduates in the health and education fields suggests a gap in advanced studies, which could be an area for future development. The data also indicates that a few programs, particularly in the liberal arts and sciences, are not attracting significant numbers of graduates, which may warrant a reevaluation of the curriculum or marketing strategies to attract more students.

Overall, these statistics reflect the dynamic nature of educational demands and the importance of aligning academic offerings with market needs and global trends. The university may benefit from focusing on enhancing its appeal to international students, particularly in high-demand fields such as healthcare and business.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Businesshas 97 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Business/Commerce, General.-
Business Administration and Management, General.$46,763-$62,093
Organizational Leadership.$46,763-$62,093
Accounting.-
Financial Planning and Services.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Marketing, Other.-
Educationhas 37 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.$40,949
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$40,949
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other.$40,949
Art Teacher Education.-
English/Language Arts Teacher Education.-
Mathematics Teacher Education.-
Music Teacher Education.-
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.-
Social Studies Teacher Education.-
Health professionshas 33 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
International Public Health/International Health.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$86,633
Liberal arts has 30 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other.-
Theology has 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Missions/Missionary Studies.-
Theology/Theological Studies.-
Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other.-
Lay Ministry.$28,479
Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries, Other.$28,479
Parks, recreation, leisure has 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$35,671
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$35,671
Sports Studies.$35,671
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General.-
Biologyhas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.-
Foreign languages has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
American Sign Language (ASL).-
Sign Language Interpretation and Translation.-
Engineeringhas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Engineering, General.-
Psychology has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Psychology, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Applied Mathematics, General.-
Homeland security has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.-
Visual and Performing artshas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Graphic Design.-
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
English has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Rhetoric and Composition.-
Public administrationhas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Human Services, General.-
Computer and information sciencehas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Computer Science.-
Social sciencehas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Economics, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Communication has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.-
History has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
History, General.-
Philosophy has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Philosophy.-
Legal professionshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Pre-Law Studies.-

Students

1,167 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 44:56 · Freshman retention 72.4%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,065)

White
704 · 66.1%
Hispanic
126 · 11.8%
International
101 · 9.5%
Black
62 · 5.8%
Two or more races
51 · 4.8%
Asian
13 · 1.2%
Unknown
4 · 0.4%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
3.4%
18–19
36.8%
20–21
34.6%
22–24
13.2%
25 and over
12.0%

Graduate students

Under 22
2.0%
22–24
27.5%
25–29
12.7%
30–34
12.7%
35 and over
45.1%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Bethel University in 2023

The demographic data for Bethel University in 2023 reveals interesting trends in the composition of its student body. A total of 248 incoming freshmen were recorded, with a nearly balanced gender ratio of 50.4% male and 49.6% female. This slight male majority could reflect broader enrollment trends in higher education, where many institutions are seeing a growing female representation.

Among the continuing undergraduate students, the population of 770 exhibits a significant gender disparity, with males constituting only 37.5% and females 62.5%. This may indicate a shift in academic engagement, suggesting that female students are increasingly pursuing degrees, while male enrollment may be declining, a trend observed in various universities across the country.

The transfer student demographic also shows a similar pattern, with only 34% of the 97 transfer students being male, further emphasizing the growing participation of female students in higher education.

Graduate students at Bethel University show a more balanced gender distribution, with 41.4% males and 58.6% females among the 111 students. This may reflect the increasing diversity of fields of study at the graduate level, where traditionally male-dominated fields are becoming more inclusive.

Moreover, the data on racial and ethnic diversity within these categories remains limited for the current year, but past trends suggest a predominance of white students, alongside representation from various minority groups. This highlights the ongoing need for institutions to enhance their outreach and support for underrepresented populations to create a more inclusive educational environment.

Overall, Bethel University’s student demographic data for 2023 indicates significant trends in gender representation and suggests a need for continued attention towards diversity in enrollment strategies.

Age Composition of Bethel University Students in 2023

The age distribution of students at Bethel University in 2023 reveals interesting insights into the demographics of the campus population. A significant portion of the undergraduate population falls within the traditional college age range of 18-21, with 168 male and 274 female students aged 18-19, and 162 male and 271 female students aged 20-21. This indicates a vibrant and youthful atmosphere that is typical of many universities, as younger students often contribute to a dynamic campus culture.

However, as we look beyond the 22-24 age bracket, there is a noticeable decline in the number of students. For instance, the number of undergraduates aged 22-24 drops to 69 males and 62 females, suggesting that many students may graduate or transition to the workforce after their early twenties. This trend continues with students aged 25-29, where only 11 males and 33 females are enrolled.

Interestingly, the graduate student population presents a different narrative, with the 30-34 age group showing a healthy participation rate of 11 males and 28 females. This trend may reflect the increasing number of individuals returning to higher education later in life, seeking advanced degrees to enhance their career prospects.

The presence of older students, even in the 40-49 and 50-64 age ranges, speaks to the evolving landscape of education where lifelong learning is becoming more common. The diversity in age among students enriches the educational experience, allowing for varied perspectives and interactions within the classroom. Overall, Bethel University appears to foster an inclusive environment that accommodates a wide range of ages, promoting a culture of continuous growth and learning.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates9.5%

101 in 2025 · 0.8% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 0.8%2017: 1.2%2018: 1.7%2019: 2.6%2020: 2.7%2021: 3.6%2022: 4.6%2023: 6.4%2024: 8.6%2025: 9.5%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students25.5%

26 in 2025 · 2.2% in 2016

0% 15% 30% 2016: 2.2%2017: 2.4%2018: 1.6%2019: 1.1%2020: 2.3%2021: 4.8%2022: 5.3%2023: 8.1%2024: 5.2%2025: 25.5%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Bethel University

The data regarding international students at Bethel University reveals a notable trend over the years. Starting from 2004, the percentage of international undergraduate students has been relatively low, hovering around 1.95% to 2.67% until 2020. However, a significant shift occurred starting in 2021, where the percentage jumped to 3.60% and continued to rise, reaching an impressive 6.44% by 2023. This increase may reflect a growing global interest in Bethel University as well as enhanced recruitment efforts and support for international students.

On the graduate level, the proportion of international students also shows signs of improvement. It remained below 5% for most of the years, but by 2023, it reached 8.11%, marking a significant increase. The growth in both undergraduate and graduate programs indicates a positive trajectory for Bethel University, aligning with broader trends in higher education where universities are increasingly diversifying their student populations to enhance cultural exchange and global perspectives.

This upward trend in international student enrollment could also be linked to the global shift towards online and hybrid learning models, which have made education more accessible. Furthermore, political and economic factors, including changes in immigration policies and international relations, may also play a crucial role in shaping the demographics of university populations.

Overall, the increasing numbers of international students at Bethel University not only enrich the campus environment but also potentially enhance the university's reputation on a global scale, making it an attractive destination for prospective students worldwide.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$45,740

Undergraduate tuition
$34,600
Room and board
$11,140
Graduate tuition
$9,744
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 30% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 34%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$27.3M

Tuition and fees
$14.0M51.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$6.3M23.2%
Gifts and private grants
$5.0M18.3%
Investment return
$393K1.4%
Government grants and contracts
$68K0.2%
Other
$1.6M5.7%

Expenses$28.1M

Instruction
$10.1M35.9%
Student services
$7.8M27.8%
Institutional support
$5.1M18.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.5M12.3%
Academic support
$1.6M5.5%
Public service
$74K0.3%
Research
$6K0.0%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$57,614peers $68,006
Professor
$68,520peers $78,041
Associate professor
$59,020peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$48,992peers $63,827
Instructor
$44,160peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · NCCAA · Crossroads League

Crossroads League: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division II MENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)109116
Soccer6438
Basketball3327
Volleyball2625
Swimming2622
Tennis1619
Baseball27-
Golf1111
Softball-21
Lacrosse-19
Bowling109
Other Sports--
2024
NAIA Division IIMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)118112
Soccer5931
Basketball3027
Swimming2925
Volleyball2522
Tennis1817
Baseball24-
Softball-23
Golf1011
Lacrosse-21
Bowling810
Other Sports--
2023
NAIA Division IIMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)117110
Soccer5329
Basketball3228
Swimming2822
Volleyball2717
Tennis1717
Baseball27-
Golf1012
Softball-22
Lacrosse-21
Bowling1010
Other Sports--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable nearby universities surrounding Bethel University:

  1. University of Notre Dame: Ranked 20th in the 2024 US News rankings, this prestigious institution is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. University of Chicago: With a rank of 12, the University of Chicago is renowned for its rigorous academics and commitment to research. It has a reputation for fostering critical thinking and intellectual engagement.

  3. Northwestern University: This top-ranked university, at 9th place, offers a diverse range of programs and is known for its interdisciplinary approach to education.

  4. Saint Mary's College: Ranked 82nd, this women's college emphasizes a liberal arts education and is dedicated to empowering women through education.

  5. Kalamazoo College: With a rank of 70, Kalamazoo College is a private liberal arts college known for its strong commitment to experiential learning and study abroad programs.

  6. Purdue University-Main Campus: Ranked 43rd, Purdue is recognized for its engineering and technology programs, as well as a strong focus on research and innovation.

These schools provide a variety of academic offerings and are known for their commitment to quality education.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug referrals
77
Liquor referrals
13
Burglary
7
Robbery
1
Motor vehicle theft
1
Residence hall fires
1

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Crime Trends at Bethel University: A Closer Look

The crime data from Bethel University over the years reveals some significant trends that warrant attention. In 2013, the university recorded a relatively high crime rate of 5.09 per 1,000 students, which reflects a concerning start. However, the subsequent years saw a notable decline, with 2014 and 2017 showing the lowest rates of 2.22 and 1.46, respectively. This decrease could indicate effective measures being implemented to enhance campus safety.

Yet, the years following 2017 present a mixed picture. In 2019, the crime rate surged again to 5.95, peaking at 8.05 in 2023. This increase raises questions about what factors may have contributed to such fluctuations. The rise in 2023 is particularly alarming, suggesting a potential need for reevaluation of security protocols and preventive measures on campus.

Examining the types of crimes reported, there is a continuous presence of serious offenses such as assault and drug-related incidents. The data underscores the importance of addressing not just the occurrence of these crimes but also the underlying issues that lead to them.

Moreover, the ongoing issues of crime in college settings are not isolated to Bethel University; they reflect broader societal challenges. As institutions strive to provide safe environments for their students, collaboration with local law enforcement and community resources becomes essential.

To mitigate these rising trends, it is crucial for the university to enhance awareness campaigns and support systems that encourage a safer campus environment. By fostering a culture of vigilance and support, Bethel University can work towards reducing crime rates and ensuring the well-being of its students.

For a detailed understanding of crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Related News

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.