Developing whole leaders who are prepared to serve wherever they’re called.

Today, Bethel Seminary—a school of Bethel University—is among the 15 largest accredited seminaries in the United States. Nearly 1,400 seminary students are enrolled through our campuses in St. Paul and San Diego.  Why do they choose Bethel? We think it has something to do with our focus on developing whole leaders who are prepared to serve wherever they’re called.

Programs and Affiliation
Our academic programs allow students to pursue their passion for ministry. Through master’s, doctorate, and certificate programs, students can choose a deeper emphasis of study ranging from youth ministry, to pastoral care, to urban community leadership.

Mission and Doctrine
Our passion is to advance the gospel of Jesus Christ among all people in culturally sensitive ways. As a Spirit-empowered, biblically grounded community, Bethel strives to develop and equip whole and holy persons to serve and lead, so that churches and ministry agencies can become all they are called to be and do all they are called to do in the world, for the glory of God.

We are orthodox and evangelical, with roots in pietism—guided by a high view of Scripture and a focus on obedient, personal faith. We’re also characterized by an irenic spirit—united on core doctrines but tolerant of differing evangelical viewpoints on lesser issues.

Three-Centers Approach
Through a philosophy we call the three centers, we prepare well-rounded ministry leaders. All programs focus equally on helping students acquire:

• Sound biblical/theological foundation
• Leadership strength
• Strong personal/spiritual character

This transformational philosophy develops graduates with better potential for enduring success in ministry.

Degrees Available

Distance Learning Options:
MDiv, MA Children’s and Family Ministry, Christian Thought, Ministry Practice, and Transformational Leadership

Residential St. Paul:
MDiv, MA Christian Thought, Marriage and Family Therapy, Ministry Practice, Theological Studies

Residential San Diego:
MDiv, MA Ministry Practice, Marital and Family Therapy, Mental Health Counseling and Theological Studies

Degrees Awarded: Master of Arts, Master of Divinity, Doctor of Ministry, Certificate Program, Master of Theological Studies

Primary University/School Denomination: Baptist