Bethlehem College & Seminary logo

Bethlehem College & Seminary

Grad Rate
58.3%
Enrollment
92
Tuition
$7,144
Median Salary
$0
Overall Grade
C
B-
Academics
A-
Value
C
Admissions
C
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Bethlehem College & Seminary offers an intensely focused, intimate academic community where students are deeply committed to theological study and classical Christian education. The urban campus feels like a tight-knit intellectual monastery embedded within the vibrant city of Minneapolis, fostering rigorous debate and spiritual formation over typical collegiate social scenes.

Academics & Majors

The college is renowned for its rigorous Great Books curriculum and deep commitment to Reformed theological training, with small class sizes ensuring personalized, Socratic teaching from dedicated faculty. While research opportunities are more limited compared to large universities, students engage in profound primary source analysis and independent scholarly projects under close mentorship.

Popular Majors

Theology
94.7%
Multidisciplinary Studies
5.3%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

58.3%
Graduation Rate
100%
Retention Rate
92
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$7,144
In-state tuition/year
0%
Receive Pell Grants
0%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Minneapolis

Minneapolis offers a rich cultural backdrop with world-class museums like the Walker Art Center, diverse food scenes in neighborhoods like Northeast, and extensive park systems for biking and lakeside activities. Students can explore the vibrant theater district, attend concerts, or enjoy the city's famous coffee shops and bookstores, all accessible via public transit.

Local Rent Check

$1,327 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Minneapolis
Explore Minneapolis

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$28,576
$0Est. 4 Years: $28,576

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($0):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus is located in a generally safe, well-lit urban area of Minneapolis with standard campus security measures in place. Students should practice typical city awareness, but the neighborhood is known for being family-friendly and secure.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Extremely low tuition makes it financially accessible for all students
  • 100% retention rate indicates high student satisfaction and community fit
  • Intimate class sizes foster deep mentorship and personalized learning
  • Strong focus on classical liberal arts and theology provides a unique rigorous education

Cons

  • Very small enrollment limits social diversity and campus activities
  • Niche focus may not suit students exploring broader career paths
  • Urban setting requires comfort with city living and commuting

Notable Alumni

John Piper
Renowned theologian, author, and founder of Desiring God, who served as pastor for many years and has influenced global evangelical thought.
David Mathis
Executive editor at Desiring God and respected author on Christian spirituality and theology, contributing to widespread theological education.
Marshall Segal
Author and writer focused on relationships and faith, known for his work with youth and young adults in the church.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is known for its rigorous classical Christian education, emphasizing the Great Books, theology, and a Reformed theological perspective. The college integrates faith and learning in a small, intimate setting focused on training leaders for church and ministry.

With an enrollment of only 92 students, the college is highly selective, focusing on applicants who align with its mission. While specific acceptance rates aren't published, the small size means admissions are competitive for those who demonstrate a strong fit in theological interests and academic commitment.

Campus life is centered on academics, spiritual formation, and close-knit community rather than Greek life or large sports events. Students engage in small-group discussions, chapel services, and intellectual fellowship within an urban Minneapolis environment, fostering deep relationships.

Yes, with tuition at just $7,144 for all students—far below the national average for private colleges—it offers outstanding value. The 58.3% graduation rate and 100% retention suggest strong student outcomes, and the low cost minimizes debt, making it a smart investment for those pursuing theology or related fields.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Desiring God Ministries Bethlehem Baptist Church Various Christian churches and seminaries Non-profit religious organizations Educational institutions focused on theology
Smart Start Score
50

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 115
  • In-State Tuition $7,144
  • Zip Code 55415

Gender Ratio

♂ 59.8% ♀ 40.2%

The Money Talk

With tuition at a flat rate of $7,144 for all students, Bethlehem College & Seminary presents an exceptional financial value, especially compared to private institutions with five-figure costs. The investment is particularly worthwhile for those pursuing ministry or theological careers, where the low debt burden allows for greater flexibility in often lower-paying fields.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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📍 Campus Location

📅 Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1–15
Regular Decision Jan 1–15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines →

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

🧮 Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $7,144
Housing (12 mo) $15,924
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $30,268
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.