New academic programs reflect Bethel’s mission to equip students for lives of purpose

With the start of the fall semester, Bethel University is launching several new undergraduate academic programs—including majors, minors, and endorsements—that reflect both student interests and evolving workforce demands. These offerings are designed to support career readiness, faith integration, and academic excellence; building on Bethel’s legacy of preparing students to lead with purpose in a complex world. 

“Bethel faculty continue to be innovative and attuned to the needs in our communities as they develop new majors, minors and endorsements,” says Robin Rylaarsdam, PhD., university provost. “Our new majors connect social sciences with service to people, and our new minors and endorsements address key areas where education can set up our graduates well as they leave Bethel and enter into their vocations.” 

New undergraduate majors

Elementary and special education integrated major

This dual-licensure program equips you to teach in both general education and special education settings, expanding your versatility in the classroom. You’ll gain hands-on experience, a strong foundation in instructional strategies, and the skills to support diverse learners. Graduates are prepared to serve as elementary teachers, special education teachers, intervention specialists, or educational advocates in a wide range of educational environments.

Speech-language pathology major and minor

In Bethel’s Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology major, you’ll build a strong foundation and gain skills to assess and treat individuals with communication and swallowing disorders. While a graduate degree is required to become a licensed speech-language pathologist, this undergraduate program prepares you for competitive entry into graduate school and can also open doors to entry-level roles in schools and clinics such as speech-language pathology assistant (where permitted), communication aide, or therapy support staff.

Students may also choose the speech-language pathology minor, which offers a solid introduction to the field. The minor complements majors in education, psychology, or healthcare and equips you to serve as a speech therapy assistant, early childhood specialist, or rehabilitation aide.

Psychological sciences major with marriage and family therapy emphasis

This unique emphasis—a new track within a long-established Bethel major—provides the knowledge, empathy, and clinical tools needed for meaningful work in mental health. You’ll begin with foundational coursework in psychological theory, development, and research before moving into graduate-level material in counseling and family dynamics. The program prepares students for graduate study in counseling or family therapy, and for roles such as case manager, behavioral health assistant, or social services professional.

Psychological sciences B.S. 

Bethel’s psychology program has transitioned to a Bachelor of Science in Psychological Sciences to reflect its enhanced focus on research, statistics, and scientific inquiry. This update aligns with our commitment to academic excellence and better prepares students for graduate study and career success in mental and behavioral health fields. You’ll study the complexities of human behavior while integrating Christian perspectives into your learning. With opportunities for research, internships, and real-world application, you’ll graduate prepared for graduate study or entry-level roles such as research assistant, behavioral health technician, or case manager in mental and behavioral health settings.

New undergraduate minors 

Environmental studies minor

No matter your major, an environmental studies minor equips you to engage in meaningful conversations about sustainability and creation care. You’ll explore topics like biology, environmental ethics, and conservation strategies through a Christian lens. This minor supports pathways into graduate programs and careers as an environmental educator, conservation analyst, sustainability coordinator, or nonprofit leader.

Missional ministries minor

The missional ministries minor fosters spiritual growth and practical skills for ministry across vocational and cultural contexts. Rooted in the Department of Biblical and Theological Studies, as a missional ministries minor, you’ll engage with Scripture, develop a flexible plan of study, and participate in a vibrant faith community. Whether you’re called to church leadership or global missions, this program prepares you to serve as a missionary, pastor, church planter, or nonprofit leader.

Psychological trauma minor

The psychological trauma minor equips you with a trauma-informed lens for work in education, healthcare, ministry, and more. You’ll study how trauma affects behavior, emotion, and development—and gain skills to respond with empathy and effectiveness. This program prepares you for roles such as teacher, ministry leader, youth worker, or support staff in first response and mental health settings. Graduate study is required for roles such as trauma counselor.

New academic endorsements

Complex number methods endorsement

This specialized math endorsement strengthens analytical skills for students interested in technical fields. You’ll explore applications of complex numbers in physics, engineering, and mathematics—including topics like quantum theory, electromagnetism, and abstract algebra. The endorsement enhances graduate school preparation and supports careers as an engineer, mathematician, software developer, or data analyst.

Human anatomy endorsement

With the human anatomy endorsement, you’ll build foundational knowledge in human biology and prepare for pre-health pathways. This endorsement supports future roles as a physician assistant, physical therapist, occupational therapist, or athletic trainer—or it can build and showcase specific knowledge of human physiology for careers in healthcare, science education, and more.

Explore new academic pathways at Bethel. 

Discover majors, minors, and endorsements designed to help you become who you’re called to be.

Learn more