Manchester University launches pathway to Bethany Theological Seminary
North Manchester, IN (04/21/2025) — In partnership with Bethany Theological Seminary, located in Richmond, Ind., Manchester University will begin offering undergraduate students the opportunity to enroll in graduate courses through Bethany.
The initiative allows students to earn both a bachelor's degree from a Brethren-related college or university and a master's degree or graduate certificate from Bethany during a four-to-five-year timeframe, at no additional cost for the graduate courses.
"With Bethany's technology classrooms, Manchester students will be able to participate fully in these courses with students in Richmond, across the country, and internationally, all without needing to travel," said Steven Schweitzer, academic dean and professor at Bethany. "We are pleased to pilot this new initiative beginning in Fall 2025 with Manchester and to strengthen what has been a long-standing relationship between our two schools."
This initiative is a result of several years of conversation between Manchester's Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies and Bethany Theological Seminary. Last year, philosophy and religious studies faculty approached Bethany about creating pathways for students interested in theological studies, and this opportunity was developed in response. MU is the first institution to join this partnership and will pilot the program come fall.
"Our collaboration with Bethany is a bold step toward making advanced education more accessible for students, empowering them to deepen both their academic and spiritual growth," said Stacy Young, president of Manchester University. "I'm confident that this partnership will provide a transformative educational experience that will further equip our students to improve the human condition."
Manchester University is one of six colleges and universities across the United States grounded in the values and traditions of the Church of the Brethren, and welcomes persons of all faith traditions and provides opportunities to explore, develop and nurture faith in an environment that respects the infinite worth of every person.
Bethany Theological Seminary offers five master's degrees and eight graduate certificates. The Seminary provides a pathway for students to earn graduate degrees without additional student or consumer debt. As an innovative learning community grounded in an Anabaptist and Radical Pietist witness, Bethany Theological Seminary empowers every student to lead through spiritual engagement, faith-filled thought and transformative practice so that the world flourishes. Learn more here.
For the media
Contact Katy Gray Brown, professor of peace studies and philosophy, at klgraybrown@manchester.edu.
Manchester University, with campuses in North Manchester and Fort Wayne, Ind., provides vibrant and transformative student experiences. Learn more at www.manchester.edu/about-manchester.
Manchester University respects the infinite worth of every individual and graduates persons of ability and conviction who draw upon their education and faith to lead principled, productive, and compassionate lives that improve the human condition.
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Chloe Leckrone, cnleckrone@manchester.eduShare this Story
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