Bethany College

Bethany College traces its roots to 1840, when Alexander Campbell, a leader in the Disciples of Christ movement, established it as one of the first coeducational colleges west of the Appalachians. Nestled in the tiny village of Bethany, West Virginia, the campus occupies rolling 83 acres near the Ohio border, about 10 miles from Wheeling. Students who thrive here seek individualized attention in a family-like setting, where professors know your name and classmates become lifelong friends. The school's personality reflects its religious heritage through chapel services and ethical discussions, without mandating faith practices. You'll find a rural pace that fosters reflection, but tradeoffs include isolation from urban amenities and a limited social pool due to the 500-student size.