Acceptance Rate
39%
Avg. SAT
1180
75th percentile
“Small Lutheran college in Mankato where faith weaves through classes and daily life in a close community of under 900 students.”
Mankato, MN
Location
Small City
Campus Setting
Bethany Lutheran College opened in 1927 under the Evangelical Lutheran Synod, starting as a preparatory school before evolving into a four-year liberal arts institution with a strong Christian foundation. Students who thrive here seek a faith-centered education, personal attention from professors, and a supportive environment that emphasizes moral development alongside academics. The campus sits in Mankato, a midsize Minnesota city of about 45,000 along the Minnesota River, offering easy access to urban amenities while feeling tucked away on wooded bluffs. This setup suits students who prefer small-scale living over big-city bustle, though the region's harsh winters demand serious preparation for snow and cold.
Photo Gallery
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Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Policy
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Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Degree Levels Offered
Classes stay small, often under 20 students, fostering direct interaction with faculty who integrate Lutheran perspectives into subjects like business, nursing, education, and music. You'll discuss ideas around a seminar table rather than in massive lecture halls, with required Bible courses grounding the liberal arts core. Programs in teacher preparation and vocal music stand out, preparing graduates directly for classrooms and church choirs. Research opportunities remain limited compared to larger schools, and popular majors like nursing fill quickly, so early declaration helps secure spots.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
856 undergrad • 43 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
69%
Black / African American
3%
Hispanic / Latino
7%
Asian
1%
Other / Multi-racial
20%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
Mankato, MN
Varsity Athletics
NCAA Athletics
Campus life revolves around chapel services, fellowship groups, and varsity sports in the NAIA Upper Midwest Athletic Conference, where Vikings teams draw spirited crowds. Most undergraduates live on campus in traditional dorms, building bonds through floor events and all-campus meals. A typical week mixes classes, Bible study, rehearsals or practices, and weekend outings to Mankato's river trails or downtown shops. Social scenes stay tame and values-driven, which appeals to some but might feel quiet for students craving big parties; the nearby larger Minnesota State University adds off-campus options without dominating.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
Upper Midwest Athletic Conference
ROTC & Veteran Support
Army
Yes
Navy
No
Air Force
No
Veteran’s Programs Available
Yellow Ribbon Program (Post-9/11 GI Bill)
Yes
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Cost & Aid
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Room & Board
Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
Students Receiving Aid
Receiving Pell Grants
Average Grant
Average Federal Loan
Net Annual Cost by Household Income
Household Income
Avg. Net Cost
$0 – $30K
$12,235
$30K – $48K
$9,367
$48K – $75K
$13,810
$75K – $110K
$18,358
$110K+
$22,989
Apply for Financial Aid
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Costs shown are before financial aid. Most students receive some form of aid. Complete the FAFSA to see what you qualify for.
Outcomes & Earnings
Retention Rate
72%
4 Years Graduation Rate
50%
6 Years Graduation Rate
60%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$46,110
72% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at Bethany Lutheran College and return in the fall. 50% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 60% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
50%
4-6 years
10%
Non-grad
40%
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Key Statistics
Type
Private
Tuition
$28,330
Acceptance
39%
Undergrads
856
4-Year Grad Rate
50%
Endowment
$52M
Mankato, MN 56001
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