
325 Cherry Avenue, McKenzie, TN 38201, USA


Bethel University-Tennessee was founded in 1842, originally established as Bethel Seminary. Its inception was driven by the desire to provide higher education opportunities within a Christian framework, aligning with the values of its founding community. Over the years, the institution evolved from a seminary into a comprehensive university, expanding its academic offerings beyond religious studies to include a wider range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
The university has undergone several transformations reflecting broader educational trends and the needs of its student body. As it matured, it embraced a curriculum designed to balance liberal arts education with professional preparation, aiming to equip students for various careers while fostering critical thinking and ethical decision-making.
Throughout its history, Bethel University-Tennessee has maintained a commitment to community engagement and student development, which has shaped its identity as an institution focused on both academic rigor and personal growth. Its evolution from a small seminary to a full university indicates a responsiveness to changing educational demands and a steady growth in its role within the region's higher education landscape.
Bethel University-Tennessee offers a diverse range of academic faculties and departments designed to accommodate various interests and career goals of prospective students. The university provides comprehensive programs primarily through its School of Arts and Sciences, which encompasses departments such as Biology, Business, Communication, and Psychology. These departments emphasize both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, aiming to prepare students for professional success and further academic pursuits.
Within the School of Education, students can pursue degrees that focus on preparing educators for different levels and specializations. The programs cover essential pedagogical theories and practical classroom experience to equip future teachers with the skills needed for effective instruction and leadership in educational settings.
The university also features a School of Theology that offers courses and degrees centered on religious studies and ministry. This faculty supports students interested in theological scholarship and vocational ministry, providing a curriculum that blends academic study with practical application.
Additionally, Bethel University-Tennessee supports a School of Business, which includes programs designed to develop competencies in management, marketing, accounting, and other business-related fields. This school focuses on equipping students with strategic thinking and leadership skills necessary for the contemporary business environment.
For students seeking careers in healthcare or science, the university's Department of Nursing prepares graduates for clinical practice and healthcare leadership. The department emphasizes hands-on training and adherence to current healthcare standards.
Bethel University-Tennessee is situated in McKenzie, Tennessee, at 325 Cherry Avenue within the southern part of the city. McKenzie is a small city that offers a quieter, community-focused environment which can be beneficial for students seeking a more intimate college experience.
The university's location provides accessibility to Memphis International Airport, facilitating relatively easy travel for students and visitors. The local area code for McKenzie is 38201, and the city can be reached via the 352-4000 telephone exchange.
Bethel University-Tennessee aims to provide a comprehensive education that prepares students for meaningful careers and engaged citizenship. The institution emphasizes academic excellence alongside personal and professional development, fostering a learning environment where students gain critical thinking skills, ethical grounding, and practical experience.
The vision of Bethel University-Tennessee centers on nurturing well-rounded graduates who are equipped to contribute positively in their chosen fields and communities. It prioritizes an education model that integrates intellectual growth with social responsibility, encouraging students to become lifelong learners and adaptable leaders in a rapidly changing world.
Name of the institution
Bethel University-TennesseeLevel of institution
Four or more yearsControl of institution
PrivateSetting type
Town: DistantInstitutional Category
Degree - granting, primarily baccalaureate or aboveInstitution size category
1,000 - 4,999School type
Comprehensive higher education institutionMain student body
CoeducationalCalendar system
SemestersFoundation year
1842
Certificate of less than 1 year
Associate's degree
Bachelor's degree
Master's degree
Certificate of at least 1 year, but less than 2 years
Certificate of at least 2 years, but less than 4 years
Postbaccalaureate certificate
Post-master's certificate
Doctor's degree - research/scholarship
Doctor's degree - professional practice
Doctor's degree - other
Other degreeDegrees
Accounting and Related Services
Data not availableAllied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
Data not availableArts, Entertainment,and Media Management
Data not availableAudiovisual Communications Technologies/Technicians
Data not availableBiology, General
Data not availableBusiness Administration, Management and Operations
$46,354Business/Commerce, General
Data not availableChemistry
Data not availableClinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
Data not availableCriminal Justice and Corrections
$47,898Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
Data not availableEcology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
Data not availableEducation, General
Data not availableEnglish Language and Literature, General
Data not availableFine and Studio Arts
Data not availableHealth and Physical Education/Fitness
Data not availableHealth Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
Data not availableHealth/Medical Preparatory Programs
Data not availableHistory
Data not availableHomeland Security
Data not availableHuman Services, General
Data not availableLiberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
Data not availableManagement Information Systems and Services
Data not availableMathematics
Data not availableMulti/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
Data not availableMusic
Data not availablePeace Studies and Conflict Resolution
Data not availablePsychology, General
Data not availablePsychology, Other
Data not availableRegistered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
$57,927Religion/Religious Studies
Data not availableReligious/Sacred Music
Data not availableSociology
Data not availableSpecial Education and Teaching
Data not availableTeacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
Data not availableTeacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
Data not available