Bethany, a small college of national distinction, was founded March 2, 1840, by Alexander Campbell, who provided the land and funds for the first building and served as the first president. Now entering its 182nd year, Bethany College is a highly contemporary institution based in the tradition of the liberal arts .
The College offers a wide array of studies, awarding bachelor of science and bachelor of arts degrees in more than 25 fields of study, many with options for emphasis . Students also may include one or more minors as part of their program . The College also offers a Masters of Arts in Teaching.
The College’s program of liberal arts education prepares students for a lifetime of work and a life of significance. Bethany places particular emphasis on leadership and incorporates pre-professional education in dentistry, engineering, law, medicine, physical therapy, public administration, theology, and veterinary medicine .
Bethany’s 1,300-acre campus is located in the northern panhandle of West Virginia in the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains . Pittsburgh is 39 miles to the northeast . A half-hour drive from the College are Wheeling, West Virginia; Washington, Pennsylvania; and Steubenville, Ohio .
Since its inception Bethany has been a private liberal arts college affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). This religious body, of which Campbell was one of the principal founders, continues to support and encourage the College, although it exercises no sectarian control . Students from virtually every religious community attend Bethany .