It was founded by Alexander Campbell, a minister in the Restoration Movement who provided the land and funds for the first building and served as the first president.

Bethany has been a four-year private liberal arts college affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ),[3] since its inception.

[4] This religious body, of which Campbell was one of the principal founders, continues to support and encourage the college but exercises no sectarian control.

[11] According to recent research, 95% of Bethany College graduates carry student loan debt, averaging $25,704.

The school has Men's teams for baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, lacrosse, soccer, swimming & diving, track & field and volleyball.

Women's teams include many of the same sports as Men's, with the addition of acrobatics & tumbling, softball, wrestling and equestrian club.