Discover Bethel’s New Online Education Program: Empowering Learning While Honoring Our Core Values

Bethel College has come a long way since its founding 138 years ago. Today, it offers something new and exciting: Workforce Development Certificates (WDCs). Launched in late January, these certificates align perfectly with the college’s mission of empowering individuals through education.

WDCs are online, non-credit programs designed for specific career skills. They are more focused than traditional degrees and can be completed in just a few weeks or months. Bethel President Jon C. Gering describes them as “licenses” aimed at helping people enter the job market or enhance their current skills. For someone with a degree in Health and Human Performance, for instance, a WDC in Personal Training and Nutrition Coaching can be a great supplement.

These certificates not only boost skills but can also improve job prospects. Gering points out that having a WDC can lead to better hiring chances and higher salaries.

As of January 23, 2025, Bethel offers 36 different WDCs across seven fields, including:

• Health Care (e.g., Assisted Living Technician)
• Technology (e.g., AI Engineer)
• Business (e.g., LEED Green Associate)
• Management and Leadership (e.g., Professional in Human Resources [PHR®])
• Cybersecurity (e.g., Certified Information Systems Security Professional [CISSP®])
• Cloud Computing (e.g., MS Azure Fundamentals)
• Advanced Manufacturing (e.g., Aerospace Structures Technician)

These programs were developed based on research by Core Education, which identified the skill gaps in the Kansas job market. Core also takes care of enrollment inquiries and connects interested candidates with Bethel’s admissions team.

Pam Tieszen, Bethel’s vice president for institutional advancement, mentioned that the current focus is on individual students, but the college plans to expand offerings for businesses soon. This means more opportunities for teams to enhance their skills through WDCs.

Interestingly, while these initial certificates are not taught by Bethel faculty, there’s potential for future integration into existing courses. Faculty might even adapt a WDC into a full credit course down the line.

Gering highlighted several benefits of WDCs. They support individuals in their careers and align with Bethel’s commitment to promoting growth. He added that these programs also raise the college’s visibility and can generate additional revenue.

Bethel College, founded in 1887, is rooted in Mennonite values like community and perseverance. The flexibility of WDCs allows for education beyond the traditional classroom setting, fitting well into people’s busy lives.

Reflecting on the essence of learning, Gering quoted the ancient Greeks, who believed in three key activities: thinking, making, and doing. These principles resonate with Bethel’s mission to provide practical career experiences that lead to meaningful lives.

As the oldest Mennonite college in North America, Bethel is dedicated to innovative education that adapts to the needs of its students and the community. For more information, visit www.bethelks.edu.