Missionary Training at Bethany Global University (BGU)

Why Consider Missionary Training at BGU?

Bethany Global University (BGU) is dedicated to equipping students for a life of ministry among the least reached. Many aspiring missionaries, like Kristen* and Rick*, believe they are prepared for the mission field until they experience firsthand the challenges of cross-cultural ministry.

During their short-term trip to Southeast Asia, they quickly realized that theological training alone was not enough. They needed practical, immersive missionary training to be effective in their calling. That’s where a hands-on missionary training program, like the one at BGU, becomes essential.

BGU’s programs prepare students for the mission field by combining biblical education with real-world missionary experience. If you feel called to missions, proper training is vital to ensure you are spiritually, mentally, and practically ready.

What is Missionary Training at BGU?

Missionary training programs at BGU prepare students to engage with the world’s least-reached populations through a combination of academic learning, immersive training, and hands-on fieldwork.

BGU Offers Various Training Models:

• University Education: Earn a bachelor’s degree with a major in Intercultural Ministry Studies, Transformational Entrepreneurship in Missions, or Education in Missions.
• Global Internship: A 16-month overseas immersion program as part of the bachelor’s degree.
• Short-Term Internships: Opportunities for hands-on ministry in cross-cultural settings.

Types of Missionary Training at BGU

1. University Education with a Missions Focus

Studying at a Christian university like BGU allows students to gain theological foundations while specializing in missions. BGU offers:

• Bachelor’s Degrees in Missions: Majors in Intercultural Ministry, Transformational Entrepreneurship, and more.
• Hands-on Training: The Global Internship immerses students in long-term, on-the-ground missions work.

At BGU, mission training is integrated into the curriculum, so students graduate fully prepared to enter the field.

2. Global Internship (Immersive Training)

BGU’s Global Internship is a 16-month overseas immersion program built into its bachelor’s degree. Students live and work among unreached people groups, gaining firsthand experience in:

• Cross-cultural evangelism and discipleship
• Church planting and community outreach
• Learning a new language and adapting to foreign cultures

This hands-on missionary experience ensures students don’t just learn about missions—they live it.

3. Practical Ministry Internships

For those looking for a shorter commitment, BGU offers practical ministry internships in both domestic and international settings. These experiences help students discern if long-term missions is right for them.

Why Choose Missionary Training at BGU?

Missionary training at BGU provides several key benefits:

• Biblical and Theological Foundation – Courses in Bible, Theology, and Missions help students understand God’s heart for the nations.
• Hands-On Experience – Through the Global Internship, students practice ministry in real-world mission contexts.
• Mentorship and Coaching – Experienced missionary mentors guide students in their spiritual and ministry growth.
• Cross-Cultural Preparation – Students develop cultural intelligence and language-learning skills to thrive in diverse environments.
• Spiritual Formation – Daily prayer, discipleship, and worship deepen students’ personal relationship with Christ.
• Team-Based Ministry – Students gain valuable experience working in multicultural mission teams.

Choosing the Right Missionary Training Program

When considering a missionary training program, here are some key factors to look for:

• A Focus on Unreached People Groups – BGU’s mission is to take the church where it is not—training students to reach the least-reached populations.
• Family-Friendly Missionary Training – BGU’s programs provide support for married students and families preparing for missionary work.
• Language Learning – Some programs include language training, equipping students for cross-cultural ministry.
• Program Effectiveness – Ask: How many graduates actually go into long-term missions? At BGU, the goal is to field missionaries globally.

The Next Step: Enroll in BGU’s Missionary Training

If you feel called to missions, Bethany Global University is one of the best places to prepare.

Whether you pursue a full bachelor’s degree, a Global Internship, or a short-term internship, BGU will equip you with the biblical knowledge, ministry experience, and cross-cultural skills necessary for fulfilling the Great Commission.

Want to learn more? Contact BGU’s admissions team today and take the next step toward your missionary calling!