What is BU@OCC
BU@OCC is a program based out of Orchards Community Church that offers a two or four year college education. It combines the strengths of Bethel University and Orchards Community Church. Those seeking a degree will benefit from Bethel University’s strong academics while being immersed in the leadership culture of Orchards. Students will receive practical ministry experience in a learning environment that promotes spiritual growth.
What will my experience at BU@OCC look like?
As a BU@OCC student, you’ll come to the Orchards each week to follow your personal block schedule with intentional time dedicated for:
- Devotional Time
- Accredited Bethel University classes, both online and in-person
- Practical experiences through internships, practicums or field experiences
- Student development activities
- Chapel
- Small groups
- Community life activities
Monthly outreach experiences
How does the schedule work?
The BU@OCC program follows a weekly block schedule layout. This layout gives you the ability to make your own flexible, pre-selected schedule for each 7-weeks of classes. Included in the calendar rhythms are weekly Chapels, Life Groups, designated morning Devotional times, and monthly outreaches on Saturday mornings.
BU@OCC Staff
Parker Hossler is the BU@OCC site director, who you will see weekly. He’ll be a supportive presence and provide leadership throughout your time with BU@OCC. You’ll also see other OCC staff, as they help guide your daily activities, answer your questions, and give you support and encouragement. Parker and the whole OCC staff can’t wait to welcome you as a student and journey with you through your college experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are a recent or soon-to-be high school graduate who wants a low- or no-debt college path that will give you an accredited degree AND one-on-one biblically-based leadership development, this program is for you. If you want intentional guidance that will help you grow in your relationship with the Lord, grow in community, grow in your purpose, grow in your strengths and give you confidence about your life after college, apply today or schedule a campus visit.
Yes, this program partners with Bethel University. Bethel University is a fully accredited institution authorized to award associate, bachelor, and master’s degrees.
BU@NMC enables enrolled students to pay for their college experience using federal financial aid. To know if you are eligible for such funding, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.studentaid.gov and maintain 12 credit hours each semester.
Many scholarships received from organizations outside of Bethel University can be applied to the cost of your education.
Bethel University will assist you in understanding all of your financial options.
$10,500 is the total cost for one year of tuition and fees at BU@CW. The price is based on 15 credits per semester, including 3 practicum hours. The cost will increase if the student registers for additional credits.
*For those eligible for the Pell Grant and Michigan State Grant, the out-of-pocket cost is substantially reduced.
Yes, although each school varies in what they will or will not accept, most general classes will transfer in or transfer out to other schools.
Bethel University will provide online courses for students, meaning you will be taught by BU professors.
There are both two-year associate degrees and four-year bachelor degrees available from Bethel University. Both degrees offer valuable life experience, leadership development, and ministry training from serving at Orchards Community Church.
Yes. Each student will have the opportunity to focus their ministry experience in either Kid Ministry, Student Ministry, Adult Ministry, Worship Ministry, Care Ministry, or Business.
Unfortunately, housing is not available through the BU@OCC program at this time. We hope to be able to offer that option in the future.
Students are admitted in either the fall (classes begin in August) or spring (classes begin in January) semesters.
