As a seminary of one of the three historic peace churches (Brethren, Friends, and Mennonites), Bethany features peace studies as a prominent part of its program. Peace-related courses cover topics ranging from non-violence and the biblical story, to peace witness in the Anabaptist tradition, to mediating conflict in families and churches, to peacemaking in national and international arenas.

Undergirding the peace studies program is the Baker Peace Fund, a generous endowment provided by John and Elizabeth Baker, lifelong patrons of peace concerns. Resources generated by the Baker Peace Fund support both a faculty director and student coordinator for the program. These funds also bring noted peace leaders to the campus, and enable students and faculty to participate in workshops, conferences, and study tours which foster awareness of peace issues and develop peacemaking skills.

Each student at Bethany takes at least one course in the area of peace studies, and many students join in a weekly peace studies forum. Students with a special interest and/or experience in peace concerns may elect to add a peace studies emphasis to their M.Div. or M.A.Th. program. Students choosing this option pursue additional course work in peace studies and fulfill certain co-curricular requirements. At the completion of the program, the peace studies emphasis is listed on the student's final transcript and diploma.

From its inception, the peace studies program has emphasized reflection on the biblical, theological, ethical, and historical roots of peace ministries more than preparation for specific professions. Graduates utilize competencies in peace studies in relation to ministries both within and beyond the institutions of the church.