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Biblical and Theological Studies Major

Bachelor of Arts

With a biblical and theological studies major, you’ll ask the important questions to discern your faith, your calling, and your impact on God’s kingdom.

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Become who you’re meant to be. While earning a B.A. in biblical and theological studies, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of the Bible, theology, and what it means to be a Christian in today’s world. You’ll also sharpen your worldview and grow in your relationship with God as you learn to teach God’s word, serve in churches, or infuse your Christian faith into a wide range of careers. Graduates often pursue seminary or advanced degrees in Bible, theology, or religion so they can continue to grow as critical thinkers and develop skills for a range of career options.

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☰ In This Section

Why should I study biblical and theological studies at Bethel?

Here, you’ll find a Christ-centered learning community where you belong. Your learning will center in the Department of Biblical and Theological Studies, where you’ll learn from professors who get to know you personally and will invest in your success. You’ll experience:

Faith-fueled learning
Beyond biblical knowledge, you’ll experience deep spiritual and personal transformation as you integrate your faith into everything you do.
Flexibility
The biblical and theological studies degree course requirements are flexible, allowing you the opportunity to combine your Bible and theology knowledge with other disciplines as second majors or minors.
A vibrant community
You’ll learn in a dynamic academic department where you’ll develop close relationships with your professors and classmates through informal gatherings, tutoring services, and teaching assistantships.

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Professor passionately teaching a lesson on the book of Revelation.

Students engaging in a lively discussion during a classroom session.

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Connect with a counselor

They’ll answer your questions, connect you with professors, and help you find the right time to visit campus. They’ll be there every step of the way to help make applying to Bethel as smooth as possible.

Find your counselor

Courses and skills

What skills will I develop?

By majoring in biblical and theological studies, you’ll gain global perspectives of theological ideals—not just Western thought. And you’ll develop the skills to be a well-rounded person, not just a well-rounded student.

Professor teaching on missional theology.

Biblical competence

Along with gaining an introduction of biblical languages, you’ll learn to interpret and discern Scripture exegetically and contextually. Understanding the historical context in which the Scriptures were written will then help you apply the messages to contemporary situations.

Historical understanding of theology

You'll learn the history of Christian doctrine and how that history continues to shape contemporary expressions of faith—and links us to Christians who have gone before us.

Leadership

You’ll become attentive to the issues affecting Christian thought today and gain the skills needed to capably and knowledgeably lead others in a ministry, church—or anywhere.

Skills for any career

As you develop strong ethical, analytical, and philosophical thinking skills, you'll also hone your writing and research skills that will help you in nearly any job—and graduate school.

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Academic plans

Map out your time at Bethel—from day one to your diploma. Your course schedule is designed to help you grow, gain skills, and become who you’re meant to be.

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Learning opportunities

What experiences will I have?

Hands-on learning is at the core of all Bethel majors. That means you’ll find numerous opportunities to get involved, apply what you’ve learned, and gain experience. And Bethel’s size and vibrant community will allow you to pursue ways to get involved right away.

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Study abroad

Bring Scripture and theology to life by experiencing first-hand ways to live out your faith in the midst of a broken world by studying in places like Israel, Turkey, Greece, Ireland, or Cambodia. You’ll have opportunities to study abroad over a full semester, January, spring break, or summer.

Ministry opportunities

Jump into a variety of ministry-related activities like facilitating dorm Bible studies; leadership in student ministries; internships at local churches; participation in missions trips, community outreaches like Twin Cities Outreach; and much more through the Office of Campus Ministries.

Spiritual transformation

You’ll be mentored and guided by experienced professors with a heart for God’s Word who will invest in your success. And you’ll experience deep spiritual and personal transformation as you explore God’s calling for your life.

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Real-world impact

What can I do with a biblical and theological studies degree?

Biblical knowledge is critical to the identity of Christians, while the lack of biblical knowledge negatively impacts Christian belief and the ability to dialogue. By majoring in biblical and theological studies, you’ll gain biblical knowledge that grounds you to effectively live out your calling. As you become the person you’re meant to be, you’ll be equipped for a life of purpose in many different fields.

Ministry

With a solid biblical foundation and strong leadership skills, you’ll be ready to serve in a church or ministry as a pastor, youth minister, administrator, director, worship leader, or chaplain.

Advocacy

With a heart for infusing your faith into the world, you can compassionately impact the lives of others as a camp counselor, humanitarian relief worker, community organizer, and social worker.

Education

If you’re interested in teaching, you can add an education degree. You can also pursue a graduate degree in teaching or doctoral programs to become a principal or administrator.

Writing

Apply your analytical thinking skills and bring theology to life with words. Pair a biblical and theological studies major with a journalism major or creative writing minor.

Skills for any field

With strong writing and research skills, you’ll be equipped to serve in numerous fields, including healthcare, counseling, journalism, consulting, missions, community development, and more.

Graduate school

You’ll build a strong foundation and be prepared to continue your education in seminary or graduate school.

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Start your journey

Explore Bethel for yourself

Visiting campus is the best way to learn about Bethel and our majors. As you try out academic and campus life at Bethel, you can attend a class, chat with students, meet professors and coaches, tour campus, and get a taste of life in our program.

Schedule a visit

Faculty mentors

Meet your professors

You’ll learn alongside professors who are accessible and usually have an open-door policy so you can stop by with questions.

Department of Biblical & Theological Studies

Location

Barnes Academic Center (BAC) 356

Contact

Erik Leafblad

Michael Holmes