With a biblical and theological studies minor, you’ll build a solid foundation in the Bible and theology to live as a creative and critical Christian—no matter your major and career goals.
By adding a minor in biblical and theological studies, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of the Bible, theology, and what it means to be a Christian today. You’ll also sharpen your worldview and grow in your relationship with God, helping you explore deeper ways to infuse your Christian faith into your major field of study and a wide range of careers.
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Courses and skills
What skills will I develop?
As you explore the Bible and theology, 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.
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 in order to 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
You’ll 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.
Sample Courses
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Academic Plans
The best way to get a sense for life at Bethel is to experience it for yourself. Meet professors and students, enjoy the beautiful lakeside campus, and feel the energy of our faith-filled community.
Learning opportunities
What experiences will I have?
Hands-on learning is at the core of all Bethel majors and minors. You’ll find numerous opportunities to get involved, apply what you’ve learned, and gain experience—all in a community where you belong. And Bethel’s size and vibrant community will allow you to pursue ways to get involved right away.
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 Christian Formation and Church Relations.
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.
Real-world impact
How will this minor help my career goals?
With a biblical and theological studies minor, you’ll sharpen your Christian worldview and prepare to serve and lead compassionately. As you become the person you’re meant to be, you'll be equipped for a life of purpose in many different fields.
Apply your faith in any career
As you grow in your relationship with God and deepen your biblical knowledge, you’ll be well-equipped to infuse your Christian faith into whatever career you choose.
Stand out to employers
You’ll gain strong ethical, analytical, and philosophical thinking—skills valued in careers in education, business, healthcare, counseling, communication and marketing, psychology, and more.
Lead with confidence
Gain the leadership skills and abilities needed to capably and knowledgeably lead others in a ministry, church—or anywhere.
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.
Faculty mentors
Meet your professors
You’ll learn alongside faculty who are distinguished scholars and faithful Christians. They’ll know you by name and invest in your success. Professors are accessible and usually have an open-door policy so you can stop by with questions.
Department of Business
Location
Barnes Academic Center (BAC) - Office 356
Contact
Erik Leafblad
Department Chair
Erik Leafblad
Assistant Professor of Missional Ministries and Department Chair | ecl59862@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2015
Missional Ministries
Emeritus/Emerita Faculty
Michael Holmes
University Professor of Biblical Studies and Early Christianity Emeritus and Department Chair | holmic@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 1982
New Testament and early Christianity, with special interests in New Testament textual criticism and the apostolic fathers
Faculty
James K. Beilby
Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies | james-beilby@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2001
Systematic and philosophical theology, apologetics, and ethics
Paul Eddy
Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies | eddpau@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 1997
Biblical and theological studies, with special interests in life of Jesus research, theology of religions, and theology of human sexuality
Victor Ezigbo
Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies | v-ezigbo@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2008
Ezigbo studied Christian theology in three continents: Africa (Nigeria), North America (United States of America.), and Europe (United Kingdom). He has learned in his theological journey across these continents that the Christian faith takes on new forms of expression each time it genuinely encounters a new cultural frontier. Each new expression has its distinct accent that adds to the multi-vernacularity of both the Christian faith and Christian theology. . . . read more.
Kaz Hayashi
Associate Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies | kah54922@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2022
A Japanese Old Testament scholar, archaeologist, minister, and husband and father.
Juan Hernandez
Professor of Biblical Studies | j-hernandez@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2006
New Testament and early Christianity, with a special interest in New Testament Textual Criticism, especially the text of the Apocalypse and its reception history
Catherine Wright
Associate Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies | c-wright@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2001
New Testament studies, with special interests in the Gospel of Luke and spiritual formation
Adjunct Faculty
Dale Durie
Adjunct Associate Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies | d-durie@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2005
Preaching, missional theology, and spiritual formation.
John Potts
Adjunct Instructor of Biblical and Theological Studies | jwp47774@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2017
Adjunct Instructor of Biblical and Theological Studies
Jennifer Scott
Adjunct Instructor of Biblical and Theological Studies | jscott@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2002
Studying the Bible is an adventure. Teaching about the Bible is a privilege. As I teach, I continue to see new things and learn more about what it means to be a disciple of Jesus.
Gloria Wiese
Adjunct Assistant Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies | wieglo@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 1998
Adjunct Assistant Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies
Carissa Wyant
Adjunct Assistant Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies | caw66564@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2023
Adjunct Assistant Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies
Peter Kapsner
Adjunct Assistant Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies | kappet@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2002
New Testament and Practical Theology
Donald Alexander
Professor of Biblical Studies Emeritus | aledon7@comcast.net | Started at Bethel: 1987
Professor of Biblical Studies Emeritus
Pamela Erwin
Professor of Biblical Studies Emerita | perwin@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2002
Ministry
John Herzog
Professor of Biblical Studies Emeritus | jjherzog@gmail.com | Started at Bethel: 1981
Professor of Biblical Studies Emeritus
Karen McKinney
Professor of Biblical Studies Emerita | mckkar@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 1995
Youth ministries and biblical theology, with a special interest in experiential education, anti-racism, and diversity.
Carl Rasmussen
Professor of Old Testament Emeritus | rascar@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 1980
Professor of Old Testament Emeritus
150
students in the department
8
full-time professors in the department
Accessible education
Tuition and financial aid
College is an investment in your future. That’s why we strive to make your education attainable and provide you with clear and accurate information as you consider your next steps. The net price calculator is a great place to start.
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Find your fit
Explore related majors
Bethel’s small size, strong community, and liberal arts focus allows you to personalize your education by adding additional majors or minors. In fact, about 30% of students double major—and many pursue degrees in vastly different disciplines.
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