Become who you’re meant to be. While earning a B.A. in Applied Philosophy, you’ll explore profound questions about meaning, truth, and values. And you’ll be able to directly connect the study of philosophy with the study of another discipline that interests you. In an innovative program that reflects shifts in how philosophy is taught in the 21st century, you’ll engage with important content while practically applying philosophy to real life. You’ll learn to think critically about truth and values while developing strong communication, ethical reasoning, and problem-solving skills—all to reach your full potential so you can go into the world to serve.
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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.
Courses and skills
What skills will I develop?
By majoring in applied philosophy, you’ll develop the skills to be a well-rounded person, not just a well-rounded student. And you’ll experience a variety of great courses where you’ll explore big questions and apply them to modern issues.
A strong base in philosophy
As you study applied philosophy, you’ll explore historical content as well as analyzing epistemological and metaphysical problems.
A 21st-century approach to philosophy
As you gain a strong base in philosophy, you’ll explore how to live in the present day, how to interact with current issues, and how you can serve your community and world.
Modern application
You’ll have the chance to learn relevant tech skills in areas like documentary filmmaking, podcasting, blogging, and digital preservation.
Skills for any career
You’ll develop strong critical thinking, clear writing, creative problem-solving, and excellent communication that will help you in any job—and graduate school.
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.
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.
Study abroad
Study around the world through trips over a full semester, January session, spring break, and summer. Options include the Medieval Worlds travel course, which takes students to Morocco and Spain every other January. Or you can study for a semester at a university in another country. Recent students have studied in Chile, Costa Rica, Indonesia, and Lithuania.
Internships
Apply what you’ve learned through internships at law firms, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and historical institutions. Opportunities include the Minnesota Legislature, the Minnesota Historical Society, and other policy, advocacy, and research organizations. You can also gain hands-on experience as a teaching assistant, working closely with faculty.
Research
You’ll have the chance to conduct research with professors through programs like Edgren Scholars and summer research projects. And you can conduct your own original research in local or digital archives for your senior seminar paper.
Real-world impact
What can I do with an applied philosophy degree?
Applied philosophy is a versatile major that will equip you with core skills to help you become the person you’re meant to be. You’ll be equipped for a life of purpose in almost any field.
Graduate school
You’ll be prepared to continue your studies at top graduate schools. Our graduates consistently score well on graduate school entrance exams.
Law
You can earn a minor in pre-law and receive academic advising to help you prepare for the Law School Admission Test (LSAT).
Business
You’ll be able to use your skills in fields like marketing, recruiting, financial services, sales, and human resources.
Education
If you’re interested in teaching, you can pair an applied philosophy major with an education degree or pursue a graduate degree in teaching or education.
Government
If you’re interested in political science, many graduates have worked with the Minnesota State Legislature, government agencies, advocacy groups, and policy organizations.
Skills for any field
You’ll be prepared to serve in many fields. Recent graduates work in healthcare, at nonprofits, or as social entrepreneurs, pastors, lobbyists, military officers, social workers, nurses, and more.
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, and you’ll often find students gathered in the “HiPPos Suite.”
Department of History, Philosophy, and Political Science
Location
Contact
Sam Mulberry
Assistant Professor of History and Co-Director of the Academic Enrichment and Support Center
Student Support
Your support team
At Bethel, you’ll experience a community where you belong. And that means you’ll be able to access numerous tools for your academic success—tutoring, mentors, study help, and more.
Career coaching and preparation
A dedicated team is here to empower you to lead a purposeful life. Career coaches will help you build a resume, pursue internships and jobs, and provide support at every step of the way.
Academic advising
No matter your goals, you’ll find support from your advisor. They’ll help you plan your courses and will provide support as you complete your degree and start a successful career.
Tutoring and academic support
The Academic Enrichment and Support Center (AESC) will be your first stop for academic support. You’ll find help in building study skills, academic counseling, and more.
Faith formation
As you develop your faith, you’ll have support from our Campus Ministries team. From Chapel to Bible studies, you’ll have numerous opportunities to explore and grow in your faith.
Become A Bethel Student
Apply now
You belong at Bethel. If you're ready to see who you could become, start your free application today.
Find your fit
Explore related programs
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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