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Biblical and Theological Studies Minor

Minor

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.

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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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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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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?

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. 

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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.

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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 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.

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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

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.

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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 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 Biblical & Theological Studies


Location

Barnes Academic Center (BAC) 356

Contact

Erik Leafblad

Michael Holmes

Erik Leafblad

Erik Leafblad

Assistant Professor of Missional Ministries

Bio >

James K. Beilby

James K. Beilby

Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies

Bio >

Paul Eddy

Paul Eddy

Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies

Bio >

Victor Ezigbo

Victor Ezigbo

Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies

Bio >

Kaz Hayashi

Kaz Hayashi

Associate Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies

Bio >

Juan Hernandez

Juan Hernandez

Professor of Biblical Studies

Bio >

Catherine Wright

Catherine Wright

Associate Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies

Bio >

John Potts

John Potts

Adjunct Instructor of Biblical and Theological Studies

Bio >

Jennifer Scott

Jennifer Scott

Adjunct Instructor of Biblical and Theological Studies

Bio >

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Gloria Wiese

Adjunct Assistant Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies

Bio >

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Carissa Wyant

Adjunct Assistant Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies

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Peter Kapsner

Peter Kapsner

Adjunct Assistant Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies

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Donald Alexander

Professor of Biblical Studies Emeritus

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Pamela Erwin

Professor of Biblical Studies Emerita

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John Herzog

Professor of Biblical Studies Emeritus

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Michael Holmes

Michael Holmes

University Professor of Biblical Studies and Early Christianity Emeritus

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Karen McKinney

Karen McKinney

Professor of Biblical Studies Emerita

Bio >

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Carl Rasmussen

Professor of Old Testament Emeritus

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8

full-time professors in the department

150

students in the department

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Accessible education

Tuition and financial aid

We want you to understand from the beginning what a Bethel education costs. That’s why we made it simple. Beginning in the 2025-26 academic year, tuition for the College of Arts & Sciences will be $25,990—down from $44,050. This more accurately reflects what you can expect to pay, empowering you to make informed decisions and become who you're meant to be.

Estimate your cost today

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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.

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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.

Explore the full lists:

Majors and minors Preprofessional programs Endorsements