With a Minor in Sociocultural Studies of Education, you’ll explore how the education system and society and culture shape one another.
By adding a sociocultural studies of education minor, you’ll the relationship between schools, students, and teachers and U.S. history, economics, politics, society, and culture. As an education student, this minor will deepen your understanding of the field and its connections to our culture. If your studying another subject, you can gain insights into educational policy and practice to prepare for work that intersects with the education system.
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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?
With a sociocultural studies minor, you’ll gain a foundation of teaching knowledge and skills that will prepare you to continue to graduate school and earn a teaching license.
Explore critical societal issues
Examine contemporary debates like LGBTQ+ and religious liberty, vaccinations, and parental choice, and privatization and public funding through the lens of schooling.
Engage with contemporary debates
You'll examine current political and social issues as they relate to the educational system.
Understand educational diversity
As U.S. schools diversify, you'll develop the skills to meet the needs of diverse student groups.
Interdisciplinary learning
Take courses across various departments, enriching your primary major and broadening your educational perspectives.
Prepare for impactful careers
Whether you become an educator, policymaker, or community leader, this minor equips you with the knowledge to address urgent educational challenges.
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.
Student clubs
You can join the Bethel Student Educator’s Association, a student-led academic club that strives to build community within the education department. You’ll be able to attend club events aimed at supporting your future as an educator and connect with your fellow education majors. You can explore your interests through 30+ clubs and intramural sports on campus.
Study abroad
You’ll have many options for studying abroad over a full semester, January session, spring break, and the summer, including Exploring British Education and Culture, a study abroad course over January for education majors.
Networking and connections
You’ll be able to attend events hosted by the education department where you can interact with regional education leaders, build connections, develop your job interviewing skills, and interact directly with potential employers. These include a principal panel each fall and Bethel Advance, a recruiting and interview night held each spring.
Real-world impact
How will a sociocultural studies of education minor help my career goals?
As you study sociocultural studies of education, you'll prepare for a range of careers and advanced educational opportunities.
Deepen your educational knowledge
You’ll enhance your understanding of how education interacts with societal and cultural factors, preparing you for roles in education and beyond.
Contribute to societal change
With a comprehensive understanding of educational systems and policies, you'll be equipped to make a meaningful impact in your community and beyond.
Build bridges across disciplines
The minor encourages you to merge your education with another area of study departments, offering a rich interdisciplinary experience that can be applied to various careers.
Stand out in the job market
Whether you pursue teaching, graduate school, or other related fields, this minor makes you a more knowledgeable and attractive candidate.
Enhance your teaching career
Gain valuable insights into policy to better prepare as a teacher ready to address issues that might come up in your classroom.
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 invest in your success, and you’ll develop strong mentoring relationships that extend past graduation. You’ll learn from professors who are always seeking new methods and content to keep courses fresh and innovative, and our department stresses the importance of classrooms being communities of learning where all students are welcome and respected.
Becky Carlson
Adjunct Assistant Professor of Education and Elementary Education Placement Coordinator
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.
Become A Bethel Student
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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
This flexible minor will complement almost any major you choose. But here are a few examples:
Explore the full lists: