With a minor in social welfare studies, you’ll expand your understanding of social services and community impact, complementing your major with interdisciplinary knowledge and skills in social and behavioral sciences.
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Courses and skills
What skills will I develop?
While exploring social welfare studies, you’ll gain a strong foundation in policy-making and social services that can serve you in your career.
Understanding of policy and community impact
Explore the complexities of social policies and their effects on communities, gaining insights into social welfare systems and their implications for society.
Reconciliation and social justice
Learn about strategies for promoting reconciliation, social justice, and equity, examining issues of diversity, inclusion, and social change from micro and macro perspectives.
Critical thinking
Develop critical thinking skills through the analysis of social problems and the evaluation of policy solutions, honing your ability to assess issues from multiple viewpoints and propose informed solutions.
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 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.
Faith-integrated learning
Ground your social welfare studies in a Christ-centered environment, preparing you to engage with issues of social justice and service from a Christian perspective
Interdisciplinary exploration
Engage in interdisciplinary discussions and projects, collaborating with students and faculty from diverse backgrounds to address social challenges and promote community well-being.
Applied learning experiences
Apply your knowledge through internships, service-learning projects, and community-based initiatives, gaining practical experience and making meaningful contributions to social welfare efforts.
Real-world impact
How will this minor help my career goals?
The social welfare studies minor enhances your understanding of social issues and equips you with valuable skills that are applicable across various fields.
Enhance your major
Tailor your education and major to your goals by gaining insights into social services and community dynamics.
Advocacy and service
Pursue careers in fields like social work, nonprofit management, public policy, law, healthcare, or ministry, advocating for social justice and serving marginalized populations.
Leadership and change-making
Develop leadership skills and strategies for promoting positive social change in local communities, nonprofits, government agencies, and global initiatives.
Graduate studies
Prepare for further education in fields like social work, public administration, law, counseling, or public health.
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 between classes, and you’ll often find fellow students gathered or studying nearby.
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.
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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:
