Frequently Asked Questions

What is anthropology?

Anthropology is the holistic study of human nature, culture, and history. At Bethel, we consider these issues from a biblical perspective. We learn about how God created people to live in human communities, to creatively develop shared ways of life, and how sin and redemption affect humans in their worldviews, cultures, and communities. We explore these issues with students in courses such as Introduction to Anthropology and Human Origins and Diversity.

What is sociology?

Sociology is the study of human societies and interaction. At Bethel, we consider how human societies liberate or oppress people, and how human interactions sometimes display sin, and sometimes glorify God. We offer richly integrated Christian perspectives in courses such as Introduction to Sociology, Religion in Society, and Social Inequality.

What is sociocultural studies?

The Department of Anthropology and Sociology offers a major in sociocultural studies, a major that blends anthropology and sociology. Students graduate with competency in both fields, gaining a holistic view of the social sciences.
Can I double major?

The sociocultural studies major has fewer credit requirements than many other majors at Bethel. Sociocultural studies is a wonderful partner for majors like political science, education, philosophy, psychology, Bible and theology, and many others. Sociocultural studies helps a student gain global and cultural perspective on their other field of study. Many of our majors double-major, or minor in another field.

What kinds of jobs can I get?

Service and Career opportunities

Sociocultural studies is a liberal arts major, not a professional major. Professional majors, like nursing, social work, or education, prepare and certify students for a specific profession. Liberal arts majors such as philosophy, history, or sociocultural studies broadly educate students, but do not prepare them for a specific professional track. The broadness of the liberal arts can be freeing and creative, but it can also be frustrating when a student has not yet found a professional direction.

Our faculty, Bethel's Career Services, and other resources help students identify their passions and areas of interest. Many of our graduates work in cross-cultural social services, missions, business, education, and Christian work. Many continue their education in graduate programs in education, law, social science, or theological studies.