This interdisciplinary program weaves together musical excellence, theological insight, and spiritual formation to prepare you to lead worship in churches, ministries, and faith-based organizations.
Theological Studies & Christian Ministries
Minor
Why Study Theological Studies and Christian Ministries at Goshen College?
If you feel called to ministry or want to deepen your understanding of Christian theology and service, the Theological Studies and Christian Ministries minor at Goshen College offers a transformative path. This interdisciplinary program prepares you to integrate faith, service, and leadership, whether in a church setting or another vocation grounded in Christian values.
At GC, you’ll study biblical texts, theology, ethics, and church history through the lens of Anabaptist-Mennonite tradition. You’ll also gain hands-on ministry experience through internships and opportunities for campus worship leadership. Whether you plan to attend seminary or bring a faith-based perspective to a career in teaching, counseling, music, or peacebuilding, this minor will help shape your sense of calling.
Career Paths
This minor prepares you for seminary or for vocational ministry roles in churches, schools, nonprofits, or community organizations. Possible careers include:
- Pastor or Youth Pastor
- Chaplain
- Ministry Program Coordinator
- Faith-Based Nonprofit Leader
- Religious Educator
- Seminary Student
Our graduates have attended top graduate programs such as Harvard Divinity School, Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary, and the University of Chicago Divinity School.
Curriculum and Requirements
This minor includes coursework in biblical studies, theology, Christian ethics, and ministry leadership. It pairs well with majors such as Bible and Religion, Music, Social Work, Peace and Justice Studies, and Education. Your coursework may include:
- Biblical Themes of Peace
- Jesus and the Gospels
- Ethics and Morality
- Introduction to Theology
- History of Christianity
- Worship and Preaching
- Spiritual Formation
These courses provide both academic foundation and spiritual depth.
See the full list of courses and requirements in the course catalog
Hands-On Learning Opportunities
Through the Ministry Inquiry Program, you can spend a summer serving in a pastoral internship across the U.S., gaining real-world ministry experience with mentorship and support. On campus, you can lead chapel, coordinate prayer and worship gatherings, and take part in service projects organized by Campus Ministries.
Scholarships
Students pursuing ministry and theological studies may be eligible for scholarships through the religion and Bible department, including those related to ministry leadership or Anabaptist studies.
Facilities & Resources
You’ll study in academic spaces housed in GC’s Church-Chapel, home to spiritual life on campus. This includes classrooms, meeting spaces for worship planning, and music rehearsal spaces for sacred music and worship arts.