Do you want to pursue a career in the church as a pastor or lay leader? The Goshen College Theological Studies and Christian Ministries (TSCM) minor will help you focus on your convictions and provide a community of fellow students who are passionate about worship and service.
Pursue a Career in Christian Ministry with the Goshen College TSCM Minor
The Goshen College Theological Studies and Christian Ministries (TSCM) minor is designed for students interested in a vocation in Christian ministry. Wherever your path may lead you, be it teaching, writing, music, or entrepreneurship, you will find that the TSCM minor will help you focus on your Christian ethics and provide practical ministry experience.
Get the Training Needed to Lead in the Church
The program validates with academic credit the broad variety of experiences and leadership opportunities that students gain while at GC, whether it is:
Working with campus ministries as a worship assistant
The TSCM minor is open to all students, regardless of their major. The biblical studies coursework covers Old and New Testament topics, Christian theology, ministry, and leadership.
Learn From Professors Who are Passionate About Theology and Ministry
Our Bible & Religion department faculty are committed to walking with theology minors on their faith journey. You will have the opportunity to learn from professors passionate about their scholarship and who care about each student as an individual.
In addition, the Theological Studies and Christian Ministries Program offers regular events, such as lectures, discussion groups, service projects, and retreats, that provide opportunities for students to deepen their faith and explore how it intersects with the world.
Choose From a Variety of Courses that Will Help You Grow in Your Faith
Classes will give you a biblical, historical and theological foundation to become a competent ministerial leader and prepare you to share the Good News of God’s desire for shalom with people from varied backgrounds.
You will grow toward spiritual and personal maturity and be challenged to clarify your pastoral identity.
Besides taking courses such as Jesus and The Gospels, Christian Theologies, and Congregational Ministries at GC, you will be able, if you wish, to take a course or two at the Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary in Elkhart as part of your GC tuition.
Build Community With Other Students Who Share Your Interests
Nathan Vader graduated in 2013 with an English writing major and a theater and Bible, religion and philosophy minor. On the side, he edited for the campus newspaper, The Record, authored a book, acted and directed plays.
Ammon Allen-Doucot was a 2016 Bible and religion graduate from Hartford, Connecticut. He was active in Social Reform Club, PAX Club, Ultimate Frisbee Club and worked at the Campus Center for Young Children.
Chad Bauman graduated in 1995 with a Bible and religion degree. The doctor of philosophy and professor of Bible and religion received an unexpected invitation: a private audience with Pope Francis.
After taking four years off after high school, Leanna Teodosio '14 visited the GC campus and learned about the core values. Right away, she knew she was in the right place--so much so that she stayed an extra year.
"I love walking alongside students while they are on this quest for authentic meaning and -- for some -- honest faith. I truly see my teaching, especially at a place like Goshen College, as my calling."