When students consider a degree in the Bible and Theology Department, one question naturally rises to the surface: What can you do with it?

At Nelson University, the answer is: just about anything.

While many students do feel called to full-time ministry, that’s only part of the story. Nelson’s Department of Bible and Theology is intentionally designed to prepare graduates for a wide range of careers. This isn’t a narrow track; it’s a launchpad. 

Students learn how to think critically, communicate clearly, lead with integrity, and engage complex ideas through a faith-informed lens. That kind of preparation doesn’t just translate to ministry, it empowers graduates to make an impact in anything they feel called to do. Whether that is a church, a classroom, a corporate office, or a creative studio, Nelson equips them to step forward with confidence.

For students considering advanced education, Nelson’s Bible and Theology Department consistently opens doors to some of the most respected graduate institutions in the country.

Recent graduates have gone on to:

• Yale Divinity School – James Archuleta, who received a full-tuition scholarship and stipend
• Duke Divinity School – Abigail Thompson, Andrew George and Trinity Taylor all received full tuition scholarships 
• Princeton Theological Seminary – Isai Carmona and Monica Truhe (full-tuition scholarship)
• Baylor University’s Truett Seminary – Chase Shae (full-tuition scholarship)
• Columbia, Fuller Theological Seminary, Regent University, Southern Methodist University, Wheaton College, and more.

These aren’t just acceptances, they’re fully funded opportunities, a testament to the academic excellence and preparation students receive at Nelson.

Of course, many Nelson graduates do step directly into ministry roles. Several alumni are serving as: Youth pastors, campus pastors, church planters and ministry leaders.

For example:

• Jonathon Bonzelaar has stepped into a leadership role as a Campus Pastor in Detroit.
• Jared Owns serves as a Youth Pastor while beginning graduate studies.
• Amy Whitney is already influencing young people nationwide through AG Youth while pursuing further education.

But what sets Nelson apart is this: ministry isn’t limited to a job title. Graduates are taught to view their entire career—whatever the field—as an opportunity for Spirit-filled influence.

One of the most powerful outcomes of Nelson’s Bible and Theology Department is how graduates bring their education into diverse, meaningful careers.

Consider just a few examples:

• Social Work: Mercy Gonzales Priest is pursuing graduate studies at LSU and preparing for a career as a licensed social worker.
• Education & Leadership: Samuel Herrera teaches middle school and coaches athletics while preparing for leadership-focused graduate studies.
• Fine Arts: Maddie Staley is working professionally in art restoration.
• Business & Marketing + Theology: Marissa Francis blends theological training with marketing expertise as she completes her graduate degree.
• Worship & Creative Ministry: Nash Crouch is preparing for a future in writing and producing worship music.

A degree in the Bible and Theology Department doesn’t limit options, it expands them. No matter the path, graduates leave Nelson with a deep understanding of scripture, strong critical thinking skills, and a clear sense of their God-given purpose.

About Nelson University 

Nelson University is a private Christian university located just 30 minutes south of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex in Waxahachie, Texas. Founded in 1927, the university offers more than 70 undergraduate degrees, both on campus and online. Committed to integrating faith and learning, Nelson prepares students to fulfill their God-given callings in a Spirit-empowered community. For more information, visit www.nelson.edu or call 1-888-937-7248