This Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree is offered jointly by the departments of biology and chemistry, with six full-time professors with Ph.D.'s in either biochemistry or molecular biology. This degree provides a strong interdisciplinary foundation that is attractive to employers, graduate schools, and professional programs such as medical, dental, and physician assistant. Biochemistry/Molecular Biology majors complete rigorous coursework in biochemistry; genetics; cell and molecular biology; organic, analytical, and physical chemistry; along with supporting courses in math, physics, and general education. Students have the opportunity to do significant research alongside established faculty and earn the distinction of an American Chemical Society-approved Biochemistry/Molecular Biology degree.
Why should I study biochemistry/molecular biology?
Biochemistry/Molecular Biology is an interdisciplinary field that applies the tools of chemistry and physics to biological systems in order to understand their chemical composition, function, and organization. Students will learn how to think independently, solve problems, and gain a broad understanding of the principles that govern biological systems at a molecular level.
Students have the opportunity for an education that is second-to-none, working alongside professors focused on teaching courses for and doing research with undergraduate students. Students will have all the benefits of two world-class departments, working alongside highly-qualified professors in Bethel's Department of Biology and Department of Chemistry. This challenging degree is pursued within a supportive, Christian environment.
What can I do with this degree?
Recent Bethel graduates earning the B.S. degree have gone on to Ph.D. programs in biochemistry, biology, and chemistry. Our graduates are employed in education and at companies such as 3M, R&D systems, Beckman Coulter, and Ecolab. The biochemistry major is extremely popular for students who go on to professional programs in medicine, physician assistant, dental school, doctor of osteopathic medicine, and optometry.
- Sarah P. ’11, Ph.D., Chemistry, University of Minnesota
- Paul D. ’11, M.D., Loma Linda
- Matt F. ’11, M.D., University of Minnesota
- Kailey S. ’11, Ph.D., Chemistry, University of Minnesota
- Kaitlyn O. ’11, M.D., University of Minnesota
- Hannah H. ’11, M.D., Loma Linda University
- Jed A. ’12, M.D., University of South Dakota
- Erika B. ’12, P.A., Bethel University
- James C. ’12, Ph.D., Biochemistry, University of Minnesota
- Trevor F. ’12, O.D., Michigan College of Optometry
- Jenna W. ’12, D.O., Des Moines University
- Molly H. ’12, M.A.T., Bethel University
- Zac M. ’12, M.D., Michigan State University
- Nathan M. ’12, D.O., Des Moines University
- Tyler S. ’12, M.D., Loma Linda University
- Nate T. ’12, D.O., Des Moines University
What skills will I develop?
- Real-world research skills in a broad range of areas
- Hands-on experience using research-grade instruments
- Quantitative data analysis
- Experimental design, implementation and interpretation
- Critical and creative thinking for solving problems
- Reading, writing, and presentation of scientific ideas and experimental results
You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in the R.E.A.L. Experience—a program specifically designed to help you gain the relevant, hands-on experience employers desire—so that when you graduate, you’ll be as impressive in practice as you are on paper.
What unique experiences or opportunities will I have?
All biochemistry/molecular biology majors participate in junior and senior research projects in collaboration with faculty from either the biology or chemistry departments, including presenting their results at regional and national conferences. Many students participate in full-time paid summer research at Bethel or are accepted into research and internship positions across the country. Students will use state-of-the-art instrumentation in their courses and research. In addition to the core courses, there are also opportunities to study abroad and pursue coursework in special topics.
91st
National percentile for student scores on field tests
224
biology grads accepted into health-related professional schools in past 10 years
23
full-time professors in biology and chemistry
News Feed
For Women in STEM, Schools Like Bethel Have Extra Appeal
Professor of Biology Paula Soneral was part of a group of researchers whose study proves that for women especially, class size matters to their success.
July 06, 2020 | 10 a.m.
Student-faculty Research Team Assessing Early Markers and Dietary Treatment of Liver Cancer
Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is an early indicator of Metastatic Hepatocellular Carcinoma, the fastest-growing type of liver cancer globally. Understanding the impact of diet on the disease could help lower cancer rates long-term.
June 12, 2020 | 9:45 a.m.
Class of 2020 Faces Hopes and Hardships While Finishing Senior Year Online
Bethel’s 2020 graduates are experiencing many emotions as they finish their college journeys in a virtual instruction learning environment due to COVID-19. With the help of the Bethel community and their professors, they are striving to maintain community, overcome challenges, and complete many milestones of a senior year at Bethel.
May 21, 2020 | 3 p.m.
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