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
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Why We Teach
One professor spent his spring sabbatical interviewing 15 winners of Bethel’s Faculty Excellence Award for Teaching. The resulting documentary illustrates the special relationship between Bethel faculty and students.
September 06, 2018 | 2 p.m.
New College of Arts & Sciences Professors Start this Fall
Bethel welcomes eight new professors to the community.
August 24, 2018 | 11 a.m.
The Campus Tree Project
Alumni often return to campus to visit a favorite professor or memorable space. Because of one outdoor biology research project, some return to visit the trees.
August 14, 2018 | 8:20 a.m.
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My college experience not only gave me the knowledge I needed to pursue a career in medicine, but also provided me with opportunities to gain real-life skills that increased my confidence as both a researcher and a Christian. Having this experience in a Christian environment allowed me to learn with others who share similar core values and reminded me that faith can exist in every aspect of our lives.
Hannah Manion '18
Bethel chemistry students not only receive a world-class education, but also training that incorporates the beauty of God's creation in every aspect of learning.
Brent Kobielush, Ph.D. '04Current job: U.S. Regulatory Affairs Manager at Cargill, Inc.
The people at Bethel helped me determine the kind of person I wanted to be, before I knew what kind of doctor I would be. Bethel’s influence is essential to my work as a future physician and follower of Jesus.
Brett Einerson '06Current Job: Resident Physician at Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine
My foundational education at Bethel really influenced my choice to pursue academic medicine instead of just clinical care. I’m so appreciative of the professors and their gift of incredible dedication to their students, while always giving God the glory!
Jonathan Eliason '92Current Job: S. Martin Lindenauer Collegiate Professor of Vascular Surgery; Co-Director, CVC-Multidisciplinary Aortic Program; Associate Professor of Surgery, University of Michigan
The Environmental Studies program prepared me as a well-rounded student. I gained the field skills to study ecology, and also the ethical perspectives behind environmental stewardship. The professors are knowledgeable and passionate, which is passed on to their students.
David Petry '13Grad School: M.S. in Biological Sciences at Eastern Illinois University
The biology department was integral in getting me where I am today. It provided research opportunities, unique experiences such as interim in the Galapagos Islands/Amazon Rainforest/Ecuador, personal relationships with professors, and the academic foundation to smoothly transition to medical school.
Nate Paulson '10Currently: University of Virginia Anesthesiology Resident; received M.D. from University of South Dakota, Sanford School of Medicine
My favorite part of Environmental Studies courses was hands-on lab experience outside, connecting classroom learning to nature. Creation Restoration was a great way to put our coursework into practice on campus. Bethel's Environmental Studies program equipped me to steward Creation.
David Petry '13Grad School: M.S. in Biological Sciences at Eastern Illinois University
While working with the Conservation Corps, I found that Bethel's Environmental Studies program gave me a lot more experience and made me more well-rounded than many of the other environmental studies students.
Kevin Berens '13Current job: Park Overseer, Parks and Trails Division of Minnesota DNR