Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Major
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 Biological Sciences 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.
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
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 biological sciences 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.
19
full-time professors in biology and chemistry
#5
best research university in Minnesota
- Academic Influence224
biology grads accepted into health-related professional schools in past 10 years
News Feed
Lessons from a bird brain
Edgren Scholars Emily Schmidt ’24 and Professor of Biological Sciences Melissa Cordes study gene expression in European starlings, with the hope of better understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders.
April 15, 2024 | 9:15 a.m.
The Story of Quadruple—maybe Quintuple—Major Michael Opheim ’24
Many students—about 30%—pursue more than one major at Bethel. But only one is pursuing four. With broad interests and an eye toward his future, Michael Opheim ’24 is currently pursuing four majors—neuroscience, history, computer science, and chemistry—and may add a fifth in mathematics.
June 01, 2023 | 12:45 p.m.
Surgeon Uses Her Gifts to Support Students at Bethel and Beyond
Dr. Krista Kaups ’79 fondly remembers the close connections she built with her highly skilled and dedicated professors at Bethel. Today, not only is she dedicated to ensuring students can have similar experiences at Bethel, she is sharing her expertise as a surgeon with learners at home in California and around the world.
November 28, 2022 | 9 a.m.
Event Feed
MAY 11 2024
1:30 p.m. Brushaber Commons Atrium
Come support and celebrate our Bethel Science students! Find out about their research and internships during their presentations at our Science Research symposium.