Department of Biological Sciences
Study living things and pursue meaning in the fabric of life—and in creation.
Start your journey
Experience Bethel for yourself
Visiting campus is the best way to learn about Bethel and our majors. As you explore our welcoming community, you can attend a class, meet with students and professors, and get a taste of life in our program.
Meaningful preparation
Program highlights
All our academic departments stand out for their excellence and innovation—and the way our professors care about their students. Learn more about what sets our department apart.
Learning opportunities
In our programs, you’ll find numerous opportunities to travel the world, get involved, apply what you’ve learned, and gain experience. Learn more about:
- Creation Restoration Club
- Pre-Med Club
- TriBeta national biology honor society chapter—awarded the national Chapter Excellence and Outstanding Chapter awards four times in its history
- Sigma Zeta, an all-science honor society that hosts several national conventions
Focus on your passions
Select a specialized area of study, like immunology, aquatic biology, animal behavior, molecular biology, neurobiology, wildlife management, or developmental biology.
Blend science and your faith
You’ll cultivate a deeper understanding of God’s character, nature, and being through the thoughtful study of His creation.
Hands-on experiences
At Bethel, we’re not content to just learn about science from a textbook. We also do science in fully equipped facilities, including a human cadaver lab, biotechnology lab, greenhouse, and 260 acres of outdoor laboratories.
Collaborative research
You’ll have the chance to conduct research projects with a professor, and you can possibly receive a summer scholarship for your work. Many biology students have presented their research findings at regional and national scientific conferences, with several earning top honors.
Mentorship
Unlike large universities where professors teach only large lectures, Bethel's biology professors work directly with you in classes and labs. Their expertise and work across diverse subdisciplines offer interdisciplinary preparation for students.
Study on location
Study in the rainforests and mountains of mainland Ecuador, the reefs of the Galapagos Islands, or in New Zealand as part of the Creation Care Study Program. You can also choose off-campus study programs like the Au Sable Institute of Environmental Studies with locations in Michigan, Florida, Washington state, and India.
Gain practical experience
You’ll have the chance to complete a strong internship. Past students have interned at well-known institutions, including the Mayo Clinic, Minnesota Zoo, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, McNeely Conservatory, The Wolf Project, Medtronic, R&D Systems, and the National Institutes of Health.
Real-world impact
Career outcomes
A degree in biology or our related majors will prepare you for a wide variety of careers—and for graduate and medical schools. These majors are a great starting place for a career in the life sciences, environmental sciences, research, medicine and healthcare, and more. As you become the person you’re meant to be, you’ll be equipped for a life of purpose in numerous fields.
Skills
You’ll learn to:
- Develop quantitative reasoning for problem-solving
- Design and conduct scientific experiments
- Utilize models effectively
- Communicate scientific understanding
- Collaborate in research
- Hone critical analysis skills
- Master observational skills and critical thinking
- Apply quantitative methods to data
- Present ideas verbally and in writing
- Learn water quality testing and wildlife monitoring techniques
- Adopt interdisciplinary holistic thinking
- Conduct research and writing in environmental studies
- Explore sustainable living practices
- Conduct surgical and dissection in lab settings
- Develop immuno-detection skills
- Practice sterile technique and cell culture
- Conduct spectrophotometry and microarray analysis
- Utilize geographical information systems
- Apply science to real-life questions
Careers
You’ll be prepared to pursue a career in the following fields:
- Medicine (M.D.)
- Osteopathic medicine (O.D.)
- Dentistry
- Veterinary medicine
- Pharmacology
- Pharmacy
- Podiatry
- Cell/molecular biology research
- Cytogenetics
- Genetics research
- Neuroscience
- Optometry
- Physician assistant
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Chiropractic medicine
- Education (elementary, secondary, university)
- Environmental monitoring
- Restoration ecology (management of natural resources)
- Wildlife biology
- Zookeeping
- Environmental education
Graduate school
You’ll be able to go on to study:
- Medicine
- Dentistry
- Pharmacy
- Physical therapy
- Chiropractic
- Osteopathy
- Other allied health professions
- Anatomy
- Ecology
- Genetics
- Physical chemistry
- Forensic science
- Molecular biology
- Molecular plant sciences
- Animal physiology
- Water resources
- Public health
- History of science
Our Community
Alumni spotlight
Eric Puumala
Degree: B.S. in Biology/Pre-Med Program
At Bethel, Eric found a great place to explore the biological sciences and his faith. While he considered attending larger universities, he was drawn to the strong community and personal relationships with professors at Bethel. As he prepared for medical school, he gained valuable experience by conducting muscular dystrophy research with Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences Jackie Towner. Along with research, Eric also worked as a tutor and was involved with student clubs. “I found that Bethel is more than just a classroom,” Eric says. “I would say it's a community. We're not just here to learn about the ins and outs of science. We're here to grow as human beings and grow in relationship with each other and with, our Creator.”
Recent news
Four science labs receive state-of-the-art renovations
August 30, 2024 | 2 p.m.
Lessons from a bird brain
April 15, 2024 | 9:15 a.m.
Upcoming Events
OCT 15 2024
6 p.m. Boardroom
A great chance for STEM students to network with employers in the STEM field!
Contact us
Request info
Interested in learning more about Bethel's biological sciences department? Fill out this simple form and we'll send you more information soon.
Connect with a counselor
They’ll answer your questions, connect you with professors, and help you find the right time to visit campus. They’ll be there every step of the way to help make applying to Bethel as smooth as possible.
Faculty mentors
Meet your professors
You’ll learn alongside faculty who are distinguished scholars and faithful Christians. They’ll know you by name and invest in your success. Professors are accessible between classes, and you’ll often find fellow students gathered or studying in our department lounge.
Student Support
Your support team
At Bethel, you’ll experience a community where you belong. And that means you’ll be able to access numerous tools for your academic success—tutoring, mentors, study help, and more.
Career coaching and preparation
A dedicated team is here to empower you to lead a purposeful life. Career coaches will help you build a resume, pursue internships and jobs, and provide support at every step of the way.
Academic advising
No matter your goals, you’ll find support from your advisor. They’ll help you plan your courses and will provide support as you complete your degree and start a successful career.
Tutoring and academic support
The Academic Enrichment and Support Center (AESC) will be your first stop for academic support. You’ll find help in building study skills, academic counseling, and more.
Faith formation
As you develop your faith, you’ll have support from our Campus Ministries team. From Chapel to Bible studies, you’ll have numerous opportunities to explore and grow in your faith.
Accessible education
Tuition and financial aid
We want you to understand from the beginning what a Bethel education costs. That’s why we made it simple. Beginning in the 2025-26 academic year, tuition for the College of Arts & Sciences will be $25,990—down from $44,050. This more accurately reflects what you can expect to pay, empowering you to make informed decisions and become who you're meant to be.
Become A Bethel Student
Apply now
You belong at Bethel. If you're ready to see who you could become, start your free application today.