Department of Biological Sciences

Study living things and pursue meaning in the fabric of life—and in creation.

A focused student uses a microscope for research.

Start your journey

In Bethel’s Department of Biological Sciences, you’ll find a vibrant learning community that will provide the support, space, and tools to investigate the wonder and intricacies of life.

You’ll prepare for careers on the cutting edge of biology or in medicine by building a foundation in a range of fundamentals, such as genetics, ecology, cell biology, anatomy/physiology, microbiology, botany, biochemistry, and more. In each class, you’ll explore the relationship between your faith and biology alongside professors who model how to be faithful Christians and amazing scientists.

Majors, minors, and programs

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.

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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: 

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

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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.

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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.

Department of Biological Sciences


Location

Barnes Academic Center (BAC) 128

Contact

Amy Dykstra

Amy Dykstra

Amy Dykstra

Professor of Biological Sciences

Bio >

Melissa Cordes

Melissa Cordes

Associate Professor of Biological Sciences

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Ellis Doan

Ellis Doan

Professor of Biological Sciences

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Brent Hoernemann

Brent Hoernemann

Laboratory and Safety Coordinator

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Brian Hyatt

Brian Hyatt

Professor of Biological Sciences

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Abbie Marten

Abbie Marten

Instructor of Biological Sciences

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Brittany Nairn

Brittany Nairn

Associate Professor of Biological Sciences

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Jeffrey Port

Jeffrey Port

Professor of Biological Sciences

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Paula Soneral

Paula Soneral

Professor of Biological Sciences

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Jackie Towner

Jackie Towner

Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences

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Sara Wyse

Sara Wyse

Professor of Biological Sciences

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Beth Keister

Adjunct Instructor of Biological Sciences

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Ann O'Neill

Adjunct Instructor of Biological Sciences

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Faith Schumann

Adjunct Instructor of Biological Sciences

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Leann Snow

Adjunct Instructor of Biological Sciences

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Jim Stern

Adjunct Instructor of Biological Sciences

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Jeffrey Winter

Adjunct Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences

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Brandon Burbach

Adjunct Assistant Professor in Biological Sciences

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Andrew Steward

Adjunct Instructor of Biological Sciences

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Bryan Anderson

Associate Professor of Biological Sciences Emeritus

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Teresa DeGolier

Teresa DeGolier

Professor of Biological Sciences Emerita

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Gregg Johnson

Professor of Biological Sciences Emeritus

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Ian Johnston

Ian Johnston

Professor of Biological Sciences Emeritus

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Patricia Paulson

Patricia Paulson

Professor of Biological Sciences Emerita

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Kenneth Petersen

Professor of Biological Sciences Emeritus

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James Reynhout

Professor of Biological Sciences Emeritus

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Timothy Shaw

Timothy Shaw

Professor of Biological Sciences Emeritus

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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