Become who you’re meant to be. While earning a B.S. in Biology at Bethel, you’ll apply what you learn in meaningful laboratory experiences and experimentation. While our B.A. in Biology is a starting place for many careers in the life sciences, the B.S. includes additional chemistry and physics courses to prepare you for graduate or medical school. The general biology emphasis is a flexible option you can tailor to your goals, preparing you for various career fields—wildlife biology, zookeeping, agriculture, horticulture, crop or livestock breeding, laboratory technology, outdoor education, and more. It also provides a solid foundation for a secondary science teaching credential, veterinary medicine, and master's or Ph.D. programs in the biological sciences.
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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.
Courses and skills
What skills will I develop?
By majoring in biology, you’ll develop a strong base of skills in the biological sciences in the classroom and in state-of-the-art labs. Biology is the study of living organisms and the interactions these organisms have with non-living components of Creation. You’ll gain fundamental knowledge about cells, organisms, and communities that will enable you to build connections and solve problems at the interface of human and global health.
Practical science skills
You'll learn to use and apply quantitative reasoning to solve problems, create and use models, critically analyze and evaluate scientific topics, design scientific experiments, and conduct research.
Communication
You’ll be equipped to communicate your scientific understanding in multiple forms as you develop strong skills like reading, writing, critical thinking, and analysis.
Research and collaboration
As you pursue research opportunities, you’ll develop strong research skills and be equipped to collaborate with others.
Laboratory skills
Develop your skills and expertise in our labs, including advanced microscopy, human cadaver dissection, small animal surgery, microarray analysis and experimentation, environmental field sampling techniques, and more.
Academic plans
Map out your time at Bethel—from day one to your diploma. Your course schedule is designed to help you grow, gain skills, and become who you’re meant to be.
Learning opportunities
What experiences will I have?
Hands-on learning is at the core of all Bethel majors. That means you’ll find numerous opportunities to get involved, apply what you’ve learned, and gain experience by studying abroad or completing amazing internships. And Bethel’s size and vibrant community will allow you to pursue ways to get involved right away.
Specialized labs
Explore science in state-of-the-art facilities in the Nelson-Larson Science Center and Barnes Academic Center, as well as human cadaver and biotechnology labs, neurosciences labs, a cellular/molecular biology lab, a greenhouse, environmental science labs, and 247 acres of outdoor laboratories. In all our labs, you’ll grow accustomed to modern instruments and equipment.
Research and teaching assistantships
As you engage in cutting-edge work, you’ll have opportunities to conduct research alongside professors and you could receive a summer scholarship or present your findings at regional and national scientific conferences. You can work in the department as a TA.
Clubs and organizations
Engage with your classmates and build connections through the Pre-Med Club, Creation Restoration Club, and Tri-Beta National Biology Honor Society. Some clubs also sponsor networking events that bring alumni and potential employers to campus.
Real-world impact
What can I do with a biology degree?
A biology major will provide a strong base if you plan to enter graduate or medical school after college—and it will prepare you for diverse career paths. As you become the person you’re meant to be, you’ll be equipped for a life of purpose no matter where your career takes you.
Medical careers
You can go on to work as a doctor, osteopathic physician, dentist, veterinarian, optometrist, podiatrist, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, occupational therapist, medical technician, genetic counselor, and more. And our Pre-Med Program will help you prepare to meet your goals.
Research and lab careers
Gain the skills to work as a biological laboratory scientist and technician, a molecular and cellular biologist, a geneticist, a bioinformatics scientist, a biochemical engineer, a food industry scientist, and more.
Healthcare
If you don’t go to medical school, you can pursue a career in various healthcare-related roles related to things like pharmaceuticals, devices, biological materials, medicine, and scientific equipment.
Graduate school
This emphasis will help you prepare for Ph.D. programs, or research-based master's/Ph.D. programs in cellular or molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology, genetics, or similar fields.
Education and teaching
You add a second major in education, pursue a teaching degree, or an M.A. in teaching to become a biology teacher or pursue other education-related roles.
Environmental sciences
Work in various roles related to environmental biology. You could be a zoologist, wildlife biologist, horticulturist, conservationist, and more.
Start your journey
Explore Bethel for yourself
Visiting campus is the best way to learn about Bethel and our majors. As you try out academic and campus life at Bethel, you can attend a class, chat with students, meet professors and coaches, tour campus, and get a taste of life in our program.
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.
Find your fit
Explore related programs
Bethel’s small size, strong community, and liberal arts focus allows you to personalize your education by adding additional majors or minors. In fact, about 30% of students double major—and many pursue degrees in vastly different disciplines.
Explore the full lists: