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Neuroscience Major

Bachelor of Science

With a B.S. in Neuroscience, you’ll build a strong base for your future career through an intensely research-focused degree.

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Become who you’re meant to be. While earning a Bachelor of Science in neuroscience, you’ll gain the tools to be at the forefront of emerging careers that utilize the skills and knowledge that a foundation in neuroscience provides. This interdisciplinary major’s intense research focus will prepare you for competitive graduate and medical schools and for success in your future career. You’ll develop your skills and expertise to reach your full potential and go into the world to serve.

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Why should I study neuroscience at Bethel?

Here, you’ll find a Christ-centered learning community where you belong. Your learning will center in the biological sciences and psychology departments and include chemistry, mathematics, and related courses. In all your classes, you’ll learn from professors who get to know you personally and will invest in your success. You’ll experience:

  • Faith-fueled learning
    Cultivate a deeper understanding of God’s character, nature, and being through the study of His creation. With support from expert professors who are faithful Christians, you’ll discover ways your faith can fuel your exploration of neuroscience.

  • Hands-on learning
    You’ll have numerous opportunities to conduct research and learn in state-of-the-art labs. And you’ll do it with the support of professors who possess expertise in their varied research interests. They are committed to leading you toward excellence and distinction through hands-on experiences both inside and outside the classroom.

  • Prepare for graduate or medical school
    You’ll be well-equipped to pursue careers that require medical or graduate degrees. And our graduates have a longstanding, excellent success rate in getting into the medical programs and pursuing vibrant careers.

  • Flexibility for your goals
    The neuroscience degree gives you the flexibility to pursue a wide variety of interest areas while helping you stand out as you pursue advanced degrees and career opportunities.

Students in lab coats focused on experiments in a biology lab.
Students collaborating on an experiment in a biology lab.
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Focused students using microscopes for their research.

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Interested in learning more about Bethel's B.S. in Neuroscience program? Fill out this simple form and we'll send you more information soon.

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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.

Find your counselor

Courses and skills

What skills will I develop?

By majoring in neuroscience, you’ll develop a strong base of knowledge and strong lab and research skills that will prepare you for numerous careers.

Close-up of a student using a pipette for an experiment.

Pre-Med requirements

You can choose courses within your major to complete all pre-med requirements for medical school.

Well-rounded science skills

Gain expertise in data analysis, research techniques, experimental design, behavioral analysis, critical thinking, and more

Laboratory skills

Engage in the unique opportunity of human cadaver dissection, gaining invaluable insights into anatomy and physiology. And you’ll refine your skills through small animal surgery in our specialized labs, honing your surgical techniques under expert guidance.

Research and collaboration

Develop strong research techniques in our state-of-the-art facilities. And you’ll better understand experimental design and interpretation through hands-on experience in a dedicated neurosciences lab. As you work alongside your professors, you’ll develop the ability to collaborate with other scientists.

Critical thinking

You’ll develop strong critical thinking abilities as you tackle complex scientific problems in our dynamic learning environment.

Communication and presentation

You’ll enhance your written and verbal communication skills through presentations and writing assignments.

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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.

See plans

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.

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Independent research

You can complete research projects one-on-one with a faculty member, and professors will help you access research opportunities outside of Bethel. The research-focused intensity of the neuroscience major is unique to Bethel and gives you the research and publication experience that graduate schools look for in applicants.

Lab experience

The blend of biology and psychology provides you with skills in animal and human research techniques. Bethel’s research methods course includes extensive lab work each week.

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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.

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Real-world impact

What can I do with a neuroscience degree?

As a neuroscience major at Bethel, you'll be well-prepared for a wide range of career opportunities. Whether you choose to continue your education or jump straight into the workforce, your degree will open doors in various fields. As you become the person you’re meant to be, you’ll be equipped for a life of purpose in almost any field

Medical school and graduate programs

Prepare for advanced studies in neuroscience, neuropsychology, occupational therapy, dentistry, medicine, optometry, physical therapy, psychology, psychiatry, speech pathology, or veterinary medicine. And our Pre-Med Program will help you focus your education on your career goals in healthcare.

Diverse career opportunities

Forge a career in academia, audiology, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, clinical research, marketing consulting, mental health, pharmaceutical sales, public policy, or research, equipped with skills and knowledge from Bethel's neuroscience program.

Education and teaching

You’ll be equipped to earn additional licenses or degrees to become a biology teacher or pursue other education-related roles. You can also pursue a second degree and teaching license through Bethel’s education program.

Healthcare

Even if you don’t pursue medical school, you’ll be able to pursue a career in various healthcare-related roles related to things like pharmaceuticals, devices, biological materials, medicine, and scientific equipment.

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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.

Schedule a visit

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

Bio >

Ellis Doan

Ellis Doan

Professor of Biological Sciences

Bio >

Brent Hoernemann

Brent Hoernemann

Laboratory and Safety Coordinator

Bio >

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

Bio >

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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

Bio >

15

students awarded undergraduate research grants in last 6 years

45

biology students have received scholarships for summer research projects (in last decade)

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.

Estimate your cost today

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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.

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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:

Majors and minors Preprofessional programs Endorsements