Department of Chemistry

Investigate the relationship between science and your faith as you gain the skills to reach your goals.

Student in a white lab coat performing a chemistry experiment with lab equipment.

Start your journey

In Bethel’s Department of Chemistry, you’ll find a vibrant learning community that will provide the support, space, and tools to explore ways to creatively and critically pursue answers to important questions.

In a top chemistry program approved by the American Chemical Society, you’ll expand your science skills and knowledge, gain hands-on experience, and conduct cutting-edge research with the support of distinguished faculty who will invest in your success and support you. 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.

Hands-on experiences


At Bethel, we’re not content to just learn about science from a textbook. You’ll gain hands-on experience in fully equipped facilities with advanced instrumentation, including a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy.

Integration of science and faith


In every course, you’ll explore how your Christian faith relates to scientific studies—and how it can inspire your desire to make a positive impact in the world. And your professors will model how to be excellent scientists and faithful Christians.

Student-faculty research


You’ll have the chance to conduct research project with a professor, and you can possibly receive a summer scholarship for your work. Many chemistry students also present their research findings at regional and national scientific conferences.

Outstanding faculty mentoring


Build one-on-one relationships with professors who partner with and encourage you to pursue your professional goals and calling. Your professors will work directly with you in classes and labs, providing numerous opportunities for mentorship.

Job and grad school placement


You’ll gain the tools to earn a graduate or medical degree at top schools across the country. Or you can immediately purse a career in chemistry, biochemistry, and other scientific fields. We're most proud that our students are equipped to succeed in whatever they choose to do.

A vibrant community


You’ll have numerous opportunities to connect with classmates and alumni. Bethel chemistry students are passionate about what they do and they like hanging out together. And alumni frequently return to campus to connect with current students and offer advice.

Student clubs and organizations


Clubs are a great way to get involved, connect with classmates, and attend networking nights and other social events. Join one of the many clubs to engage socially and professionally in your chosen field: 

  • ChemClub
  • 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

Real-world impact

Career outcomes

A degree in chemistry 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 research, medicine and healthcare, and much 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:

  • Real-world research skills in a broad range of areas
  • The ability to use research-grade instruments
  • Quantitative and analytical skills to understand data and solve problems
  • Experiment design and interpretation
  • Critical and creative thinking
  • Reading, writing, and presentation of scientific ideas and experimental results

Careers


You’ll be prepared to pursue a career in the following fields:

  • Chemical engineers
  • Industrial chemists
  • Research scientists
  • Teachers
  • Pharmaceutical researchers
  • Forensic scientists
  • Materials scientists
  • Biomedical researchers
  • Physicians
  • Doctors of osteopathic medicine
  • Product developers
  • Lawyers
  • Technical writers
  • Dentists
  • Physician assistants
  • Ophthalmologists

Graduate School


You’ll be able to go on to study:

  • Medicine
  • Physicians assistant
  • Dentistry
  • Pharmacy
  • Optometry
  • Chemistry
  • Biochemistry
  • Genetics
  • Physical chemistry
  • Forensic science
  • Public health

Our Community

Alumni spotlight

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Brent Kobielush

Job: Conagra Brand, Senior Director Regulatory AffairsSenior Director Regulatory Affairs

Degree: B.S. in Chemistry

At Bethel, Brent discovered a supportive community where faith and science coexist. He also found personalized learning and mentorship from his professors that equipped him for success. Initially, he envisioned a path as a cardiac surgeon or chemist, but he discovered a love for toxicology, pursued advanced degrees, and found a career in food regulation and technology. He’s worked for companies like Cargill, General Mills, and Conagra Brands. He continues to navigate the intersection of science, faith, and integrity, viewing his work as a form of worship and marveling at the intricacies of God's creation.

Read more

Upcoming events

OCT 15 2024

STEM Employer Showcase 2024

6 p.m. Boardroom

A great chance for STEM students to network with employers in the STEM field!

OCT 21 2024

Chemistry Student-Alumni Mixer 2024

5:30 p.m. Eastlund Room

Come share your educational/career journey with our current chemistry students in an informal small-group setting!

Contact us

Request info

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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

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 Chemistry


Location

Barnes Academic Center (BAC) 142

Contact

Rollin King

Brandon Winters

Rollin King

Rollin King

Professor of Chemistry

Bio >

Brandon Winters

Brandon Winters

Professor of Chemistry

Bio >

James Christenson

James Christenson

Associate Professor of Chemistry

Bio >

JB Jawabrah Al Hourani

JB Jawabrah Al Hourani

Associate Professor of Chemistry

Bio >

Angela Stoeckman

Angela Stoeckman

Professor of Chemistry

Bio >

Tao Wu

Tao Wu

Associate Professor of Chemistry

Bio >

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Sarah Danielson

Adjunct Instructor of Chemistry and Chemistry Lab and Safety Coordinator

Bio >

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Lori Schmidt

Adjunct Assistant Professor of Chemistry

Bio >

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David Tweeten

Adjunct Associate Professor of Chemistry

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Don Albright

Professor of Chemistry Emeritus

Bio >

Ken Rohly

Ken Rohly

Professor of Chemistry Emeritus

Bio >

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Paul Tavernier

Professor of Chemistry Emeritus

Bio >

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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