Chemistry Minor
Chemistry

The chemistry minor provides a full chemistry sequence of courses that can be a valuable addition to a science field such as biology or a non-science field such as business or communications. You have the opportunity to specialize the minor to your unique interests through elective courses.
Why should I study chemistry?
You’ll have the opportunity for an education that is second-to-none, working alongside professors focused on teaching courses for and research with undergraduate students. This challenging degree is pursued within a supportive, Christian environment.
Chemistry is the central science, built on the fundamentals of mathematics and physics and applied in biology and biochemistry. Students will learn how to think independently, solve problems, and gain a broad understanding of the principles that underlie the natural world.
What can I do with this degree?
The chemistry minor is a logical fit for students who are already pursuing a degree in the natural, physical, or behavioral sciences and seek to broaden their knowledge base in chemistry to make themselves more attractive to potential employers or graduate schools. This is also very helpful if your future plans include working in an interdisciplinary field. The chemistry minor can also be a valuable companion for students completing degrees in non-science fields, such as business or communications, but who plan to work in science related industries.
As an example, the chemistry minor is perfect for Biology (B.S.) majors to increase their flexibility. It requires only one additional class if you choose to take Biochemistry I as your elective in the Cell and Molecular area.
What skills will I develop?
- Real-world research skills in a broad range of areas
- Hands-on experience using 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
You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in the R.E.A.L. Experience—a program specifically designed to help you gain the relevant, hands-on experience employers desire—so that when you graduate, you’ll be as impressive in practice as you are on paper.
What unique experiences or opportunities will I have?
- Hands-on laboratory experiences with doctoral-level faculty
- Elective course options so you can take the courses of interest to you
- Study abroad opportunities
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The Story of Quadruple—maybe Quintuple—Major Michael Opheim ’24
June 01, 2023 | 12:45 p.m.
Upcoming Events
OCT 10 2023
6 p.m. Boardroom
Come to learn about STEM job and internship opportunities!
OCT 16 2023
Chemistry Student-Alumni Mixer
5:30 p.m. The Underground
Come share your educational/career journey with our current chemistry students in an informal small-group setting!

I’m going to graduate from Bethel having done things that I would have never thought I could do, and research was a big one.
Maria Pecoraro ’19University of Minnesota Medical Center

I’m not doing this because I want to save the world one heart valve at a time, but because I get to impact students who then impact others.
Angela Stoeckman ’97Associate Professor of Chemistry

Bethel chemistry students not only receive a world-class education, but also training that incorporates the beauty of God's creation in every aspect of learning.
Brent Kobielush, Ph.D. '04Current job: U.S. Regulatory Affairs Manager at Cargill, Inc.