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Dual Degree Engineering Major

Bachelor of Arts

With an engineering dual-degree major, you’ll build a strong foundation in physics, math, and problem-solving before advancing into a specialized engineering field at a partner university.

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During your first three years at Bethel, you’ll develop core technical knowledge, hands-on lab experience, and the communication skills engineers need to lead. Then, you’ll transfer to a partner engineering school to complete your degree in a focused discipline such as mechanical, electrical, biomedical, civil, environmental, or materials engineering. In about five years—the same timeline as many engineering programs—you’ll graduate with two degrees: a B.A. from Bethel and a specialized engineering degree. You’ll be equipped to think critically, solve complex problems, and communicate effectively in a rapidly evolving technical world.

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Why should I study engineering through Bethel’s dual-degree program?

At Bethel, you’ll experience a Christ-centered learning community where you’re known, supported, and challenged. Your journey begins in the Department of Physics & Engineering, where you’ll build a strong academic foundation and prepare to transition into a specialized engineering program. 

  • Built-in career preparation
    From your first day at Bethel, career preparation is woven into your experience through The Studio for Vocation and Calling. And it’s reinforced by the Bethel Career Commitment: If you haven’t secured a job offer or graduate school acceptance within six months of graduation, we’ll step in with meaningful support to help you get there.
  • Faith-fueled learning
    Ground your engineering studies in a Christ-centered environment, preparing you to serve with purpose and integrity in your future career.

  • Close faculty mentorship
    You’ll engage in close faculty collaboration for personalized mentorship, working together on real-world design and research projects.

  • A strong academic foundation
    You’ll complete rigorous coursework in physics, math, chemistry, and computer science—giving you deeper scientific preparation than many traditional engineering pathways.

  • Exploration before specializing 
    During your first three years, you’ll gain exposure to multiple engineering disciplines, helping you make a more informed decision about your future specialization.

 

  • Career-ready graduates
Employers value dual-degree graduates for their strong technical foundation and ability to communicate complex ideas clearly—skills that set them apart in the workplace.

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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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Courses and skills

What skills will I develop?

Through the engineering dual-degree program, you’ll develop a versatile skill set that prepares you for both advanced engineering study and professional success.

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Technical and analytical skills

You’ll use math to solve real-world problems, understand how physical systems work, and write code to model and analyze data.

Engineering and problem-solving skills

You'll break down complex problems into clear solutions, design systems that work efficiently and effectively, and use science to solve real-world engineering challenges.

Communication and collaboration

You'll communicate technical ideas clearly, write strong reports and documentation, and work effectively with teams across different fields.

Adaptability and leadership

You'll build a strong foundation across engineering fields, stay adaptable in a changing industry, and grow into leadership roles through clear thinking and communication.

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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.

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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. And Bethel’s size and vibrant community will allow you to pursue ways to get involved right away.

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Real-world experience

You’ll engage in hands-on laboratory courses and collaborative projects that apply physics and engineering principles to real-world challenges.

Clubs and travel

You can participate in multiple clubs, like High-Power Rocket Team, Society of Physics Students, and study abroad opportunities in Switzerland and at Oxford University in England.

Research and faculty collaboration

You’ll have opportunities to work alongside faculty on research projects, gaining experience in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication.

Internship and career preparation

With support from faculty and career services, you’ll prepare for internships, transfer applications, and future employment in engineering fields.

Transfer to specialized engineering programs

After completing your Bethel coursework, you’ll transition to a partner engineering school where you’ll focus on your chosen discipline and gain advanced technical training.

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Real-world impact

What can I do with this degree?

With two degrees and a strong technical foundation, you’ll be prepared for a wide range of engineering careers and advanced study.

Specialized engineering

Apply your technical training in fields like mechanical, electrical, civil, biomedical, environmental, or materials engineering. You’ll design systems, solve complex problems, and contribute to real-world innovations across industries.

Technology and innovation

Use your analytical and coding skills to work in systems engineering, software development, simulation, or product design—helping build and optimize modern technologies.

Research and graduate study

Pursue advanced degrees in engineering or applied physics, or step into research and development roles where you’ll test ideas, analyze data, and contribute to new discoveries.

Leadership and project management

Lead teams, manage engineering projects, and communicate complex ideas clearly—combining technical expertise with strong collaboration and decision-making skills.

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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.

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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.

Department of Physics & Engineering


Location

Barnes Academic Center (BAC) 244

Contact

Brian Beecken

Brian Beecken

Brian Beecken

Professor of Physics and Engineering

Bio >

Alyssa Hamre Kontak

Alyssa Hamre Kontak

Associate Professor of Physics

Bio >

Julie Hogan

Julie Hogan

Associate Professor of Physics

Bio >

Nathan Lindquist

Nathan Lindquist

Professor of Physics

Bio >

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Wayne Raman-Nair

Professor of Physics and Engineering

Bio >

Keith Stein

Keith Stein

Professor of Physics

Bio >

Shensheng Tang

Shensheng Tang

Professor of Physics and Engineering

Bio >

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Gretchen Kulas

Adjunct Instructor of Physics and Engineering

Bio >

Nathan Lemke

Nathan Lemke

Senior Staff Physicist

Bio >

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Jason Stroup

Adjunct Instructor of Physics and Engineering

Bio >

Thomas Greenlee

Thomas Greenlee

Professor of Physics Emeritus

Bio >

Richard Peterson

Richard Peterson

University Professor of Physics Emeritus

Bio >

15

specialized labs and design spaces spanning nearly 12,000 square feet

12th

in the number of physics students graduated, of the 472 undergraduate-only physics departments in the U.S

- American Institute of Physics

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 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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A path with promise

Clear price. Clear outcomes.

Know what your education costs—and where it’s taking you. You’ll start with a clear price so you can focus on what truly matters: your education and your future. And you’ll graduate with confidence through the Bethel Career Commitment, which includes built-in career coaching and additional support for eligible graduates who still need help.

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Explore the career commitment

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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