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Software Engineering Major

Bachelor of Science

With a software engineering major, you’ll become a well-rounded thinker while honing specialized skills in programming languages and software-related project management.

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Become who you’re meant to be. While earning a B.S. in Software Engineering, you’ll study the practical applications and real-world challenges of software development, preparing you for a career in many technology and engineering roles. You'll also gain a broad knowledge base in math, computer science, physics, and engineering.

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Why should I study software engineering at Bethel?

Here, youll find a Christ-centered learning community where you belong. Your learning will center in the physics and math and computer science departments, where youll learn from professors who get to know you personally and will invest in your success. Youll experience:

  • Faith-fueled learning
    We take our faith in Christ and integrate it into everything we learn, into everything we do, and everywhere we go, so that we can accomplish incredible things.

  • A vibrant community
    You
    ll learn in a dynamic academic department where youll develop close relationships with your professors and classmates through informal gatherings, tutoring services, and teaching assistantships. 

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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 software engineering, you’ll be equipped with in-demand skills that will set you apart in many fields.

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Strong foundational concepts

Gain a solid foundation in applied computer science concepts, including computer architecture, networking, and information technology. These core skills will prepare you to tackle real-world challenges in software development.

Develop programming expertise

Become proficient in major programming languages such as C/C++ and Java. Along with web development and computer graphics skills, you’ll be equipped to create custom software solutions and develop dynamic websites.

Explore advanced technologies

Delve into cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, and software engineering. These advanced topics will prepare you to tackle innovative projects and lead in tech-driven environments.

Build real-world software

With a focus on software engineering and database systems, you'll learn to design, develop, and manage complex software projects. You'll gain hands-on experience through practical applications and collaborative projects.

Lead and collaborate effectively

Develop essential project management and cross-disciplinary collaboration skills. You'll be prepared to lead teams and work alongside professionals from diverse fields, ensuring successful software development and implementation.

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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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Research

You'll have opportunities to collaborate with faculty on funded research projects in growing fields like actuarial science, operations research, differential equations, high-performance computing, and computability and complexity.

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Hands-on experiences

You’ll get to practice what you learn by being a peer tutor, student grader, working in Bethel’s IT department, or participating in internships.

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Student clubs and organizations

Participate in student organizations like Sigma Zeta and Bethel’s student chapters of the Association for Computing Machinery and the Mathematical Association of America.

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Real-world impact

What can I do with a software engineering degree?

As life and communication move increasingly online, software engineers and technology employees are becoming a vital part of every industry and workplace. As you become the person you’re meant to be, you’ll be equipped for a life of purpose in many different fields.

Diverse engineering roles

With a solid foundation in applied computer science concepts, you’ll be ready for a career as a software engineer, network architect, and senior database administrator across various industries, including ministry, education, manufacturing, and corporate settings.

Business leadership

Bring your integrity and strong, collaborative problem-solving skills to lead technology initiatives for business as a project manager, management consultant, technical account manager, or senior database administrator,

Skills for any field

With an ability to think collaboratively and distill complex ideas into applicable information, you’ll be equipped to apply your background to almost any field, including education, manufacturing, consulting, and more.

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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.

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

Assistant 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 >

Nathan Lemke

Nathan Lemke

Adjunct Associate Professor of Physics and Engineering

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 >

Physics alum recognized for innovation in Forbes' 30 Under 30 - Energy list

- Forbes 2018

11,800

square feet of physics and engineering labs (doubled since 2016)

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