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Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Major (B.S.)

Bachelor of Science

With a B.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, you’ll gain the skills to make world-shaping discoveries and better understand the relationship between your faith and scientific study.

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Become who you’re meant to be. While earning a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, you’ll explore the grand diversity of what makes up our world through experiences in the lab, field, and classroom. Explore an interdisciplinary field that applies the tools of chemistry and physics to biological systems to understand their chemical composition, function, and organization. You’ll form a strong interdisciplinary foundation that is attractive to employers, graduate schools, and professional programs such as medical, dental, and physician assistant. 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 biochemistry and molecular biology at Bethel?

Here, you’ll find a Christ-centered learning community where you belong. Your learning will center in the biological sciences and chemistry departments, where you’ll learn alongside skilled teachers and scientists with Ph.D.s in either biochemistry or molecular biology. Your professors will also get to know you personally and 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. And your professors will model how to be excellent scientists and faithful Christians.

  • Hands-on learning
    Explore biochemistry and molecular biology in state-of-the-art facilities in the Nelson-Larson Science Center and Barnes Academic Center. And you’ll have numerous opportunities to conduct research and complete strong internships.

  • Strong success in graduate and medical schools
    You’ll be well-equipped to pursue careers that require medical or graduate degrees. And our graduates have an excellent success rate in getting into these programs and pursuing vibrant careers.

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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 biochemistry and molecular biology, you’ll develop a strong base of skills through rigorous coursework in biochemistry; genetics; cell and molecular biology; organic, analytical, and physical chemistry; along with supporting courses in math, physics, and general education. You’ll also have numerous opportunities to apply your classroom lessons and prepare for a vibrant career.

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Practical science skills

You'll learn to use and apply quantitative reasoning to solve problems and analyze data, create and use models, critically analyze and evaluate scientific topics, and you’ll design scientific experiments.

Laboratory skills

Develop your skills and expertise in our labs, including advanced microscopy, human cadaver dissection, small animal surgery, microarray analysis and experimentation, environmental field sampling techniques, and more.

Research and collaboration

As you pursue research opportunities, you’ll develop strong research skills and be equipped to collaborate with others.

Communication and writing

You’ll prepare to clearly communicate your scientific understanding in multiple forms as you develop strong skills in presenting, reading, writing, critical thinking, and analysis.

A strong core

You’ll learn how to think independently, solve problems, and gain a broad understanding of the principles that govern biological systems at a molecular level.

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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. Here are just a few examples:

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Research and internships

You’ll participate in junior and senior research projects alongside faculty members from the biological sciences or chemistry departments, You’ll also have the chance to present results at regional and national conferences. You can also participate in full-time paid summer research at Bethel or pursue research and internship positions across the country.

Amazing learning spaces

You’ll use state-of-the-art instrumentation in modern labs. In addition to the core courses, you’ll also find opportunities to study abroad and pursue coursework in special topics.

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 biochemistry and molecular biology degree?

As a biochemistry and molecular biology major at Bethel, you’ll have a multitude of career paths to choose from. Our graduates have a strong track record of success in various fields, from advanced education to professional healthcare and industry roles.

Grad school

You’ll be well-equipped to continue your education in Ph.D. programs in biochemistry, biology, and chemistry.

Medicine

The biochemistry major is a great option if you want to go on to a professional program in medicine, physician assistant, dental school, doctor of osteopathic medicine, and optometry.

Businesses and organizations

You’ll be able to follow in the footsteps of graduates who are employed at companies such as 3M, R&D systems, Beckman Coulter, and Ecolab.

Education and teaching

You’ll be equipped to earn additional licenses or degrees to become a teacher or pursue other education-related roles.

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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 Chemistry


Location

Barnes Academic Center (BAC) 142

Contact

Rollin King

Brandon Winters

Rollin King

Rollin King

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 >

Brandon Winters

Brandon Winters

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

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David Tweeten

Adjunct Associate Professor of Chemistry

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Don Albright

Professor of Chemistry Emeritus

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Ken Rohly

Ken Rohly

Professor of Chemistry Emeritus

Bio >

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Paul Tavernier

Professor of Chemistry Emeritus

Bio >

Top 15%

of chemistry programs nationally

- Major Field Test results

#5

best research university in Minnesota

- Academic Influence

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