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Neuroscience Major

Bachelor of Science

With a B.S. in Neuroscience, you’ll build a strong base for your future career through an intensely research-focused degree.

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Become who you’re meant to be. While earning a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience, you’ll gain the tools to be at the forefront of emerging careers that utilize the skills and knowledge that a foundation in neuroscience provides. This interdisciplinary major’s intense research focus will prepare you for competitive graduate and medical schools and for success in your future career. 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 neuroscience at Bethel?

Here, you’ll find a Christ-centered learning community where you belong. Your learning will center in the biological sciences and psychological sciences departments and include chemistry, mathematics, and related courses. In all your classes, you’ll learn from professors who get to know you personally and will invest in your success. You’ll experience:

  • Faith-fueled courses
    Cultivate a deeper understanding of God’s character, nature, and being through the study of His creation. With support from expert professors who are faithful Christians, you’ll discover ways your faith can fuel your exploration of neuroscience.

  • Hands-on learning 
    You’ll have numerous opportunities to conduct research and learn in state-of-the-art labs. And you’ll do it with the support of professors who possess expertise in their varied research interests. They are committed to leading you toward excellence and distinction through hands-on experiences both inside and outside the classroom.

  • Preparation for graduate or medical school
    You’ll be well-equipped to pursue careers that require medical or graduate degrees. And our graduates have a longstanding, excellent success rate in getting into the medical programs and pursuing vibrant careers.

  • Flexibility for your goals
    The neuroscience degree gives you the flexibility to pursue a wide variety of interest areas while helping you stand out as you pursue advanced degrees and career opportunities.

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Students engaged in a detailed experiment in a lab setting.
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Students discussing and analyzing results in the lab.
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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 neuroscience, you’ll develop a strong base of knowledge and strong lab and research skills that will prepare you for numerous careers.

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Pre-Med Requirements

You can choose the course of study built into the neuroscience major that will allow you to complete all pre-med requirements.

Well-rounded science skills

Gain expertise in data analysis, research techniques, experimental design, behavioral analysis, critical thinking, and more

Laboratory skills

Engage in the unique opportunity of human cadaver dissection, gaining invaluable insights into anatomy and physiology. And you’ll refine your skills through small animal surgery in our specialized labs, honing your surgical techniques under expert guidance.

Research and collaboration

Develop strong research techniques in our state-of-the-art facilities. And you’ll better understand experimental design and interpretation through hands-on experience in a dedicated neurosciences lab. As you work alongside your professors, you’ll develop the ability to collaborate with other scientists.

Critical thinking

You’ll develop strong critical thinking abilities as you tackle complex scientific problems in our dynamic learning environment.

Communication and presentation

You’ll enhance your written and verbal communication skills through presentations and writing assignments.

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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.

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Conduct independent research

You can complete research projects one-on-one with a faculty member, and professors will help you access research opportunities outside of Bethel. The research-focused intensity of the neuroscience major is unique to Bethel and gives you the research and publication experience that graduate schools look for in applicants.

Gain extensive lab experience

The blend of biology and psychology provides you with skills in animal and human research techniques. Bethel’s research methods course includes extensive lab work each week.

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Join several 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 neuroscience degree?

As a neuroscience major at Bethel, you'll be well-prepared for a wide range of career opportunities. Whether you choose to continue your education or jump straight into the workforce, your degree will open doors in various fields. As you become the person you’re meant to be, you’ll be equipped for a life of purpose in almost any field.

Medical school and graduate programs

Prepare for advanced studies in neuroscience, neuropsychology, occupational therapy, dentistry, medicine, optometry, physical therapy, psychology, psychiatry, speech pathology, or veterinary medicine. And our Pre-Med Program will help you focus your education on your career goals in healthcare.

Diverse career opportunities

Forge a career in academia, audiology, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, clinical research, marketing consulting, mental health, pharmaceutical sales, public policy, or research, equipped with skills and knowledge from Bethel's neuroscience program.

Education and teaching

You’ll be equipped to earn additional licenses or degrees to become a biology teacher or pursue other education-related roles. You can also pursue a second degree and teaching license through Bethel’s education program.

Healthcare

Even if you don’t pursue medical school, you’ll be able to pursue a career in various healthcare-related roles related to things like pharmaceuticals, devices, biological materials, medicine, and scientific equipment.

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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 Psychology


Location

Barnes Academic Center (BAC) 311

Contact

Angela Sabates

Angela Sabates

Angela Sabates

Professor of Psychology

Bio >

Rachel Anderson

Rachel Anderson

Associate Professor of Psychology

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Sherryse Corrow

Sherryse Corrow

Professor of Psychology

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Joel Frederickson

Joel Frederickson

Professor of Psychology

Bio >

Ruth Nelson

Ruth Nelson

Professor of Psychology

Bio >

Gretchen Wrobel

Gretchen Wrobel

University Professor of Psychology

Bio >

Ryan Hovis

Ryan Hovis

Adjunct Instructor of Psychology

Bio >

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Brenna Keefe

Adjunct Instructor of Human Services

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Amy Bianchi-Ross

Adjunct Instructor of Psychology

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Nicole Centanni

Nicole Centanni

Adjunct Instructor of Psychology

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Kasey Erickson

Kasey Erickson

Adjunct Instructor of Psychology

Bio >

Krystal Humphreys

Krystal Humphreys

Adjunct Instructor of Psychology

Bio >

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Alicia Ochs

Adjunct Instructor of Psychology

Bio >

Kathlene Scholljegerdes

Kathlene Scholljegerdes

Adjunct Instructor of Psychology

Bio >

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Bailey Thompson

Adjunct Instructor of Psychology

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Linde Getahun

Associate Professor of Psychology Emerita

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Andy Johnson

Andy Johnson

Associate Professor of Psychology Emeritus

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Lucie Johnson

Professor of Psychology Emerita

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James Koch

Professor of Psychology Emeritus

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Jason Li

Jason Li

Professor of Psychology Emeritus

Bio >

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Steven McNeel

Professor of Psychology Emeritus

Bio >

Katherine Nevins

Katherine Nevins

Professor of Psychology Emerita

Bio >

Carole Young

Carole Young

Dean of Natural and Behavioral Sciences and Professor of Psychology Emerita

Bio >

Ben K Lim

Ben K Lim

Professor of Marital and Family Therapy Emeritus

Bio >

160

psychology majors

Up to 50%

recent psychology alumni went on to graduate school

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.

Start your application

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