Why Choose Biology General at Bethel University?
The Biology General major is the most flexible path through Bethel University's biology programs, built for students who want a broad, rigorous science foundation without locking into a single specialty. You cover the full range of the discipline, from cells and genetics to ecology, evolution, and conservation, and come out with a versatile degree that opens doors to graduate school, professional programs, research, and careers across the life sciences.
What makes it work is breadth backed by real depth. You build a strong biology core in genetics, microbiology, ecology, and cell biology, then add organismal and environmental coursework along with environmental ethics and conservation biology. With flexibility in your supporting sciences and electives, you can shape the degree toward medicine, wildlife, the environment, or wherever your interests lead.
What You’ll Learn
In this program, you will learn:
- A foundation in biological chemistry, cell biology, genetics, and evolution
- An understanding of biological diversity, plant biology, animal biology, and ecology
- A working knowledge of microbiology, including bacteria, protozoa, fungi, and viruses
- A command of Mendelian and modern genetics and the biochemical basis of inheritance
- Knowledge of cell structure, function, and the mechanisms by which cells reproduce and develop
- An understanding of ecological relationships, energetics, population dynamics, and ecosystems
- Insight into the evolutionary relationships, form, and function of chordates
- An understanding of how animals adapt to their environments biochemically, physiologically, and behaviorally
- The principles and techniques of conservation biology and biological diversity
- The ability to reason through environmental ethics and policy
- Strong laboratory skills developed across the biology curriculum
Courses You'll Take
Every course in the biology major is required, with laboratory work throughout:
BIO 111, Introduction to Biology I
BIO 112, Introduction to Biology II
BIO 211, Introduction to Microbiology
BIO 300, Environmental Ethics
BIO 302, Comparative Chordate Morphology
BIO 304, Genetics
BIO 312, Environmental Physiology of Animals
BIO 401, Ecology
BIO 419, Cell Biology
BIO 421, Conservation Biology
BIO 497C, Biology Capstone
Career Possibilities
Biologist
Studies living organisms and their processes for research institutions, government agencies, or private industry.
Research Assistant
Supports scientific studies in a lab or field setting, collecting and analyzing data and maintaining experiments.
Laboratory Technician
Performs tests and analyses, prepares samples, and maintains equipment in research, clinical, or industrial labs.
Environmental or Conservation Specialist
Works to study, protect, and manage natural resources, ecosystems, and biological diversity.
Quality Control Analyst
Tests and monitors products and processes for safety and standards in fields such as pharmaceuticals or food science.
Science Writer or Communicator
Translates scientific research into clear content for the public, media, or organizations.
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