Biological Systems Engineering

Biological Systems Engineers develop the techniques and processes to work with living systems, including microbes, plants and animals. They provide input to produce and process food, fiber, energy, chemical feedstock and pharmaceuticals. Emphasis is placed on the protection and conservation of our natural resources including efficient use of soil and water, environmental protection of air and water quality and bio-based remediation of contaminated soils.

Three degree options

• Biological focus
  Biological Systems Engineers with a biological focus work with biological systems in areas such as bio-remediation, bio-materials, bio-based energy, bio-instrumentation or processing. The biological option fulfills the requirements of an engineering degree while providing students the flexibility to place emphasis on biological solutions to global issues.

• Machinery focus
  Many BSE graduates design, test and evaluate machines used in agriculture, construction and related off-highway industries. The machinery option provides graduates with the analytical tools necessary to develop machines that reduce the cost of production in food and fiber systems with an understanding of environmental and energy constraints.

• Environmental focus
  The environmental option focuses on design and management of systems that use or affect natural resources. Biological Systems Engineers work at the interface between biology and engineering and utilize this knowledge base to address water quality issues in streams and lakes, soil and water conservation, effective utilization of water resources and air quality issues.