Biosystems Engineering, MS
The Master of Science in Biosystems Engineering emphasizes the application of engineering to agricultural and other biological systems through topics in machinery systems, environmental quality and resource conservation, instrumentation, sensors and control systems, and bioprocessing.
Program Overview
Biosystems engineers work with natural systems and integrate knowledge of engineering, mathematics, biology, chemistry, and physics to conserve natural resources, protect the environment, and efficiently produce and process safe, plentiful, high-quality food and fiber.
The master’s curriculum continues to build on skills in biothermodynamics, biochemistry, mechanical systems, hydrology, bioprocessing, instrument and controls, and engineering design through classwork and research.
Concentrations
Students in this graduate program pursue a general degree in biosystems engineering, with thesis and non-thesis tracks available.
Why study Biosystems Engineering?
Innovative Research
Research is an integral part of the biosystems engineering program. Thesis track students can pursue advanced research in the areas of: soil conservation and health, hydrology and water management, waste management, bioprocessing and biomass conversion, power and machinery, instrumentation and sensors, and control systems.
Distinct Pathways
Master’s students can choose between two degree types: thesis and project track. The thesis track is a research-oriented degree that requires presentation of research and a final oral exam. The project track is coursework-oriented with a final written exam.
Renowned Faculty
The Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science has been recognized nationally for its contributions to engineering. Faculty have received awards such as the Environmental Stewardship Outreach Award from Governor Bill Lee and Blue Ribbon Awards from the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers. Biosystems faculty are also highly regarded across campus for their dedication to students and their success.
What can you do with a degree in Biosystems Engineering?
A master’s degree in biosystems engineering prepares students for a variety of careers in the engineering industry. Graduates have pursued employment in all engineering sectors, holding titles like agricultural engineer, water resources engineer, project engineer, and technical solutions engineer.
The biosystems engineering master’s degree also provides a pathway for students to pursue higher education in engineering.
Featured Courses
BSE 519 – Modeling Techniques and Applications
Engineering approach to mathematical modeling of physical phenomena. Systems definitions and boundaries; types and formulation of models and solution techniques; verification and calibration techniques; model applications and case studies. Graduate research proposal development and publication formatting.
BSE 526 – Environmental Hydrology
A brief introduction to hydrology and an introduction to water-based design and modeling of agricultural, low-impact density, and other ecological systems.
BSE 531 – Bioprocess Engineering
Development of interdisciplinary bioprocess engineering; basics of biology in an engineering perspective; enzymatic reaction kinetics; metabolism and bioenergetics; cell growth kinetics and product formation; engineering principles applied to bioprocess engineering including mass balance, energy balance, and reaction kinetics; reactor design and systems; introduction to bioseparations; practical aspects of bioprocess engineers and process development.
BSE 564 – Data Analytics in Agricultural and Ecological Systems
Provides students with the fundamentals of data science and modeling for analyzing environmental, ecological, and agricultural systems using the open-source software R. Note that prior programming experience is not required. Students will gain a broad understanding of different analytical tools and learn to apply such methods to agricultural and ecological data. Designed for students in a natural resources and life sciences discipline.
BSE 572 – Selected Topics in Machinery, Control, and Instrumentation Systems
Topics in the engineering of machinery, sensors, and data collection and analysis systems, and the use of these systems in ways that enhance productivity, increase efficiency, boost economic return, and protect environmental resources.
BSE 575 – Mechatronic and Robotic Systems
Design of electromechanical solutions for automation. Integration of sensors, actuators, and microcontrollers as a system and its validation. Design and development of automated platform, embedded system, and automated toolbox. Unmanned ground systems. Engineering team project.
Admissions and Aid
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