The Biological and Agricultural Engineering program is jointly administered by the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and the College of Engineering. The department is one of the largest in North America and is consistently ranked as one of the top programs in the nation.

This program develops graduates who can pursue engineering careers in industry, academia, consulting or government. The curriculum is designed to produce graduates who are prepared to become practicing biological and agricultural engineers, many of whom will become registered professional engineers. Graduates of this program serve the engineering needs of clientele in environmental and natural resources, machine systems, food processing, bioprocessing, and agricultural production and processing. Students in this major learn to apply knowledge of physical and biological sciences, mathematics, and engineering principles to formulate and solve engineering problems. Engineering design is integrated throughout the curriculum, along with opportunities to develop communication, learning, and teamwork skills, culminating in a capstone design experience. Electives in the curriculum allow the student to specialize in one of the following areas: Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering, Renewable Energy Engineering, Food and Bioprocess Engineering, or Machine Systems Engineering.

• Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering - design and management of systems affecting soil, water, and air resources.

• Renewable Energy Engineering - design and development of biomass, wind and solar energy systems.

• Food and Bioprocess Engineering - design and development of systems for processing and handling of food and agricultural products and processes involving cells, enzymes, or other biological components.

• Machine Systems Engineering - design and development of machines and machine systems for food, feed and fiber production and processing.