Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (M.S.)

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Program Information
Graduate work in the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering leads to Master of Science in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering and Doctor of Philosophy in Biological Sciences degrees.

Students who undertake graduate studies in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering normally have as their goal a better understanding of the current theories, principles, issues, and problems in agricultural and biological systems. Graduate studies improve the student’s ability to think critically and creatively, and to synthesize, analyze, and integrate ideas for decision-making and problem solving.

The department offers students an opportunity to undertake research and advanced study in specialization areas such as machine vision, food and biomaterial processing, physical properties of biological materials, natural resource engineering, structures, indoor environment, waste management and machine design.

Course Delivery Format
The program engages students in lecture, laboratory, and in hands-on, field-based learning experiences.

Facilities and Services
The Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Department is housed in the Agricultural Engineering Building. The entire building is dedicated to undergraduate instruction and research and outreach projects that support the engineering needs of production agriculture, natural resource conservation, and value added processing of the food and fiber produced in the region. Additional research and outreach projects take place at multiple field locations in the region. There are almost 17000 square feet of space dedicated to industry-sponsored student design projects and cutting edge research, including a full fabrication shop and two computer labs to support these efforts. The department is also home to the Water Resources Institute, dedicated to the proper stewardship of the state’s water resources.

Student Engagement and Support Opportunities
Many students participate in activities such as designing and building the Quarter-scale tractor, internships, and research projects. Other ABE opportunities are available via our student branch of the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE). In addition, engineering opportunities are available via organizations such as Society of Women Engineers, Engineers Without Borders, and others. The most outstanding students are honored by induction into the ABE honorary society of Alpha Epsilon and engineering honor societies such as Tau Beta Pi.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Master of Science	Option A
	Option B

Core Requirements

ABE 771 - Graduate Seminar
Credits: 1
STAT 541 - Statistical Methods II
Credits: 3
ABE 798 - Thesis
(Option A) Credits: 5-8
or
ABE 788 - Master’s Research Problems/Projects
(Option B) Credits: 2-3
ABE Electives: 9
- ABE 544 - Unit Operations of Biological Materials Processing
  
  and Lab
  Credits: 4
- ABE 555 - Principles Biological Separation Processing
  
  and Lab
  Credits: 3
- ABE 732 - Advanced Hydrology in Agriculture
  Credits: 2
- ABE 733 - Ground Water Engineering in Agriculture
  Credits: 3
- ABE 734 - Advanced Irrigation Engineering
  Credits: 3
- ABE 748 - Bioseparations
  Credits: 3
- ABE 752 - Theoretical Micro-Climatology
  Credits: 2
- ABE 754 - Advanced Unit Operations of Food/Biomaterials Processing
  
  and Lab
  Credits: 3
- ABE 763 - Instrumentation
  
  and Lab
  Credits: 3
- ABE 771 - Graduate Seminar
  Credits: 1

*Other elective courses from outside the department (such as in Computer Science, Math, Physics or another engineering department or another supporting department) may be used only if: (1) 500-level or higher, (2) they support a coherent plan of study, and (3) they are approved by the Major Advisor and Graduate School.

Additional Approved Electives: 9-17
Plan A: 9-12
Plan B: 16-17

*Other courses from outside the ABE department (such as in Computer Science, Math, Physics or another engineering department or another supporting department) may be used only if: (1) 500-level or higher, (2) they support a coherent plan of study, and (3) they are approved by the Major Advisor and Graduate School.

Total Credits: 30 (Option A), 32 (Option B)

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Not required
TOEFL: Score of 550 paper-based, 79 Internet-based
IELTS: 5.5

General Requirements (Master’s Degree)

Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate work.

For additional information refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .