Program Coordinator/Contact
Van Kelley, Department Head
Kasiviswanathan Muthukumarappan, Distinguished Professor/Graduate Coordinator
Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering
Raven Precision Agriculture Center 217
605-688-5661
Program Information
Graduate work in the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering leads to Master of Science in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Doctor of Philosophy 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, environmental 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 food and biomaterial processing, physical properties of biological materials, natural resource engineering, precision agriculture, structures, indoor environment, waste management and machine design.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Conduct Research or Design: Conduct research and/or design projects that demonstrate an ability to model, analyze, and design agricultural and biosystems engineering processes and systems.
- Understand the principles of agricultural and biosystems engineering: The student will articulate a solid understanding of fate fundamental principles of agricultural and biosystems engineering, including the area of specialization and supporting areas.
- Communicate effectively: The student will demonstrate an ability to communicate, both orally and in writing, technical information in an effective manner.
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 Raven Precision Ag Building. The entire building is dedicated to undergraduate and graduate instruction, 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 and nationally. Additional research and outreach projects take place at multiple field locations in the region. There are more than 25,000 square feet of space dedicated to industry-sponsored student design projects and cutting edge research, including a full fabrication shop and a computer lab to support these efforts. The department is also home to the South Dakota Water Resources Institute (SDWRI), dedicated to the proper stewardship of the state’s water resources.
Student Engagement and Support Opportunities
Many students participate in activities such as 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, Agricultural honorary society of Gamma Sigma Delta and engineering honor societies such as Tau Beta Pi.
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