BE THE CHANGE, DESIGN THE SOLUTION

The Biosystems Engineering (BE) program is an accredited engineering degree that prepares students to design solutions to meet the water, food and energy needs of the world’s growing population.

From the classroom to the laboratory, you will integrate engineering and biological science principles to develop real world solutions for agricultural and environmental challenges. Our hands-on program will prepare you to design practical and efficient systems, processes, devices and machines to improve human, animal and environmental health, ensuring a prosperous tomorrow.

You can choose one of six career specializations in bioenvironmental, machine systems, controlled environment, food and bioprocessing, pre-biomedical, pre- medical/pre-veterinary. Each specialization allows flexibility according to your specific interests and can incorporate certificates as part of the major. Layered with opportunities for internships, co-ops, and research, you will be well prepared for a rewarding engineering career.

Careers

The Biosystems Engineering degree will prepare you for dynamic careers in the private, public, and non-profit sectors as well as professional programs.

  • Biopharma scientist
  • Ecosystem restoration engineer
  • Environmental engineer
  • Entrepreneur
  • Fermentation operations engineer
  • Manufacturing engineer
  • Processing engineer
  • Project manager
  • Sales engineer
  • Water resources engineer

Accelerate Your Career Into Graduate School

For highly motivated students, the opportunity exists to integrate up to 12 credit hours of undergraduate and graduate coursework through the Accelerated Master’s Pathways or AMP program. Students will save time and money by receiving dual credit for select courses taken during their senior year of undergraduate studies. Those interested in pursuing this path to a graduate degree should consult with their academic advisor.

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THE BE COMMUNITY

The priority of the BE community Is student success. Comprised of students, faculty and staff, our community strives to foster a sense of belonging, learning and achievement. Our students are active in departmental, college and university student organizations and are difference makers. Our faculty and staff play an active role in mentoring students to be the best individuals, scholars and engineers they can be. Whether teaching in the classroom, serving as career and professional development mentors, advising student organizations, or guiding research projects, we connect with students one on one.

Student checking on drone setup in field
The James B. Beam Institute is leading a new program where neighboring distillers partner to find ways of saving on their utility bills. Brad Barron and Kevin Baldridge were photographed checking on energy output of distillery equipment at the James B. Beam Institute on October 23rd, 2024.

FIRST-YEAR ENGINEERING PROGRAM

The brightest, most talented engineers are devoting themselves to tackling immense global challenges. As a First-Year Engineering (FYE) student, you get to join them! Focused on the ambitious goals outlined in the National Academy of Engineering’s “Grand Challenges for Engineering in the 21st Century,” our FYE program is designed to help you discover your passion through hands-on project-based learning.

Experiential Learning

Hands-on learning is at the heart of what we do in BE. Our program provides students with opportunities to put theory into practice, both in and out of the classroom. With access to laboratories and research farms and forests, students can join faculty in making meaningful contributions to engineering challenges.

BAE 200 Principles of Biosystems Engineering

Students apply the engineering problem solving approach to analyze biological systems and design engineering solutions.

BAE 205 Computer Aided Design for Biosystems Engineering

Students engage in hands-on design using CAD, CNC and traditional fabrication tools.

BAE 305 DC Circuits and Microelectronics

Students learn about digital electronics and integrated circuits and design a solution to a current biosystems engineering problem.

BAE 402/403 Biosystems Engineering Design I and II

Students collaborate with faculty and industry partners to complete a year-long design project including fabrication, testing and evaluation.

Living Learning Program

The Living Learning Program (LLP) supports student success by placing students with similar interests into smaller communities in particular residence halls.

Academic Enrichment

Our college believes in learning by doing. Our students are required to complete at least one type of experiential or hands-on learning opportunity, such as undergraduate research, an internship or an education abroad experience.

Scholarships

Thanks to generous alumni, donors and community partners, we have one of the largest scholarship programs at UK. Only one application is required for our college’s scholarships, but there are hundreds of potential awards.

Student Services

We’re here to help you grow personally, academically and professionally.

Ready to turn your passion into a career?

Explore endless opportunities at the University of Kentucky and take the first step toward your future.

Senior Lecturer
Alicia Modenbach, PhD, PE

Director of Undergraduate Studies
Joe Dvorak, PhD, PE

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