B.S. in Biological Systems Engineering

Iowa State University

For the undergraduate curriculum in Biological Systems Engineering leading to the degree Bachelor of Science. Biological Systems Engineers use their understanding of science and engineering to inspire designs and solve novel problems using natural systems as inspiration. Biological Systems Engineering integrates life sciences, biology, and chemistry with engineering to develop solutions for biological and ecological systems. Biological systems scale from microbes to ecosystems. They approach analysis and design from a systems perspective, appreciating the complexity of biological systems and developing solutions that accommodate and anticipate the adaptability of biological systems. The Biological Systems Engineering program offers three focused degree options allowing students to craft their degree to match their career aspirations. Ecological Engineering: Use biology, ecology, and engineering principles to design ecosystems for the mutual benefit of humans and nature. Enjoy a career that emphasizes the design, management, and restoration of ecosystems with roles in consulting firms, governmental agencies, and industry. Food and Bioprocessing Engineering: Design and operate modern food processing systems, such as food pasteurization, sterilization, freezing, and hydration while improving the economic and environmental sustainability of biorenewable resource production systems. Enjoy a career improving the safety and quality of food by applying engineering, biology, and chemistry principles and emphasize the design and operation of industrial-scale bioconversion systems. Open Option: Craft the degree to prepare for a professional degree program outside of engineering. Enjoy a career in academia, law, or industry that has a foundation in problem solving, systems approaches, biology, and chemistry.

College of Engineering