Cornell University

The undergraduate Engineering Program in the Department of Biological Engineering provides training in biological systems, including the environment, that is realized through a combination of fundamental engineering sciences, biology, application courses and liberal studies. The program leads to a Bachelor of Science degree from the College of Engineering and is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).

The three concentrations in Biological Engineering offered are : Environmental Systems Engineering, Biological Engineering, and Agricultural Engineering. In each, students take courses in mathematics, computing, physics, chemistry, basic and advanced biology, fundamental engineering sciences (mechanics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials, and transport processes), engineering applications, and design. Students select applications courses in the department areas that include bioprocessing, soil and water management, bioenvironmental and facilities engineering, bioinstrumentation, engineering aspects of animal physiology, environmental systems analysis, and waste treatment and disposal. Students select other courses in the College of Engineering that strengthen their concentration, such as environmental engineering or biomedical engineering. Students planning for medical school also take organic chemistry. Emphasis is placed on developing communications and teamwork skills.

Career opportunities are in private industry, public agencies, and educational institutions. Recent graduates work in environmental consulting, biotechnology, the pharmaceutical industry, biomedical engineering, management consulting, and international agriculture. Many students pursue graduate study in engineering, science, medicine or law.