Biological Engineering
The Biological Engineering Program involves engaging students to learn to manipulate biological materials for useful purposes, to understand the biological literature, and to be able to communicate with biological scientists. Students first learn to integrate biological sciences with conventional studies in mathematics and chemistry. These skills are broadened with a liberal exposure to humanities and social sciences, then sharpened with the study of engineering topics that develop practical problem-solving abilities; expand a sensitivity to the economic, social, and legal dimensions of technical problems; provide an understanding of ethics and professional responsibility; and stimulate a desire for life-long learning. The scope involves applications in engineered biological systems, from nanoscale to watershed scale, as well as engineered life-support systems in above earth and planetary space environments.
The objectives of the Biological Engineering Program are to:
- Effective application of knowledge. Develop practical problem-solving and communication abilities to apply what is known and to convey the information to others that will contribute to biological engineering practice, advance knowledge, and contribute to society.
- Desire and ability to grow professionally. Expand the work ethic and drive to provide continuous self improvement, and expand a professional sensitivity to the economic, social, and legal dimensions of technical problems in order that engineering solutions are more holistic and applicable; and
- Ability to adjust to rapidly changing environment. Stimulate a desire for life-long learning and for adaptation to a change in direction with a rapid response as two means of extending engineering knowledge.
