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The Master of Science in Biological Systems Engineering at the University of Wisconsin offers an intensive one year academic experience designed for students who want to integrate engineering principles with biological and environmental systems. The program emphasizes advanced analytical thinking while helping learners understand how engineered solutions support sustainable production systems, resource efficiency and technological development across agriculture, industry and environmental applications. Students strengthen core competencies in system modeling, process optimization, engineering analysis and research methodology, engaging with coursework that connects theoretical engineering frameworks to applied biological challenges. Through classroom study, laboratory work and project based learning, the program supports a deep understanding of engineering tools used to manage complex biological processes.
In addition to its technical focus, the program provides a research oriented environment that encourages innovation, problem solving and critical evaluation of engineering solutions within biological contexts. Students explore modern industry practices, analyze data driven system performance and design engineering approaches that improve productivity, sustainability and environmental quality. Supported by faculty expertise and well equipped research facilities, learners develop the ability to evaluate processing systems, develop engineering strategies and assess the efficiency of integrated biological operations. By the end of the program, graduates emerge with a strong theoretical base, practical engineering experience and the analytical confidence needed for career advancement or further academic study at the doctoral level.
Semester 1 – Foundations in Biological and Industrial Engineering
• Engineering Principles in Biological Systems
• Industrial Process Modeling
• Bioprocess Fundamentals
• Research Skills for Engineering Sciences
Semester 2 – Applied Systems Analysis and Engineering Design
• Optimization Techniques for Biological Systems
• Advanced Industrial Engineering Applications
• Data Analytics for Bioprocess Engineering
• Graduate Research Project
Graduates of this program obtain a solid engineering foundation that opens the door to a wide variety of professional opportunities across technical, industrial and environmental sectors. Many secure positions in bioprocess engineering, industrial operations, agricultural technology and environmental engineering firms, where they contribute to system design, process improvement and technical evaluation. The program prepares students for roles that involve analyzing production systems, optimizing resource use, designing environmentally responsible technologies and applying engineering logic to biological processes. Professionals may work in manufacturing, biomass processing, biotechnology development, water and waste management, food engineering and environmental assessment, often collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to address complex operational challenges. Those wishing to enter research or pursue doctoral studies also benefit from the program’s strong analytical and methodological framework, which supports work in advanced engineering research units, applied science laboratories and industrial innovation centers.
This program appeals to students seeking a rigorous and application focused engineering education that blends biological understanding with industrial problem solving, allowing them to develop advanced analytical training and high level engineering skills within a concise academic structure. The curriculum encourages learners to evaluate engineering challenges through biological, environmental and industrial perspectives, fostering a balanced approach to scientific reasoning and system level thinking. Through faculty mentorship, hands on laboratory exposure, project based coursework and opportunities to analyze real engineering systems, students gain the technical confidence required to address complex operational issues. The program’s emphasis on sustainable technologies, engineering precision and practical innovation provides graduates with a competitive advantage in fields where biological systems and industrial processes intersect, making it an excellent choice for those seeking meaningful advancement in engineering and applied science.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 608-262-2433
Email: admissions@grad.wisc.edu
Address: 217 Bascom Hall, 500 Lincoln Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA