Engineers with biological systems expertise are involved in the development, design, and manufacturing of products for the medical, chemical, and biochemical industries, as well as processes and products that prevent pollution formation or remediate polluted environments.
The goal of the Biological Engineering program at the University of Georgia is to (1) provide a fundamental understanding of biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering in line with the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, and (2) develop technical skills and learning experiences so that students can apply this understanding to design devices and processes related to biosystems and biotechnology.
The four-year program provides a balance of basic sciences, humanities, social sciences, engineering sciences, biological sciences, and courses in engineering design and analysis. Students choose from three engineering areas of emphasis – Biomedical, Biochemical or Environmental – and tailor courses to match. Course topics include mass transport and rate phenomena, biomaterials, reaction systems, biomechanics, environmental engineering, solid/hazardous waste management, and others. Prior to graduation, students must complete the Fundamentals of Engineering examination which qualifies the student for Engineer-in-Training registration (a prerequisite for Professional Engineer registration). A dual degree program is also available, which allows a student to earn a Bachelors of Science in Biological Engineering and Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health in five years.
Employment demand for engineers remains among the most favorable of all professions. Biological engineers will be essential to the solution of many process-development needs in several industries including industrial fermentation, cell culture processing, filtration, environmental consultation and regulation, and others.