Master of Science in Biosystems Engineering -- Program Update
A number of alumni have inquired about the admission and program requirements for the MS degree in Biosystems Engineering. Since many of you are thinking about the MS degree, and much has changed in recent years, I thought an update was in order. Also, this information may help you direct some qualified students to the department. The best form of an update is to address my “frequently asked questions”:
The MS program can be Plan A or Plan B – what’s the
difference?
Admission requirements for both programs are the same, but the degree
requirements are different:
- Plan A consists of prescribed course work and a research thesis,
- Plan B consists of prescribed course work without a thesis.
Most of our students complete Plan A programs.
What are the course requirements for the MS, Plan A?
A minimum 30 credits are required for the degree. This includes 6 to 8
credits of research with the remaining credits consisting of a combination
of regular senior and graduate level course credits.
What are the course requirements of the MS, Plan B?
A minimum 30 credits are required for the degree. All credits consist
of a combination of regular senior and graduate level course credits.
Are any specific courses required for the MS degree?
Some courses are selected to fulfill the career objectives of individual
students; however, all students (both Plan A and B students) must complete
the following 11 credit core requirement:
| BE 815 Instrumentation for Biosystems Engineering (3 credits) | |
| Description: | Theory and techniques of measuring temperature, pressure, flow, humidity, and moisture in biological materials |
BE 820 Research Methods in Biosystems Engineering (1 credit) Description: Procedures and methods for designing and executing research projects.
BE 825 Properties of Biological Materials (3 credits) Description: Determination, analysis, and modeling of engineering properties of materials encountered in biological engineering
BE 835 Engineering Analysis and Optimization of Biological Systems (3 credits) Description: Application of quantitative modeling methods to the description, analysis, design, and operation of biological systems. Dimensional analysis. Theory of models. Network design. Life-cycle assessment. Multi-criteria optimization.
BE 892 Biosystems Engineering Seminar (1 credit) Description: Current topics in biosystems engineering.
Are transfer credits allowed?
Yes, as many as 9 credits can be transferred into our MS degree program.How much time do I have to complete the program?
You’re allowed five years to complete the program starting from the time you enroll in your first course.Does MSU have a residency requirement?
A minimum of six credits must be earned in residence, on the MSU campus.How long does it take to finish the MS degree?
Full time students normally complete the program in 1.5 to 2 years.What are the admission requirements for the MS degree?
Applicants must have a BS degree in engineering or a very strong science background. Also we expect to see a grade point average greater than 3.0 for the last two years of your undergraduate program, or a standing in upper 25% of your class.How do I apply for the MS degree program in Biosystems Engineering?
Apply online through the MSU Graduate School web site:http://www.msu.edu/user/gradschl/apply.htm
Transcripts, a Statement of Purpose, three letters of recommendation, and (GRE) Scores (from the General Test) are required to complete the application process.
How can I learn more about the GRE test?
Visit the GRE web site for the latest information:Who should I contact if I have any unanswered questions?
Get is touch with me. I look forward to hearing from you.Professor James Steffe
Director of Graduate Programs
517-353-4544
steffe@msu.eduP.S. We also have an excellent PhD program. Give me a call if you’re interested.
Biosystems & Agricultural Engineering
Michigan State University
A.W. Farrall Hall
East Lansing, MI 48824-1323
(517) 355-4720Questions or comments contact: webmaster
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December 3, 2004
