Academic Programs Catalog

College of Engineering


College of Engineering

Leo Kempel, DEAN
 



The College of Engineering prepares its students to solve technical, as well as social, economic, and global problems while instilling the essence of engineering – the iterative process of designing, predicting performance, building, and testing. Our engineering programs provide future engineers with firm knowledge and understanding of the fundamental engineering sciences, engineering methods for the application of this knowledge and the project management and communications skills to bring designs to fruition. Programs require a strong base in mathematics,  computing, and the sciences as the tools of the engineer.  An  engineering education provides a teams-based, systems approach to societal problems and therefore prepares students for a wide range of career options, including those outside engineering. 

Undergraduate Programs


Programs With a Major in the Engineering Professional Fields

The Bachelor of Science degree may be earned in programs designed to prepare students for work in biosystems engineering, chemical engineering, civil engineering, computer engineering, electrical engineering, environmental engineering, materials science and engineering, mechanical engineering and technology engineering. 


Programs With a Major in the Engineering Sciences

The Bachelor of Science degree may also be earned in engineering sciences with a major in computer science, computational data science, or applied engineering sciences. A required cognate combines the Computer Science major with studies such as business management, the social and behavioral or physical sciences, or a foreign language. The Computational Data Science major combines computing, mathematics, and statistics to provide an in-depth understanding of complex data sets. The Applied Engineering Sciences major is an interdisciplinary program that combines a broad foundation in core engineering disciplines with a required concentration area in business law, computer science, packaging, supply chain management, technical sales, or media and information. 


Engineering Education Abroad

The field of engineering increasingly requires global perspective. Education abroad provides unparalleled cultural learning experiences that can strengthen academic goals, fit degree requirements, while providing opportunities for students to study in a variety of countries. Students interested in education abroad should contact their Engineering academic advisor as early as possible.


Minors

Students who are enrolled in bachelor's degree programs in the college may elect the Minor in Environmental and Sustainability Studies. For additional information, refer to the statement on Minor in Environmental and Sustainability Studies in the College of Natural Science section of this catalog.

Students who are enrolled in bachelor’s degree programs in The Eli Broad College of Business, the College of Communication Arts and Sciences, and the College of Engineering may elect a Minor in Information Technology. For additional information, refer to the statement on Minor in Information Technology in The Eli Broad College of Business section of this catalog or contact The Eli Broad College of Business.

Students who are enrolled in the Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science in the College of Engineering may elect a Minor in Game Design and Development. For additional information, refer to the statement on Minor in Game Design and Development in the Department of Media and Information section of this catalog.


Experiential Education - The Center for Spartan Engineering

The College of Engineering offers a variety of opportunities for students to gain real-world experience in the field of engineering.  These programs prepare students for work in industry or to enter graduate programs in engineering, medicine, law, or business.  They include cooperative education, engineering internships, and undergraduate research.  Cooperative Engineering Education is a program of alternating full-time employment in industry and full-time study on campus.  Employment provides practical on-the-job experience by exposing students to types of work done by engineers.  Locations of jobs are nationwide and students are given the opportunity to explore other regions of the country. 

Engineering internships are usually one time-only, career based experiences usually completed during the summer semester. Internships provide practical on-the-job experience in the field of engineering. Undergraduate research opportunities are also available at Michigan State University and throughout the United States.  Students who are considering graduate school are encouraged to participate in an undergraduate research program for exposure to research opportunities and protocol at the graduate level. 

Each of these options can be eligible for engineering credit through a series of low cost, pass-fail experiential education courses.  Any student who completes a combination of three full-time registered experiences in a pre-professional position that have been approved and assessed by the College of Engineering will receive a Certificate of Experiential Education.   Students interested in any of these programs should contact The Center for Spartan Engineering in Room C108 Wilson Hall. 

 


Honors Study

The College of Engineering encourages honors students to develop distinctive programs of study in engineering or computer science to satisfy their Honors College requirements. Honors advisors will help students tailor a program to suit a student’s individual interests and abilities. This often includes the Honors Option by which students may earn Honors credits in courses approved by departments both within and outside the college.


Accreditation

Currently, the Biosystems Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering undergraduate programs are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org. The Computer Science undergraduate program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org.


Licensure as a Professional Engineer

In Michigan, the Michigan Board of Professional Engineering provides an opportunity for students during their senior year to take the first half of a sixteen–hour, two–part examination as the first step toward licensure, provided the degree is to be awarded within six months and the degree program is one that has been accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET or determined as equivalent by the Michigan Board of Professional Engineering. 


Freshmen

Students admitted to the university are enrolled in the Neighborhood Student Success Collaborative, but may declare a pre-engineering major preference in the College of Engineering.  Such students are guided by a professional advisor from the college. All students are encouraged to review their progress with an advisor each semester. Students become eligible for admission to the college upon completion of the requirements listed below in the Admission to the College section of this catalog.

Students interested in engineering but not yet sure of a major may be an Engineering Exploratory major until attaining 56 credits, but students are encouraged to make their major selection as early as possible.

Students who elect a pre-engineering major preference should be strongly prepared in mathematics and sciences.  Additional work in these areas is highly desirable and may make advanced placement in courses possible.  Students entering with less than the minimum mathematics prerequisites may take some of the necessary courses after  entering the University. However, such students will need additional time to complete the work for the degree.


The Engineering CoRe Experience

The CoRe Experience integrates first year engineering academics and co-curricular/residential activities to support the academic, professional, and personal growth of engineering students during their first year at Michigan State University. CoRe seeks to demonstrate to students the importance of engineering and the positive impact that engineers make on society and the world around them. Along with community and corporate partners, we bring real-world expertise and challenges into the classroom and residential environment, reinforcing the relevance of engineering to solving global challenges.

CoRe’s academic program is based on the principle that engagement in meaningful engineering experiences early in students’ undergraduate careers supports their success and persistence to graduation. Through our courses, EGR 100: Introduction to Engineering Design and EGR 102: Introduction to Engineering Modeling, we strive to engage students across the disciplines in team-based projects that pique their interest and give them a window into what professional engineering really is. CoRe co-curricular activities connect students to each other, to the College of Engineering, and to corporate partners, helping students persist and succeed as engineering students and campus citizens.


 


Supportive Services

The college provides a full range of supportive services including professional academic advising, tutoring, services for underrepresented and female students, career guidance and employment assistance, faculty connections, and peer mentors.


Admission to the College

Admission to the College of Engineering and a specific major provides access to enroll in certain courses required for the major. Enrollments in the College of Engineering are limited.

Admission is based on the cumulative grade–point average of all courses taken and a grade–point average calculated on mathematics, physical and biological sciences, and engineering courses.

For additional information, students should contact the Undergraduate Studies office in the College of Engineering.

Minimum criteria for admission to all programs except Technology Engineering are:

  1. Completion of at least 28 credits earned after matriculation to Michigan State University.
  2. Completion of Mathematics 132 and 133 with a minimum grade of 2.0 in each course.
  3. A minimum grade-point average of 2.0 in all mathematics courses.
  4. Completion of Chemistry 141 or 151 or approved substitution or waiver. Computational Data Science and Computer Science majors are not required to fulfill this requirement.
  5. Completion of Physics 183.
  6. Completion of Engineering 102 or Computer Science and Engineering 231 or Computer Science and Engineering 220 or Computational Mathematics, Science and Engineering 202 or approved substitution or waiver.
  7. Completion of Engineering 100.

Minimum criteria for admission to the Technology Engineering program:

  1. Completion of at least 28 credits earned after matriculation to Michigan State University.
  2. Completion of Mathematics 116 and 132 with a minimum grade of 2.0 in each course.
  3. A minimum grade-point average of 2.0 in all mathematics courses.
  4. Completion of Chemistry 141 or 151 or approved substitution or waiver.
  5. Completion of Physics 183 or 231.
  6. Completion of Engineering 102 or Computer Science 231.
  7. Completion of Engineering 100.

Students interested in applying for a degree-granting major in the College of Engineering may apply for admission during each semester, and applications will be reviewed after the end of each semester. Students must be admitted to a degree-granting college at the time they have completed 56 credits.


Admission to a Second Bachelor's Degree Program

Students seeking admission to a second bachelor's degree program must meet the same requirements as for admission to the college.

 


Graduation Requirements for All Majors

  1. The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of the catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Computational Data Science, Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and the Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Engineering Sciences; and 128 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in the other Engineering majors.

    Students who are enrolled in majors leading to the Bachelor of Science degree in the College of Engineering may complete an alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that consists of the following courses:
    1. One of the following courses:  Biological Science 161; Plant Biology 105;  Entomology 205; Integrative Biology 150, Microbiology and Molecular Genetics 141, 201, 301; Physiology 250.
    2. Two of the following courses:  Chemistry 141, Chemistry 151, Physics 183 or 183B,  Physics 184 or 184B. Technology Engineering majors may use Physics 231 or 232.
    3. One of the following laboratory courses:  Plant Biology 106; Chemistry 161; Physics 191. Technology Engineering majors may use Physics 251.

      Credits earned in the alternative track may also be counted toward college and major requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree.
  2. The requirements of the College of Engineering for the Bachelor of Science degree in all majors other than Technology Engineering that are listed below:
    1. Mathematics 132, 133, 234, and 235.  Computational Data Science and Computer Science majors are not required to complete Mathematics 235.
    2. Chemistry 141 or 151.  Computational Data Science and Computer Science majors are not required to complete Chemistry 141 or 151.
    3. Physics 183 or 183B and 184 or 184B.
    4. Engineering 100.
    5. One technical computing course depending on intended major: CMSE 202 (Computational Data Science), CSE 220 (Electrical Engineering), CSE 231 (Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering) or EGR 102 (all other Engineering majors).
  3. The requirements of the College of Engineering for the Bachelor of Science degree in Technology Engineering that are listed below:
    1. Mathematics 116 and 132. 
    2. Chemistry 141 or 151. 
    3. Physics 183 or 183B or 231 and 184 or 184B or 232.
    4. Engineering 100.
    5. Engineering 102.
    6. Computer Science and Engineering 231.

Students who are enrolled in bachelor's degree programs in the College of Engineering may elect a Minor in Environmental and Sustainability Studies. For additional information, refer to the Minor in Environmental and Sustainability Studies statement in the College of Natural Science section of this catalog.

Students who are enrolled in the Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Science in the College of Engineering may elect a Minor in Game Design and Development.  For additional information, refer to the Minor in Game Design and Development statement in the Department of Media and Information section of this catalog.

Students who are enrolled in bachelor’s degree programs in the College of Engineering may elect a Minor in Information Technology.  For additional information, refer to the Minor in Information Technology statement in The Eli Broad College of Business section of this catalog.


Applied Engineering Sciences

The Applied Engineering Sciences major provides undergraduate opportunities leading to the Bachelor of Science degree. The core goal of applied engineering sciences is to prepare technically competent, broad-based engineering graduates who have acquired a systems perspective for problem-solving and business expertise. The program provides a broad foundation in science and mathematics, engineering, and business management and is designed to develop graduates who can apply the rigor of their technical education to diverse problems and settings. The program is structured to establish skills in areas such as effective management, contemporary technical issues, deployment of new technologies, resolving ethical dilemmas, effective communication across technical disciplines both in oral and written communication, and lifelong learning.

Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Applied Engineering Sciences

  1. The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Engineering Sciences. Students who select the Business Analytics concentration will be required to complete 133 credits for the degree.

    The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Applied Engineering Sciences major is met by completing Applied Engineering Sciences 410.  That course is referenced in item 3. a. below.

    Students who are enrolled in the College of Engineering may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements for All Majors in the College statement.  Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track.
  2. The requirements of the College of Engineering for the Bachelor of Science degree.

    The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate.
  3. The following requirements for the major:
                   
    a.
    All of the following courses (41 credits):
    ACC 230 Survey of Accounting Concepts 3
    AESC
    210
    Global Systems: Economics, Engineering, Environment 3
    AESC 110 AES as a Profession 1
    AESC 310 Sustainable Systems Analysis 3
    AESC 410 Capstone Project in Applied Engineering Sciences 3
    CE 221 Statics 3
    CEM 161 Chemistry Laboratory I 1
    EC 201 Introduction to Microeconomics 3
    EC 202 Introduction to Macroeconomics 3
    ECE 345 Electronic Instrumentation and Systems 3
    ENE 371 Sustainable Civil and Environmental Engineering Systems 3
    ME 201 Thermodynamics 3
    ME 280 Graphic Communications 2
    MKT 317 Market analytics 3
    MSE 250 Materials Science and Engineering 3
    PHY 191 Physics Laboratory for Scientists, I 1
    b. One of the following courses (3 credits):
    COM 225 An Introduction to Interpersonal Communication 3
    MGT 325 Management Skills and Processes 3
    c. One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits):
    STT 351 Probability and Statistics for Engineering 3
    STT 380 Probability and Statistics for Data Science 4
    d. Concentration (15 to 38 credits):
    In consultation with their academic advisor, students must select one of the following concentrations: business law, computer science, packaging, supply chain management, technical sales, or media and information. For students interested in computer science, the minimum criteria for acceptance is the completion of Computer Science and Engineering 231 and 260 with a combined grade-point average in those two courses of 3.0. The concentration will be noted on the student’s academic record.
    Business Analytics (38 credits)
    1. All of the following courses (15 credits):
    EC 301 Intermediate Microeconomics 3
    FI 320 Introduction to Finance 3
    GBL 385 Business Law and Ethical Leadership 3
    MKT 327 Introduction to Marketing 3
    SCM 303 Introduction to Supply Chain Management 3
    2. Completion of the Minor in Data Science  23
    Business Law (16 or 17 credits)
    1. All of the following courses (13 credits):
    EC 301 Intermediate Microeconomics 3
    EC 425 Law and Economics (W) 3
    GBL 385 Business Law and Ethical Leadership 3
    GBL 480 Environmental Law and Sustainability for Business:
    From Local to Global  3
    PHY 192 Physics Laboratory for Scientists, II 1
    2. One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits):
    PHL 345 Business Ethics 4
    PHL 354 Philosophy of Law 3
    PLS 320 Judicial Politics 3
    PLS 321 Constitutional Law 3
    PLS 322 Comparative Legal Systems 3
    Computer Science (18 or 19 credits)
    1. All of the following courses (12 credits):
    CSE 231 Introduction to Programming I 44
    CSE 232 Introduction to Programming II 4
    CSE 260 Discrete Structures in Computer Science 4
    2. Two of the following courses (6 or 7 credits):
    CSE 320 Computer Organization and Architecture 3
    CSE 325 Computer Systems 3
    CSE 331 Algorithms and Data Structures 3
    CSE 335 Object-oriented Software Design 4
    CSE 404 Introduction to Machine Learning 3
    CSE 420 Computer Architecture 3
    CSE 429 Interdisciplinary Topics in Cyber Security 3
    CSE 431 Algorithm Engineering 3
    CSE 440 Introduction to Artificial Intelligence 3
    CSE 471 Media Processing and Multimedia Computing 3
    CSE 472 Computer Graphics 3
    CSE 476 Mobile Application Development 3
    CSE 477 Web Application Architecture and Development 3
    CSE 480 Database Systems 3
    CSE 482 Big Data Analysis 3
    Packaging (17 credits):
    All of the following courses
    CEM 143 Survey of Organic Chemistry 4
    PKG 101 Principles of Packaging 3
    PKG 221 Packaging with Glass and Metal 2
    PKG 322 Packaging with Paper and Paperboard 4
    PKG 323 Packaging with Plastics 4
    Supply Chain Management (15 credits)
    All of the following courses:
    FI 320 Introduction to Finance 3
    MKT 327 Introduction to Marketing 3
    SCM 303 Introduction to Supply Chain Management 3
    SCM 371 Procurement and Supply Management 3
    SCM 372 Manufacturing Planning and Control 3
    Technical Sales (18 credits)
    All of the following courses:
    COM 360 Advanced Sales Communication 3
    COM 483 Practicum in Sales Communication 1
    FI 320 Introduction to Finance 3
    MGT 474 Negotiations 2
    MKT 313 Consultative Selling 3
    MKT 327 Introduction to Marketing 3
    MKT 383 Sales Management 3

Minor in Energy

The Minor in Energy, administered by the College of Engineering, provides students with a foundation in energy science that focuses on topics of fundamental physical principles guiding energy generation, utilization, conservation, engineering applications and the impact of energy within a societal and geological context. Students gain a perspective in energy science that is applicable to many disciplines and highly interdisciplinary. It offers opportunities for students to prepare to work in industry, research, or government, as well as preparation for graduate studies in energy science.

The minor is available as an elective to students who are enrolled in bachelor’s degree programs in the College of Engineering. With the approval of the department and college that administer the student’s degree program, the courses that are used to satisfy the minor may also be used to satisfy the requirements for the bachelor’s degree. At least 9 credits counted towards the requirements for this minor must be unique. Unique credits must not be used to fulfill another university, college, or major requirement in the student’s program.

Students who plan to complete the requirements of the minor should consult the undergraduate advisor in the College of Engineering. Students accepted into the minor must be admitted to the College of Engineering and have completed items 1. and 2. of the requirements stated below. Enrollment for some courses may not be available and may be limited. Application forms are available at https://www.egr.msu.edu/forms/forms/undergraduate-studies/application-form-minor-energy.

Requirements for the Minor in Energy

Complete a minimum of 21 credits from the following. 

1.   One of the following course (3 credits):
BE 230 Engineering Analysis of Biological Systems 3
CHE 201 Material and Energy Balances 3
MSE 250 Materials Science and Engineering 3
2. One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits):
BE 351 Thermodynamics for Biological Engineering 3
CHE 321 Thermodynamics for Chemical Engineering 4
ECE 320 Energy Conversion and Power Electronics 3
ME 201 Thermodynamics 3
MSE 310 Phase Equilibria in Materials 3
3. One of the following courses (3 credits):
BE 456 Electric Power and Control 3
ECE 302 Electronic Circuits 3
ECE 345 Electronic Instrumentation and Systems 3
4. One of the following courses (3 credits):
CE 473 Smart and Sustainable Building Design and Operations 3
ENE 472 Life Cycle Assessment of Energy Technologies 3
ME 417 Design of Alternative Energy Systems 3
MSE 410 Materials Foundations for Energy Applications 3
5. One of the following courses (3 credits):
AESC 310 Sustainable Systems Analysis 3
CE 371 Sustainable Civil and Environmental Engineering Systems 3
CSUS 200 Introduction to Sustainability 3
EEM 255 Ecological Economics 3
6. Two of the following courses (6 to 8 credits):
AFRE 829 Economics of Environmental Resources 3
BE 469 Sustainable Bioenergy Systems 3
CE 473 Smart and Sustainable Building Design and Operations 3
CEM 485 Modern Nuclear Chemistry 3
CHE 468 Biomass Conversion Engineering 3
CSS 467 BioEnergy Feedstock Production 3
CSUS 200 Introduction Sustainability 3
CSUS 259 Sustainable Energy and Society 3
CSUS 491 Special Topics in Community Sustainability 1 to 3
ECE 423 Power System Analysis 3
ECE 425 Solid State Power Conversion 3
ECE 476 Electro-Optics 4
ECE 821 Advanced Power Electronics and Applications 3
EEM 320 Environmental Economics 3
ENE 472 Life Cycle Assessment of Energy Technologies 3
ENE 489 Air Pollution: Science and Engineering 3
FOR 414 Renewable Wood Products 3
GLG 201 The Dynamic Earth 4
GLG 301 Geology of the Great Lakes 3
GLG 471 Applied Geophysics 4
MC 450 International Environmental Law and Policy 3
ME 417 Design of Alternative Energy Systems 3
ME 422 Introduction to Combustion 3
ME 442 Turbomachinery 3
ME 444 Automotive Engines 3
MSE 410 Materials Foundations for Energy Applications 3
MSE 460 Electronic Structure and Bonding in Materials and Devices 3
TSM 130 Energy Efficiency and Conservation in Agricultural Systems 3
A course used to fulfill requirement 4. or 5. above may not be used to fulfill requirement 6. Not all courses will be available to all majors and students must meet all course prerequisites and restrictions.
 

 

Graduate Study

The College of Engineering offers programs leading to the Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in the following fields:

    biomedical engineering    
    chemical engineering
    civil engineering
    computational mathematics, science and engineering
    computer science
    electrical engineering
    engineering mechanics
    environmental engineering
    materials science and engineering
    mechanical engineering

Programs leading to the Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in biosystems engineering are offered through the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

All programs are designed to provide a fundamental approach to basic engineering principles with emphasis on scientific methods, and to lead to careers in engineering research and development or teaching. Advanced work in the major field of specialization is combined with supporting courses in one or more other fields to develop individuals capable of creative work in engineering science and areas of application.


Master of Science

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university as described in the Graduate Education section of this catalog, students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

Regular Status. Admission to a master's degree program with regular status may be granted by the department, subject to the availability of resources and to the approval of the dean, upon consideration of the likelihood that the applicant will be able to pursue a master's program successfully without taking collateral courses. As evidence of eligibility for admission, the student may offer any of the following:

  1. The possession of a bachelor's degree in an accredited program in engineering with a grade–point average not lower than 3.00 for the final two years of the undergraduate program, or with standing in the upper quarter of the graduating class in the student's major.
  2. The possession of a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field where the applicant has shown very high academic achievement, as certified by the department.
  3. Evidence of ability and resolution to complete a master's program, as attested by the department upon review of the applicant's academic record, test scores, experience, reference statements, professional qualifications, proposed studies, and other relevant information.

Provisional Status. Admission to a master's degree program with provisional status may be granted by the department, subject to the approval of the dean:

  1. To an applicant qualified for regular admission except that collateral courses are deemed necessary, or
  2. To an applicant whose record is incomplete.

If collateral courses are required, the minimum acceptable grades and the semesters by which those courses must be completed will be specified on the admission form. The provisional status will be changed to regular status when the conditions specified on the admission form have been met, as certified by the department and approved by the dean.

Program Filing

The student's program of study must be approved before the student completes 6 credits of graduate work in order for the student to continue to enroll in the  master's degree program.

For any independent study or selected topics course that is included in the student's approved program of study, the subject material and the instructor must be specified.

Modification of Program

With reference to the student's approved program of study, none of the following types of changes will be approved:

  1. Adding or deleting a course for which a grade has already been assigned under any of the three grading systems (numerical, Pass–No Grade, or Credit–No Credit).
  2. Adding or deleting a course for which grading was postponed by the use of the DF–Deferred marker.
  3. Adding or deleting a course which the student dropped after the middle of the semester and for which “W” or “N” or “0.0" was designated.
  4. Adding or deleting a course during the final semester of enrollment in the master's degree program.

Requirements for the Master of Science Degree

The student must:

  1. Complete a minimum of 30 credits in 400–, 800–, and 900–level courses  under either Plan A (with thesis) or Plan B (without thesis).  Courses below the 400 level may not be counted toward the requirements for the degree.
    1. Requirements for Plan A:  The student must:
      1. Complete a minimum of 20 credits in courses at the 800–900 level.  
      2. Complete at least 4, but not more than 8, credits in Master's Thesis Research (course number 899 in the department of the student's major).
      3. Provide to the major professor and to the department a hard–bound copy of the thesis made from the original unbound manuscript submitted to the Office of The Graduate School.  Arrangements for delivery of the copies shall be made when the original manuscript is submitted to the Office of The Graduate School. 
    2. Requirements for Plan B:  The student must:
      1. Complete a minimum of 18 credits in courses at the 800–900 level. 
  2. Pass the final certifying examination administered by the student's department.  It is the student's responsibility to obtain detailed information about this examination from the department.

Academic Standards

  1. Grades.  The student must earn a grade of 2.0 or higher in each course in the approved program of study.  The student must repeat any course for which the grade earned was below 2.0.
  2. Cumulative Grade–Point Average.  The student must maintain a cumulative grade–point average of at least 3.00 in the courses in the approved program of study.
  3. Probational Status.  A student is placed on probational status if the student's cumulative grade–point average for the courses in the approved program of study is below 3.00.  A student in probational status is not  allowed to carry more than 7 credits per semester or to enroll in any course the primary focus of which is independent study.
  4. Retention In and Dismissal From the Program.
    1. Cumulative Grade–Point Average.  Should a student's cumulative grade–point average fall below 3.00 after having completed 16 or more credits in courses in the approved program of study, the student may be enrolled in probational status in the master's degree program for one additional semester.  If at the end of the additional semester the student's cumulative grade–point average is 3.00 or higher, the student may continue to enroll in the master's degree program.  If at the end of the additional semester the student's cumulative grade–point average is still below 3.00, the student will be dismissed from the program.
    2. Academic Progress and Professional Potential.  Each student's academic progress and professional potential are evaluated by March 15 of each year.  A student who in the judgment of the faculty is making satisfactory academic progress and has professional potential may continue to enroll in the master's degree program.  A student who in the judgment of the faculty is not making satisfactory academic progress or lacks professional potential will be dismissed from the program.

Transfer Credits

As a member of the Michigan Coalition for Engineering Education (MCEE), Michigan State University will accept up to one less than half of the course credits required for the Master of Science degree program in the College of Engineering in transfer from other MCEE member institutions provided that (1) the student earned a grade of at least 3.0, or the equivalent, in the related courses; (2) the credits were not earned in research or thesis courses; and (3) the total number of credits accepted in transfer from MCEE member institutions and from other institutions does not exceed one less than half of the credits required.

 


Doctor of Philosophy

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university as described in the Graduate Education section of this catalog, students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

Regular Status. Admission to a doctoral degree program with regular status may be granted by the department, subject to the availability of resources and to the approval of the dean, upon consideration of the likelihood that the applicant will be able to pursue a doctoral program successfully without taking collateral courses. As evidence of eligibility for admission, the student may offer any of the following:

  1. The possession of a master's degree in engineering or a related field.
  2. The completion of the equivalent of a master's degree program in the major field.
  3. Evidence of ability and resolution to complete a doctoral program, as attested by the department upon review of the applicant's academic record, test scores, experience, reference statements, professional qualifications, proposed studies, and other relevant information.

    Admission to the doctoral program without a master's degree, or the equivalent thereof, will require special consideration by the department and the dean.

    Provisional Status. Admission to a doctoral degree program with provisional status may be granted by the department, subject to the approval of the dean:
    1. To an applicant qualified for regular admission except that collateral courses are deemed necessary, or
    2. To an applicant whose record is incomplete.

      If collateral courses are required, the minimum acceptable grades and the semesters by which those courses must be completed will be specified on the admission form. The provisional status will be changed to regular status when the conditions specified on the admission form have been met, as determined by the department and approved by the dean.

Guidance Committee

The student's guidance committee is appointed by the department chairperson in consultation with the student and the appropriate faculty members, and with the approval of the dean.  At least two members of the guidance committee shall be from the major department and at least one member shall be from a department outside of the major department.  The chairperson of the guidance committee will be appointed by the department chairperson after consultation with the student and the person recommended to chair the committee.

Guidance Committee Report

The student's program of study shall be submitted for approval to the department and to the Dean by no later than the end of the student's second semester of enrollment in the doctoral program.  For any independent study or selected topics course that is included in the student's program of study, the subject material and the instructor must be specified.
The student's program of study must be approved in order for the student to continue to enroll in the doctoral degree program beyond the second semester.  

Modification of Program

With reference to the student's approved guidance committee report, none of the following types of changes will be approved:

  1. Adding or deleting a course for which a grade has already been assigned under any of the three grading systems (numerical, Pass–No Grade, or Credit–No Credit).
  2. Adding or deleting a course for which grading was postponed by the use of the DF–Deferred marker.
  3. Adding or deleting a course which the student dropped after the middle of the semester and for which “W” or “N” or “0.0" was designated.
  4. Adding or deleting a course during the final semester of enrollment in the doctoral degree program.

Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree

The student must:

  1. Pass the qualifying examination administered by the student's department.  It is the student's responsibility to obtain detailed information about this examination from the department.
  2. Pass the doctoral comprehensive examination at least six months prior to the final oral examination in defense of the dissertation.  The examination may be retaken no more than twice.  It is the student's responsibility to obtain detailed information about this examination from the department. 
  3. Provide to the major professor and to the department a hard–bound copy of the dissertation made from the original unbound manuscript submitted to the Office of the Graduate School.  Arrangements for delivery of the copies shall be made when the original manuscript is submitted to the Office of The Graduate School.

Academic Standards

  1. Grades.  The student must earn a grade of 2.0 or higher in each course in the approved guidance committee report, including collateral courses and courses accepted in transfer.  The student must repeat any course for which the grade earned was below 2.0.
  2. Cumulative Grade–Point Average.  The student must maintain a cumulative grade–point average of at least 3.00 in courses in the approved guidance committee report, with the exception of collateral courses and courses accepted in transfer.
  3. Deferred Grades.  A student may accumulate no more than 3 deferred grades (identified by the DF–Deferred marker) in courses other than those courses the primary focus of which is independent study.
  4. Probational Status.  A student is placed on probational status if either or both of the following conditions apply:
    1. The student's cumulative grade–point average for the courses in the approved guidance committee report is below 3.00.
    2. The student has accumulated more than three deferred grades (identified by the DF–Deferred marker) in courses other than those courses the primary focus of which is independent study.

      A student in probational status is not allowed to carry more than 7 credits per semester or to enroll in any course the primary focus of which is independent study.
  5. Retention In and Dismissal From the Program.
    1. Cumulative Grade–point Average.  Should a student's cumulative grade–point average fall below 3.00 after having completed half of the courses in the approved guidance committee report, the student may be enrolled in probational status in the doctoral degree program for one additional semester.  If at the end of the additional semester the student's cumulative grade–point average is 3.00 or higher, the student may continue to enroll in the doctoral degree program.  If at the end of the additional semester the student's cumulative grade–point average is still below 3.00, the student will be dismissed from the program.
    2. Deferred Grades.  Should a student accumulate more than 3 deferred grades (identified by the DF–Deferred marker) in courses other than those courses the primary focus of which is independent study, the student may be enrolled on probational status in the doctoral degree program for one additional semester.  If at the end of the additional semester the student has no more than 3 deferred grades, the student may continue to enroll in the doctoral degree program.  If at the end of the additional semester the student still has more than 3 deferred grades, the student will be dismissed from the program.
    3. Academic Progress and Professional Potential.  Each student's academic progress and professional potential are evaluated by March 15 of each year.  A student who in the judgment of the faculty is making satisfactory academic progress and has professional potential may continue to enroll in the doctoral degree program.  A student who in the judgment of the faculty is not making satisfactory academic progress or lacks professional potential will be dismissed from the program.

 


Graduate Specialization in Environmental Toxicology

The College of Engineering, the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the College of Natural Science, and the College of Veterinary Medicine administer the Graduate Specialization in Environmental Toxicology. The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources is the primary administrative unit. For additional information, refer to the Graduate Specialization in Environmental Toxicology statement in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources section of this catalog.


Department of Biomedical Engineering

Adam Alessio, Chairperson


The mission of the Department of Biomedical Engineering is to train young investigators in quantitative analyses, engineering principles and innovative design concepts for the purpose of using these approaches to create novel solutions to the most pressing healthcare needs. These approaches are used to drive the principles of precision health by enabling predictive analytics, real time monitoring, early diagnosis, rapid intervention, and quantitative measures of outcome from basic science to practical application with an overarching goal to improve human health.

 

Graduate Study


Biomedical Engineering - Master of Science

The Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Engineering prepares graduates to review technical literature related to a biomedical engineering research problem and communicate those results through oral presentations and written publications.

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university, and of the College of Engineering, students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

For admission to the master’s degree in biomedical engineering on regular status, the student must:

  1. have a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering or related field;
  2. have a grade-point average that would indicate success in graduate study.
Applicants who are admitted without a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering may be required to complete collateral course work to make up deficiencies. Collateral course work will not count towards the fulfillment of degree requirements.

International applicants are required to submit their scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).

Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Engineering

The master’s degree program in biomedical engineering is available under either Plan A (with thesis) or Plan B (without thesis). A total of 30 credits is required for the degree. The student’s program of study is selected in consultation with a faculty advisor and the graduate program director. No more than 6 credits of 400-level courses may be counted towards the degree requirements.

Student’s must complete the following core course:
BME    803    Research Methods        3

Additional Requirements for Plan A
  1. Completion of the following course:
    BME    892    Biomedical Engineering Seminar        1
  2. Complete of at least 4, but not more than 8, credits of BME 899 Master’s Thesis Research.
  3. Pass a final oral examination in defense of the thesis.
Additional Requirements for Plan B
  1. Pass a final examination or evaluation.

 

Biomedical Engineering - Doctor of Philosophy

The Doctor of Philosophy degree in Biomedical Engineering prepares graduates to review technical literature related to a biomedical engineering research problem and communicate those results through oral presentations and written publications.

In addition to meeting the requirements of the university, and of the College of Engineering, students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

For admission to the doctoral degree in biomedical engineering on regular status, the student must:

  1. have a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering or related field;
  2. have a grade-point average that would indicate success in graduate study.
Applicants who are admitted without a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering may be required to complete collateral course work to make up deficiencies. Collateral course work will not count towards the fulfillment of degree requirements.

International applicants are required to submit their scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).

Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Biomedical Engineering

The doctoral degree program in biomedical engineering program of study is selected in consultation with a faculty advisor and the graduate program director. A minimum of 22 credits of course work beyond the bachelor’s degree is required in addition to doctoral dissertation research. No more than 6 credits of 400-level courses may be counted towards the degree requirements.

Student’s must complete the following:
1. All of the following core courses:
BME 803 Research Methods 3
BME 840 BioDesignIQ I 3
BME 841 BioDesignIQ II 3
BME 892 Biomedical Engineering Seminar 1
2. Complete at least 12 credits in thematic elective courses at the 800-level or above. Must include an engineering science course, a life science course, a mathematics/statistics/computational course, and another elective course chosen from a list of approved courses maintained by the department.
3. Successful completion of the written and oral portions of the comprehensive examination by the end of the 4th semester in the program.
4. Complete 24 credits of BME 999 Doctoral Dissertation Research.
5. Successful completion of a dissertation and final oral examination in defense of the dissertation.


 

Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering

Bradley P. Marks, Chairperson

The mission of the Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering is to improve quality of life by integrating and applying principles of engineering and biology to systems involving food, environment, energy, and health. The Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering is administered jointly by the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the College of Engineering.  

 


Undergraduate Program

The department offers a Bachelor of Science degree program with a major in biosystems engineering through the College of Engineering. A Minor in Smart Agricultural Systems is also available. Those programs are described below.

The department also offers a Minor in Technology Systems Management through the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.  For information about that program, refer to the statement on the Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources section of this catalog.

Students who are enrolled in the Bachelor of Science degree program with a major in biosystems engineering may elect a Minor in Plant, Animal and Microbial Biotechnology.  For additional information, refer to the Minor in Plant, Animal and Microbial Biotechnology statement in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources section of this catalog.


Biosystems Engineering

Bachelor of Science

Biosystems engineers design solutions to technical problems that involve a critical biological component. They apply quantitative skills to create products, processes, and systems that improve human existence. Working at the interface of engineering and biology, biosystems engineers are engaged in the most important challenges of our time.

Biosystems engineers may, for example, design pathogen control processes to protect the safety of our food supply, constructed wetlands to improve water quality and quantity, biomass conversion processes to sustainably supply renewable energy and products, and/or diagnostic and risk modeling systems to protect and enhance human and animal health. Biosystems engineers are sought after by a wide variety of employers that need creative individuals to integrate principles of engineering and biology, including food manufacturers, environmental consulting firms, health industries, and government agencies.

The Bachelor of Science Degree program in Biosystems Engineering is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, www.abet.org.

Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in  Biosystems Engineering

  1. The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 128 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Biosystems Engineering.
    The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Biosystems Engineering major is met by completing Biosystems Engineering 334 or 485.  These courses are referenced in item 3. a below.

    Students who are enrolled in the College of Engineering may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements for All Majors in the College statement.  Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track.
  2. The requirements of the College of Engineering for the Bachelor of Science degree.

    The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate.
  3. The following requirements for the major:
    a. All of the following courses (47 credits):
    BE 101 Introduction to Biosystems Engineering 1
    BE 201 Drafting in Biosystems Engineering 1
    BE 230 Engineering Analysis of Biological Systems 3
    BE 332 Engineering Properties of Biological Materials 3
    BE 334 Biosystems Engineering Laboratory Practice (W) 3
    BE 350 Heat and Mass Transfer in Biosystems 3
    BE 351 Thermodynamics for Biological Engineering 3
    BE 360 Microbial Systems Engineering 3
    BE 385 Engineering Design and Optimization for Biological Systems 3
    BE 485 Biosystems Design Techniques (W) 3
    BE 487 Biosystems Design Project  3
    BS 161 Cell and Molecular Biology 3
    BS 162 Organismal and Population Biology 3
    CE 221 Statics 3
    CE 321 Introduction to Fluid Mechanics 4
    CEM 143 Survey of Organic Chemistry 4
    CEM 151 General and Descriptive Chemistry 4
    CEM 161 Chemistry Laboratory I 1
    b. One of the following courses (2 credits):
    BS 171 Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory 2
    BS 172 Organismal and Population Biology Laboratory 2
    c. One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits):
    IBIO 341 Fundamental Genetics 4
    IBIO 355 Ecology 3
    MMG 301 Introductory Microbiology 3
    PLB 301 Introductory Plant Physiology 3
    PSL 250 Introductory Physiology 4
    d. One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits):
    CSS 442 Agricultural Ecology 3
    CSS 451 Biotechnology Applications for Plant Breeding and Genetics 3
    FOR 406 Applied Forest Ecology: Silviculture 3
    FSC 440 Food Microbiology 3
    MMG 365 Medical Microbiology 3
    MMG 404 Human Genetics 3
    MMG 425 Microbial Ecology 3
    MMG 445 Microbial Biotechnology (W) 3
    PLB 402 Biology of Fungi 4
    PSL 425 Physiological Biophysics 3
    e. Four of the following courses (12 credits):
    BE 444 Biosensors for Medical Diagnostics  3
    BE 449 Human Health Risk Analysis for Engineering Controls 3
    BE 456 Electric Power and Control 3
    BE 469 Sustainable Bioenergy Systems 3
    BE 477 Food Engineering: Fluids  3
    BE 478 Food Engineering: Solids  3
    BE 481 Water Resources Systems Analysis and Modeling 3
    BE 482 Engineering Ecological Treatment Systems 3
    BE 484 Water Resource Recovery Engineering 3
    CHE 468 Biomass Conversion Engineering 3

Concentrations in Biosystems Engineering

The department offers concentrations for students who wish to focus on a specific application area in the discipline. The concentrations are available to, but not required of, any student enrolled in the Bachelor of Science degree program in Biosystems Engineering. Courses completed to satisfy requirement 3. above may also be used to satisfy the requirements of a concentration. The concentration will be noted on the students transcript.

Bioenergy and Bioproduct Engineering
To earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Biosystems Engineering with a bioenergy and bioproduct engineering concentration, students must complete degree requirements 1., 2., and 3. above and the following:

1. All of the following courses (9 credits):
BE 469 Sustainable Bioenergy Systems 3
CHE 468 Biomass Conversion Engineering 3
CSS 467 Bioenergy Feedstock Production 3
2. Two of the following courses (6 to 8 credits):
CHE 481 Biochemical Engineering 3
CSS 442 Agricultural Ecology 3
CSS 451 Biotechnology Applications for Plant Breeding and Genetics 3
FOR 406 Applied Forest Ecology: Silviculture 3
FOR 427 Biomass and Bioproducts Chemistry 3
FOR 466 Natural Resource Policy 3
FW 444 Conservation Biology 3
GLG 435 Geomicrobiology 4
MC 450 International Environmental Law and Policy 3
ME 417 Design of Alternative Energy Systems 3
ME 422 Introduction to Combustion 3
MMG 425 Microbial Ecology 3
MMG 445 Microbial Biotechnology (W) 3
PLB 402 Biology of Fungi 4

Biomedical Engineering
To earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Biosystems Engineering with a biomedical engineering concentration, students must complete degree requirements 1., 2., and 3. above and the following:

1. Both of the following courses (6 credits):
BE 444 Biosensors for Medical Diagnostics  3
BE 449 Human Health Risk Analysis for Engineering Controls 3
2. One of the following courses (3 credits):
MMG 365 Medical Microbiology 3
MMG 404 Human Genetics 3
PSL 425 Physiological Biophysics 3
3. Two of the following courses (5 or 6 credits):
BE 440 Entrepreneurial Engineering for Innovation in Health and Safety 3
BLD 204 Mechanisms of Disease 3
BLD 313 Quality in Clinical Laboratory Practice
BLD 430 Molecular Diagnostics 2
BLD 434 Clinical Immunology 3
ECE 445 Biomedical Instrumentation 3
ME 494 Biofluid Mechanics and Heat Transfer 3
MMG 365 Medical Microbiology 3
MMG 404 Human Genetics 3
MSE 425 Biomaterials and Biocompatability 3
PLB 400 Introduction to Bioinformatics   3
PSL 425 Physiological Biophysics 3
Courses used to fulfill requirement 2. in this concentration may not be used to fulfill this requirement.

Ecosystems Engineering
To earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Biosystems Engineering with a ecosystems engineering concentration, students must complete degree requirements 1., 2., and 3. above and the following:

1. All of the following courses (9 credits):
BE 481 Water Resources Systems Analysis and Modeling 3
BE 482 Engineering Ecological Treatment Systems 3
BE 484 Water Resource Recovery Engineering 3
2. One of the following courses (3 credits):
CSS 442 Agricultural Ecology 3
MMG 425 Microbial Ecology 3
3. Two of the following courses (5 or 6 credits):
CSS 210 Fundamentals of Soil Science 3
CSS 330 Soil Chemistry 2
CSS 360 Soil Biology 3
CSS 442 Agricultural Ecology 3
CSS 455 Environmental Pollutants in Soil and Water 3
ENE 422 Applied Hydraulics 3
FOR 340 Forest Ecology 3
FW 417 Wetland Ecology and Management 3
FW 420 Stream Ecology 3
FW 444 Conservation Biology 3
GEO 402 Agricultural Climatology 3
MC 450 International Environmental Law and Policy 3
MMG 425 Microbial Ecology 3
PLB 418 Plant Systematics 3
PLB 443 Restoration Ecology 3
Courses used to fulfill requirement 2. in this concentration may not be used to fulfill this requirement.

Food Engineering
To earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Biosystems Engineering with a food engineering concentration, students must complete degree requirements 1., 2., and 3. above and the following:

1. All of the following courses (9 credits):
BE 477 Food Engineering: Fluids 3
BE 478 Food Engineering: Solids 3
FSC 440 Food Microbiology 3
2. Two of the following courses, one of which must be at the 400-level (6 or 7 credits):
BMB 200 Introduction to Biochemistry 4
FSC 211 Principles of Food Science 3
FSC 401 Food Chemistry 3
FSC 430 Food Processing: Fruits and Vegetables  3
FSC 431 Food Processing: Cereals 3
FSC 432 Food Processing: Dairy Foods   3
FSC 433 Food Processing: Muscle Foods   3


 


Minor in Smart Agricultural Systems

The Minor in Smart Agricultural Systems, which is administered by the Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, is available for students with majors in Applied Engineering Sciences, Biosystems Engineering, Computational Data Science, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Lyman Briggs Computer Science who are interested in smart technology for management decision support and who plan to pursue careers in agriculture or natural resources. The minor will provide an opportunity for students to gain a working knowledge of digital technologies necessary to monitor and manage aspects of agriculture, food, natural resources, and bioenergy systems.

With the approval of the department and college that administer the student’s degree program, the courses that are used to satisfy the minor may also be used to satisfy the requirements for the bachelor’s degree. At least 10 unique credits counted towards the requirements for a student’s minor must not be used to fulfill the requirements for that student’s major.

Students who plan to complete the requirements of the minor should consult the Smart Agricultural Systems minor program coordinator in the Department of Biosystems Engineering and have their program of study approved in advance and in writing.

Requirements for the Minor in Smart Agricultural Systems

Students must complete a minimum of 16 credits from the following:

1. All of the following courses (10 credits):
BE` 221 Introduction to Smart Agriculture 1
BE 321 Principles of Precision Agriculture 3
BE 421 Sensors and Robotics for Agricultural Systems 3
BE 422 Crop Modeling and Optimization 3
2. Two of the following courses (6 or 7 credits):
BE 449 Human Health Risk Analysis for Engineering Controls 3
BE 456 Electric Power and Control 3
BE 481 Water Resources Systems Analysis and Modeling 3
BE 482 Engineering Ecological Treatment Systems 3
CSE 404 Introduction to Machine Learning 3
CSE 440 Introduction to Artificial Intelligence 3
CSE 480 Database Systems 3
CSE 482 Big Data Analysis 3
CSS 467 Bioenergy Feedstock Production 3
ECE 416 Digital Control 3
ECE 417 Robotics 3
ECE 431 Smart Sensor Systems 3
ECE 434 Autonomous Vehicles 3
ECE 477 Microelectronic Fabrication 3
ME 417 Design of Alternative Energy Systems 3
ME 451 Control Systems 4
ME 456 Mechatronic System Design 3

 

Graduate Study

The department offers Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy programs in biosystems engineering through the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.  For information about those programs, refer to the statement on the Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources section of this catalog.


Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science

Christina Chan, Chairperson

The undergraduate and graduate programs of the Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science have been training top-quality graduates for over 75 years. Graduates from the Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science are highly sought after to create solutions for important technological and societal problems. The faculty is dedicated to strong classroom instruction and world-class research focused in the areas of energy and sustainability, advanced materials and nanotechnology, and biotechnology and bioengineering. 


Undergraduate Programs

The Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science offers two Bachelor of Science degree programs, one in chemical engineering and one in materials science and engineering. Students learn to convert low-value raw materials into high-value products. Students learn how to analyze and understand different processes and how, at the macroscopic, microstructural, and atomistic/molecular levels, these processes  result in different properties in the final product. Emphasis is placed on developing students who understand the technical aspects of production, the environmental, economic, and societal impact of engineering, and who possess a desire for lifelong learning and growth. Optional concentrations are available for students to focus their programs of study on areas of particular interest.

Graduates are trained to succeed in multidisciplinary teams that interface between disciplines. They work across a broad spectrum of fields including industrial chemicals, automotive, metals, plastics, petroleum processing, pharmaceuticals, textiles, food, electronics, energy related materials, sensors, and biomedical technology. Within these fields, our graduates are involved in research and development of products and processes, in the design and operation of manufacturing facilities, and in management and product quality control.
 


Chemical Engineering

Chemical engineers convert raw materials to finished products via pathways involving chemical and physical changes. The principles of mass, energy, and momentum conservation, chemical reactions, thermodynamics, and economics are applied to develop new products and to design and operate manufacturing facilities to produce products that benefit society. Chemical engineering principles are, in turn, based on the sciences of chemistry, biology, mathematics, and physics, which form the underlying foundation of the discipline.

Students in this degree program will study the application of chemical engineering principles to biochemical and biomedical systems, nanoscale devices, polymer processing, and novel energy systems. Principles of sustainability, environmentally-friendly “green” processing, entrepreneurship, and other emerging topics are also addressed in courses and concentrations.

The Bachelor of Science Degree program in Chemical Engineering is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, www.abet.org under the General Criteria and the Program Criteria for Chemical, Biochemical, Biomolecular and Similarly Named Engineering Programs.

Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemical Engineering

  1. The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 128 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering.

    The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Chemical Engineering major is met by completing Chemical Engineering 316 and 433.  Those courses are referenced in item 3. a. below.

    Students who are enrolled in the College of Engineering may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements for All Majors in the College statement. The alternative track requirement for Integrative Studies in Biological Sciences in Chemical Engineering is Biological Science 161. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track.
  2. The requirements of the College of Engineering for the Bachelor of Science degree.

    The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate.
  3. The following requirements for the major:
    a. All of the following courses (58 credits):
    BS 161 Cell and Molecular Biology 3
    CEM 151 General and Descriptive Chemistry 4
    CEM 152 Principles of Chemistry 3
    CEM 161 Chemistry Laboratory I 1
    CEM 162 Chemistry Laboratory II 1
    CEM 351 Organic Chemistry I 3
    CEM 352 Organic Chemistry II 3
    CEM 355 Organic Laboratory I 2
    CHE 201 Material and Energy Balances 3
    CHE 210 Modeling and Analysis of Transport Phenomena 3
    CHE 301 Chemical Engineering as a Profession 1
    CHE 311 Fluid Flow and Heat Transfer 3
    CHE 312 Mass Transfer and Separations 4
    CHE 316 Laboratory Practice and Statistical Analysis 4
    CHE 321 Thermodynamics for Chemical Engineering 4
    CHE 431 Chemical Reaction Engineering 4
    CHE 432 Process Analysis and Control 3
    CHE 433 Process Design and Optimization I 4
    CHE 434 Process Design and Optimization II 2
    CHE 473 Chemical Engineering Principles in Polymers and Material Systems 3
    b. One of the following (4 or 6 credits):
    (1) BMB 401 Comprehensive Biochemistry 4
    (2) BMB 461 Advanced Biochemistry I 3
    BMB 462 Advanced Biochemistry II 3
    Note: If BMB 462 is taken to fulfill requirements 3. b., it will also count as a technical elective in item 3. e.
    c. One of the following courses (3 credits):
    CHE 472 Polymeric Composite Materials Processing 3
    CHE 481 Biochemical Engineering 3
    d. One of the following courses (3 credits):
    CEM 483 Quantum Chemistry 3
    CEM 484 Molecular Thermodynamics 3
    e. Technical Electives.
    Students must complete at least 6 credits in courses selected from a list of approved technical electives available from the Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science.

Concentrations in Chemical Engineering

In response to increasing interest in the application of chemical engineering principles to related fields, the Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science offers concentrations in biochemical engineering, bioenergy, biomedical engineering, environmental engineering, food science, and polymer science and engineering to students wishing an area of concentration in the degree. Concentrations are available to, but not required of, any student enrolled in the Bachelor of Science degree program  in chemical engineering. The concentration will be noted on the student's transcript.

NOTE: Completing the Bachelor of Science degree in chemical engineering with a concentration may  require more than 128 credits. For any concentration, up to 3 credits of Independent Study (CHE 490) related to the subject area may be applied with approval of the Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science.

Biochemical Engineering
To earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering with a biochemical engineering concentration, students must complete requirements 1., 2., 3. a., and 3.d. above and the following:
Both of the following courses (6 credits):
CHE 481 Biochemical Engineering 3
MMG 301 Introductory Microbiology 3
One of the following tracks (11 to 13 credits):
Track 1 (12 or 13 credits):
The following course (4 credits):
BMB 401 Comprehensive Biochemistry 4
Three of the following courses (8 or 9 credits):
BMB 805 Protein Structure, Design, and Mechanism 3
BMB 829 Special Problems in Macromolecular Analysis and Synthesis 2
CHE 882 Advanced Biochemical Engineering 3
CHE 883 Multidisciplinary Bioprocessing Laboratory 3
MMG 409 Eukaryotic Cell Biology 3
MMG 421 Prokaryotic Cell Physiology 3
MMG 431 Microbial Genetics 3
Track 2 (11 or 12 credits):
Both of the following courses (6 credits):
BMB 461 Advanced Biochemistry I 3
BMB 462 Advanced Biochemistry II 3
Two of the following courses (5 or 6 credits):
BMB 805 Protein Structure, Design, and Mechanism 3
BMB 829 Special Problems in Macromolecular Analysis and Synthesis 2
CHE 882 Advanced Biochemical Engineering 3
CHE 883 Multidisciplinary Bioprocessing Laboratory 3
MMG 409 Eukaryotic Cell Biology 3
MMG 421 Prokaryotic Cell Physiology 3
MMG 431 Microbial Genetics 3
Bioenergy and Bioproducts
To earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering with a bioenergy and bioproducts concentration, students must complete requirements 1., 2., 3.a., 3.b., and 3.d. above and the following:
All of the following courses (9 credits): 3
CHE 468 Biomass Conversion Engineering 3
CHE 481 Biochemical Engineering 3
CSS 467 Bioenergy Feedstock Production
One of the following courses (3 credits):
BE 469 Sustainable Bioenergy Systems 3
BE 869 Life Cycle Assessment for Bioenergy and Bioproduct Systems 3
One of the following courses (3 credits):
AFRE 829 Economics of Environmental Resources 3
CHE 882 Advanced Biochemical Engineering 3
CHE 883 Multidisciplinary Bioprocessing Laboratory 3
FOR 466 Natural Resource Policy 3
MC 450 International Environmental Law and Policy 3
Biomedical Engineering
To earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering with a biomedical engineering concentration, students must complete requirements 1., 2., 3.a., 3.b., and 3.d. above and the following:
All of the following courses (10 credits):
CHE 481 Biochemical Engineering 3
MMG 409 Eukaryotic Cell Biology 3
PSL 431 Human Physiology I 4
One of the following courses (3 credits):
CHE 883 Multidisciplinary Bioprocessing Laboratory 3
ME 494 Biofluid Mechanics and Heat Transfer 3
MSE 425 Biomaterials and Biocompatibility 3
One of the following courses not taken above (3 or 4 credits):
BMB 471 Advanced Biochemistry Laboratory 4
CHE 883 Multidisciplinary Bioprocessing Laboratory 3
IBIO 341 Fundamental Genetics 4
ME 494 Biofluid Mechanics and Heat Transfer 3
MSE 425 Biomaterials and Biocompatibility 3