UCD School of Biosystems Engineering

Scoil na hInnealtóireachta mBithchóras UCD

Biosystems Engineering Degrees

Biosystems Engineering

BE (Hons) or BSc (Engineering Science) leading to ME

Full Time - Undergraduate studies

Course Information

CAO Code: DN150
Average CAO Points 2011:
Minimum CAO Points 2011:
Length of Course: 4 Years (BE) or 3 Years (BSc) + 2 Years (ME)

Leaving Certificate: Passes in six subjects including English, Irish, Mathematics* and one laboratory science subject**(Chemistry, Physics or Biology is recommended) of which two of the six must be minimum HC3.

*Minimum Grade HC3 in Leaving Certificate or equivalent.
**Minimum Grade HD3 in Leaving Certificate or equivalent

Click below for equivalent entry requirements information for:
A-level applicants
All other EU applicants
Non-EU applicants

Why is this course for me?

Learn how to apply the principles of engineering to biological systems.

Create enhanced foods of the future, or biofuels from materials such as marine algae.

Biosystems Engineering is based on the study of the science of biology. Biosystems engineers apply their knowledge to produce, manufacture and process biological materials such as biosensors, enzymes, food products, new and advanced packaging systems, and precision production and harvesting systems. They also work to achieve sustainable development and environmental protection by developing improved waste management techniques, and systems to protect air, soil and water quality.

If these are areas that interest you, then as a Biosystems Engineering student you will learn the engineering and biological principles required, and gain the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a successful, fulfilling career in the world’s thriving bioresource industries.

What will I study?

First Year

As with all DN150 Engineering programmes, students follow a common first year. You can then choose your preferred specialisation. In Biosystems Engineering, modules include:

Second Year

Food Physics
Biosystems Engineering
Research Trends
Principles of Animal Science
Principles of Crop Science
Chemistry of Macronutrients
Agricultural Microbiology
Mechanics of Fluids
Mechanics of Solids

Third Year

Bioprocess Engineering Principles
Biosystems Engineering Experimental Project
Waste Management
Biofuels & Renewable Energies
Professional Engineering (Finance)
Engineering Thermodynamics
Numerical Methods for Engineers

Fourth Year

Food Refrigeration Systems
Environmental Engineering
Air Pollution
Buildings for Animal Production
Food Process Engineering
Food Chain Integrity
Biosystems Engineering Capstone Design Project

For detailed information on subject content click here.

Career & Graduate Study Opportunities

Graduates can find employment in:

Bioprocess and food companies
Environmental protection agencies
Sustainable energy and green technology companies

International Study Opportunities

Opportunities to date have included:

Virginia Tech University, USA
University of Illinois, USA

If you are interested in farm machinery, mechanisation or technology in general, this degree programme could be for you and open up a whole range of career opportunities.

Degree: BAgrSc (Engineering Technology)

Direct entry CAO Code: DN250 ENT

Agricultural Science CAO code: DN250

Length of Programme: 4 years.

Required Subjects: Irish, English, Mathematics, one laboratory science subject, two other recognised subjects.

Introduction

Engineering Technology covers the broad areas of mechanisation, environmental protection and processing in the agri-food and related industries. As a graduate you will have an understanding of these processes, related environmental issues and how to monitor and control them. You will also have developed your communication, business management, IT and interpersonal skills.

Find out what current students think of the programme by clicking here.

Programme Objectives This degree programme is designed to help you acquire an understanding of:

how engineering sciences are used for development of mechanisation technologies, environmental protection technologies and bioprocess technologies;
the technology used to produce, harvest, process, preserve and distribute biological products (plant and animal), all managed in an environmentally friendly and sustainable manner;
Irish, European and worldwide application of engineering technology for bioprocess industries.

As well as providing you with the principles, knowledge, and skills directly related to Engineering Technology, the degree programme is also designed to help you develop transferable skills, such as:

the ability to think analytically, solve problems, and be creative;
application of information technology and communication skills; and
interpersonal and professional development skills which can be used in many areas of professional employment.

Programme Content

The programme is based on a core of agricultural and engineering science subjects in years 1 and 2. These include principles of engineering, computer and manufacturing technology, crop husbandry and food science.

Years 3 and 4 specialise in Engineering Technology with opportunities to choose modules of special interest. These include power and machinery, waste management, remote sensing, food manufacturing systems, and environmental principles.

In year 3 you may spend one semester at Iowa State University, Michigan State University or Purdue University in the USA. Scholarships of up to €2500 are available to support your placement in such courses.

It is important that you study the programme syllabus before making your final choice.

Click here for year 1 programme modules and descriptions.

Professional Work Experience (PWE)

Professional Work Experience is included as part of the major project which extends through years 3 and 4. In order to complete the project you will have to work and gather data from the particular sector your project covers.

International Recognition

The Engineering Technology degree at UCD has been formally designated by the prestigious American Society of Agricultural Engineers as a recognised programme. Graduates in Engineering Technology are also eligible for associate membership of The Institution of Engineers of Ireland.

Transfer/Progression Applications

The Programme normally accepts a number of transferees from Institutes of Technology who have completed relevant Higher Certificate/Ordinary Degree Programmes. Details are available from the Programme Office.

Further Information:

Agricultural Science and Veterinary Medicine Programme Office

Room G10 (ground floor),

UCD Agriculture and Food Science Centre

University College Dublin

Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland

Tel: +353 1 716 7194

Fax: +353 1 716 1118

Email: agandvet@ucd.ie

Website: www.ucd.ie/agandvet