About
The Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering prepares students to solve real-world challenges at the intersection of engineering, agriculture, biology, and technology. Our graduates develop innovative solutions that improve food production, protect natural resources, and enhance the quality of life for people, animals, and the environment.
Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (ABEN) students become professional engineers who apply engineering principles to biological systems, addressing global challenges such as sustainable food production, environmental stewardship, and resource management.
Agricultural Technology (AGT) combines engineering technology, agricultural sciences, business, and precision agriculture to prepare graduates to lead the future of modern agriculture. Students gain hands-on experience with agricultural equipment, precision technologies, GPS guidance, data management, remote sensing, electronics, crop and livestock production systems, and business management. AGT graduates are equipped to manage people, equipment, and production systems while bridging the gap between engineering innovation and agricultural application. Career opportunities include equipment manufacturing and dealerships, ag retailers, cooperatives, production agriculture, consulting, and agricultural technology companies.
Together, these programs prepare graduates for high-demand careers that drive innovation, sustainability, and technological advancement across the agricultural industry.
Purpose
The purpose of the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at North Dakota State University is to serve as an academic, research, and extension unit engaged in the development and transfer of knowledge or information resulting in usable, economical, and sustainable technologies for enhanced production and utilization of agricultural, food, and other biological products and sustainable management of related environmental resources.
Mission
- Teaching and Instructional Support: The Department's mission is to serve students and our profession by providing: a) high quality teaching programs in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering and Agricultural Technology that prepare graduates for 21st century living and career opportunities; b) recruitment of new students; c) academic advisement and career counseling to students; d) job placement and follow-up for students; and e) advanced and continuing education for graduates.
- Research: The Department's mission is to develop and adapt knowledge and technologies that focus on engineering and management of agricultural and biological systems and related environmental resources, and to ensure continued growth and development of faculty and the profession through the conduct of strong interdisciplinary research programs.
- Extension: The Department's mission is to develop and deliver effective extension programs that help people improve their lives through the educational process that uses scientific and research-based knowledge focused on issues and needs.
Goals
- To provide high quality educational programs in selected areas of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering and Agricultural Technology.
- To generate new knowledge in engineering and allied technologies for production agriculture, the food system, and related environmental resources. Research programs are focused in the areas: a) agri-production systems, b) biological materials handling and value-added processing, and c) agricultural hydrology and environmental resources management.
- To transfer information and technology to the people of North Dakota, the nation, and the world through extension and outreach education in the areas: a) agri-production systems, b) post-harvest engineering, c) irrigation and water resources management, and d) agricultural safety.
- To achieve and maintain effective constituent relationships.