Masters of Public Administration
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M.S. in Biosystems Engineering (Non-Thesis)
Auburn, Alabama
INTAKE: Jan, May & Aug
Program Overview
Auburn University offers a dynamic Master of Science (M.S.) program in Biosystems Engineering (Non-Thesis), providing students with advanced knowledge and skills in the interdisciplinary field of biosystems engineering. This STEM-designated program is designed for students who seek a non-thesis option and wish to pursue careers in industry, government, consulting, or further studies. The M.S. in Biosystems Engineering (Non-Thesis) program at Auburn University offers a comprehensive and flexible curriculum, hands-on learning opportunities, industry partnerships, and professional development support to prepare students for successful careers in biosystems engineering and related fields. With its interdisciplinary approach, practical focus, and STEM designation, the program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and credentials needed to address complex challenges in agricultural, environmental, and biological systems and to make meaningful contributions to society.
Curriculum:
1. Interdisciplinary Curriculum: The M.S. in Biosystems Engineering (Non-Thesis) program at Auburn University offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates principles from engineering, biology, agriculture, and environmental science. Students study a broad range of topics, including agricultural systems, environmental quality, food and bioprocess engineering, precision agriculture, sustainable energy, and natural resource management. The curriculum emphasizes the application of engineering principles to address challenges related to agricultural production, food safety, environmental sustainability, and bioenergy.
2. Non-Thesis Option: This program offers a non-thesis option, providing students with flexibility in completing their degree requirements. Instead of conducting original research and writing a thesis, students complete coursework, projects, and comprehensive examinations to demonstrate mastery of the subject matter. The non-thesis option is ideal for students who prefer a coursework-focused program and wish to gain practical skills and knowledge applicable to professional practice in biosystems engineering.
3.STEM Designation: The M.S. in Biosystems Engineering program at Auburn University is designated as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, recognizing its focus on fields critical to national security and economic competitiveness. This designation allows international students to apply for an optional practical training (OPT) extension of up to 24 months after graduation, providing them with additional opportunities to gain practical work experience in the United States.
4. Hands-On Learning Opportunities: Auburn University emphasizes hands-on learning experiences to complement classroom instruction and enhance students' practical skills. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, research facilities, and experimental farms where they can engage in applied research, design projects, and fieldwork. Hands-on learning opportunities may include designing and testing agricultural machinery, conducting experiments in food processing and safety, developing environmental monitoring systems, and implementing precision agriculture technologies.
5. Industry Partnerships and Collaborations: The M.S. program in Biosystems Engineering at Auburn University maintains strong partnerships and collaborations with industry stakeholders, government agencies, research institutions, and agricultural organizations. These partnerships provide students with opportunities for internships, cooperative education experiences, industry-sponsored projects, and networking opportunities. Students gain valuable insights into industry trends, challenges, and best practices and develop professional connections that can enhance their career prospects upon graduation.
6. Professional Development: Auburn University offers comprehensive support for students' professional development and career readiness. The university's career services center provides resources such as career counseling, resume and cover letter assistance, interview preparation workshops, job search strategies, and networking events. Faculty advisors and industry mentors also offer guidance and support to students as they explore career options, pursue internships, and transition to the workforce or further studies.
7. Core and Elective Courses: The M.S. curriculum includes a combination of core and elective courses that cover fundamental principles and specialized topics in biosystems engineering. Core courses may include subjects such as biological systems engineering principles, agricultural and environmental sensors, data analysis and modeling, sustainable agriculture and natural resource management, and advanced topics in biosystems engineering. Elective courses allow students to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals, with options in areas such as precision agriculture, bioprocess engineering, renewable energy, and environmental systems.
Location
Auburn, Alabama
Score
IELTS: 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 16304
Postgraduate Programs Entry Requirements:
- Academic Qualifications: International students applying for postgraduate programs at Auburn University should hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The minimum academic requirement is a score of 80-86% or above in the qualifying examination.
- English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall band score of 6.5 is required.
- TOEFL: A minimum score of 79 on the internet-based test (iBT) is required.
- PTE: A minimum score of 55 is required.
These scholarships recognize academic achievements, leadership potential, and diverse backgrounds.
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International Merit Scholarships: Auburn University offers merit-based scholarships to outstanding international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, leadership skills, extracurricular involvement, and other criteria. The scholarships are renewable for up to four years of undergraduate study and provide partial tuition coverage.
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Global Scholars Program: The Global Scholars Program is a prestigious scholarship program at Auburn University. It is designed for academically talented international students who demonstrate exceptional leadership abilities, community involvement, and a commitment to global issues. Selected students receive a comprehensive scholarship package that includes full tuition, housing, and a stipend.
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Cultural Diversity Scholarships: Auburn University recognizes and values the diversity of its student population. The Cultural Diversity Scholarships aim to support underrepresented international students who contribute to the university's cultural and global perspectives. These scholarships provide financial assistance for tuition and living expenses.
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Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments and colleges within Auburn University offer scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships may be discipline-specific and require students to major in a particular field of study. Students are encouraged to explore departmental websites and contact their respective academic units for information on available scholarships.
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Graduate Assistantships: International graduate students may have the opportunity to work as graduate teaching or research assistants within their academic departments. These assistantships provide a stipend, tuition remission, and valuable professional experience. Graduate students can inquire about assistantship opportunities when applying to their respective graduate programs.
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External Scholarships: Auburn University also encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities provided by governments, organizations, and foundations. The university's Office of International Programs provides guidance and resources to help students search and apply for external scholarships.
It is important for international students to carefully review scholarship eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and any additional requirements specified by Auburn University. The university encourages early application submission to be considered for the available scholarships.
Graduating with a Master of Science (M.S.) in Biosystems Engineering (Non-Thesis) from Auburn University opens up diverse career opportunities in fields such as agriculture, food processing, environmental conservation, renewable energy, and biotechnology. With a solid foundation in engineering principles, interdisciplinary knowledge, and practical skills, graduates are well-equipped to pursue rewarding careers in industry, government, consulting, research, and academia.
1. Agricultural Engineer: M.S. in Biosystems Engineering graduates may pursue careers as agricultural engineers, designing and developing agricultural machinery, equipment, and systems to improve efficiency, productivity, and sustainability in farming operations. They may work for agricultural equipment manufacturers, agricultural technology companies, government agencies, or consulting firms, contributing to the design, testing, and implementation of innovative technologies for precision agriculture, irrigation, crop management, and post-harvest processing.
2. Environmental Engineer: Graduates may work as environmental engineers, addressing environmental challenges related to water quality, soil conservation, air pollution, and waste management in agricultural and rural areas. They may design and implement solutions to mitigate environmental impacts, improve resource efficiency, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. Environmental engineers may work for environmental consulting firms, government agencies, research institutions, or nonprofit organizations, conducting environmental assessments, remediation projects, and sustainable development initiatives.
3. Food Process Engineer: M.S. in Biosystems Engineering graduates may pursue careers as food process engineers, working in the food and beverage industry to develop and optimize food processing technologies, improve product quality, and ensure food safety and sanitation. They may design and oversee manufacturing processes for food products, develop new processing techniques, and troubleshoot production problems. Food process engineers may work for food processing companies, research institutions, regulatory agencies, or consulting firms, contributing to the development of innovative and sustainable food products and processes.
4. Renewable Energy Engineer: Graduates may work as renewable energy engineers, designing and implementing renewable energy systems such as bioenergy, solar energy, wind energy, and biomass conversion systems. They may conduct feasibility studies, design renewable energy systems, optimize energy production and efficiency, and assess environmental impacts. Renewable energy engineers may work for energy companies, engineering firms, government agencies, or research institutions, contributing to the transition to clean and sustainable energy sources.
5. Bioprocess Engineer: M.S. in Biosystems Engineering graduates may pursue careers as bioprocess engineers, working in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and bio-manufacturing industries to develop and optimize processes for the production of bio-based products such as biofuels, pharmaceuticals, bioplastics, and enzymes. They may design and scale-up fermentation processes, optimize process parameters, and ensure product quality and yield. Bioprocess engineers may work for biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical firms, research institutions, or government agencies, contributing to the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly bioproducts.
6. Consulting Engineer: Graduates may work as consulting engineers, providing expertise and technical assistance to clients in various industries on engineering projects, technology development, and process optimization. They may work for engineering consulting firms, management consulting firms, or as independent consultants, helping clients solve complex problems, improve efficiency, and implement sustainable solutions. Consulting engineers may work on a wide range of projects, including agricultural systems, environmental remediation, renewable energy, and food processing.
7. Research Scientist/Academic Researcher: Graduates may pursue careers as research scientists or academic researchers, conducting applied research in biosystems engineering, agricultural engineering, or related fields. They may work in research institutions, universities, government agencies, or private industry, conducting research, publishing papers, and contributing to scientific advancements in areas such as precision agriculture, environmental sustainability, renewable energy, and bioprocessing. Research scientists may also work on collaborative research projects with industry partners, government agencies, and other research organizations.
