We ended up with a curriculum requiring 128 semester credits which can be completed in four years by taking two semesters per year and averaging 16 credits per semester. We increased the amount of biology in the program while maintaining a strong core of mathematics, physical sciences and engineering sciences. We added an introduction to design course at the sophomore level where students will get a chance to work on design projects in a team setting. We plan to pair some of the activities of this course with the senior design sequence. Increased emphasis on communication including oral presentations will be included in the design courses at both the sophomore and senior levels as well as other department courses in the junior and senior years.
The curriculum doesn't leave much room for students to take business and management courses. That was one of the issues we considered in the early discussions, but we weren't able to find space given all of the other topics and requirements. Students who want to explore these areas will either need to take some extra elective credits or pursue an advanced degree in business.
The focus of the next six months is to help students who will be here during the transition to make course choices during the last year on quarters that will fit well with the new semester programs. We appreciate the input of alumni and welcome your suggestions to improve the educational experience at any time.
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This page is part of the Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering Department web at http://www.bae.umn.edu/