Overview

The Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering programme at South Dakota State University prepares students to become professional problem solvers within the global agricultural sector. This degree integrates engineering principles with biological sciences to develop innovative solutions for food production and environmental stewardship. Students engage in a curriculum that balances technical theory with practical, hands-on learning experiences.

Why Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at South Dakota State University?

South Dakota State University provides a unique learning environment where students benefit from a personal connection with expert teaching staff. The department offers specialised facilities and a curriculum that addresses regional and global agricultural challenges. Students have the opportunity to participate in distinctive extracurricular activities, such as the Quarter Scale Tractor Team and the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers student branch, which enhance practical skills and professional networking.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 387 per credit
National fee: USD 387 per credit
Local fee: USD 267 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide a robust foundation in engineering and agricultural sciences. Modules may include:

Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering
Precision Agriculture
Bioprocessing Sciences
Sustainable Energy Systems
Engineering Management
Software Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Computer Science

Careers with Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering

Graduates of the programme are in high demand across various sectors of production agriculture and environmental management. Many alumni secure roles designing the next generation of automated agricultural vehicles or developing innovative livestock facilities that improve animal comfort and profitability. Others focus on water quality by designing irrigation and drainage systems that preserve natural resources.

The skills acquired during the course allow graduates to manage complex processing facilities that convert raw commodities like corn and milk into high-value products, including fuels and specialty foods. Recent graduates have found success with prominent organisations such as John Deere, Raven Industries, AGCO Corporation, and the Natural Resources Conservation Service. Many professionals also successfully balance their engineering careers with managing their own farming operations.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Engineering Tools for Agricultural and Biological Engineers

Project Development for Agricultural and Biological Engineers

Agricultural Structures and Indoor Environment Lab

Engineering Properties of Biological Materials Lab

Design Project

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-15 00:00:00 , International

More details

National: SDSU accepts applications on a rolling admissions timeline.

Language

English

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IELTS

5.5

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Credits

130 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Brookings, United States

Disciplines

Biology Agriculture View 427 other Bachelors in Agriculture in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.6

English requirements

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IELTS

5.5

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Other requirements

General requirements

For admission to SDSU, we look for one of the following academic achievements:

An ACT composite score or ACT superscore of 18 or SAT Math and Reading/Writing subscore total of 970 or
Level 3 or higher on Math and English Language Arts Smarter Balance Assessment or
A high school cumulative GPA of 2.6 or higher or
A ranking in the top 60 percent of graduating class.

Students should also complete the following core courses with a “C” average or above:

4 years of English (or ACT English subscore of 18 or above).
3 years of advanced math—Algebra I and higher (or ACT math subscore of 20).
3 years of laboratory science (or ACT science reasoning subscore of 17).
3 years of social science (or ACT reading subscore of 17).
1 year of fine arts (or AP Fine Arts score of 3 or above) Includes vocal, instrumental and studio arts.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

12577 USD / year

≈ 12577 USD / year
Out-of-State

12577 USD / year

≈ 12577 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

8677 USD / year

≈ 8677 USD / year

Additional Details

Minnesota Resident: $312.25 per credit.

Living costs

Brookings

United States

1085 - 1888 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Additional Details

Living costs

Brookings

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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