Biological Engineering

The Bachelor of Science in biological engineering (B.S.B.E.) at University of Idaho is a 122-credit program that provides a structured, interdisciplinary curriculum integrating engineering principles with biological and chemical sciences.

Learning outcomes

Biological engineering graduates combine engineering, biology and the physical sciences to solve real-world challenges. They design innovative, sustainable solutions, communicate effectively, collaborate across disciplines and uphold the highest professional and ethical standards. Graduates are prepared to improve human health, strengthen food systems, protect the environment and advance engineering innovation.

Class format

Students build expertise in health, energy, agriculture and environmental systems through a curriculum grounded in mathematics, physics, chemistry and biology.

Early coursework in calculus, engineering physics, general chemistry, organic chemistry, microbiology and biochemistry develops the analytical and scientific foundation needed for advanced engineering study.

Advanced biological engineering courses provide direct access to biology, chemistry and engineering laboratories where students gain hands-on experience with instrumentation, experimentation and data analysis. These applied learning experiences develop technical skills in modeling, measurement and system optimization, preparing graduates for successful careers in industry or continued study in advanced engineering and research programs.

Customize your engineering degree to match your career and educational goals through technical electives and certificate programs in biomedical engineering and more. Develop specialized skills for evolving industry needs or preparing for graduate study, research and advanced opportunities in engineering and related fields.

In your final year, you will participate in the college’s nationally recognized Interdisciplinary Capstone Design program, collaborating with a team on an industry- or department-sponsored project that builds teamwork, technical expertise and problem-solving skills while creating innovative solutions to real-world engineering challenges.

Industry connections throughout your academic journey provide valuable opportunities to build your professional network through paid internships, career networking events and employer engagement. These experiences help position you for successful placement in engineering careers, graduate programs and high-demand fields including energy, healthcare, manufacturing and sustainability.

Accelerated 4+1 Master of Engineering (M. Engr.) in BE

The Accelerated 4+1 Master of Engineering (M.Engr.) Program allows current biological engineering undergraduate students at University of Idaho to earn a graduate engineering degree in one additional year while paying in-state undergraduate tuition rates. Students must apply to the program before completing their undergraduate degree and meet the application deadline established by the College of Graduate Studies (COGS). Students who exceed the minimum undergraduate credit requirements and wish to apply eligible additional credits toward their graduate degree must submit a credit reservation form and receive COGS approval before the end of the term in which their undergraduate degree is awarded.

Faculty expertise

College of Engineering faculty support students through interdisciplinary projects and creative exploration. Faculty expertise includes:

• Biotechnology and biological systems
• Biomaterials and medical technologies
• Sustainable energy and bio-based solutions
• Environmental engineering and water resources
• Food and agricultural systems
• Process modeling and optimization
• Advanced materials and engineering applications

Find a faculty advisor

Explore program courses in the University Catalog

View undergraduate 4-year academic plan

Advising

• First-year undergraduates — Our professional advisors can help you learn more about degree options, select a major, identify required and elective courses and build a plan toward graduation. As you progress through your degree, you’ll transition to a faculty advisor.
• Transfer Students — If you have 13 or less transfer credits, email Student Services or call 208-885-6470. If you have more than 13 credits, contact the department you're transferring into.

Hands-on learning

All U of I College of Engineering students participate in hands-on activities through:

• Nationally ranked Senior Capstone Design Program - Emphasizing the engineering design process and the development of a fully engineered, tested and validated outcome or prototype. Interdisciplinary student teams present their industry-sponsored projects at the annual Engineering Design EXPO.
• Cooperative Education Program (Co-op) – Get paid up to $20,000 alternating semesters of academic study with paid full-time employment in your field.
• Earn funding to explore areas that interest you - Customize your college experience through opportunities that support academic, professional and personal development in the College of Engineering Professional Skills Academy. Pursue technical certificates in engineering and computer science, build professional networks with faculty and industry partners and engage in hands-on research and project-based learning.
• Internships and summer programs – Gain real-world experience through paid internships, fellowships and research mentorship programs. Work with leading companies, national laboratories and research centers to apply classroom knowledge, develop technical and professional skills and build industry connections.

The College of Engineering offers 20+ clubs and organizations tied to international and national engineering organizations, including national competition teams.

Clubs and organizations related to biological engineering include:

• American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE)  
• Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES)  
• Humanitarian Engineering Corps (HEC)  
• National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)  
• Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE)
• Society of Women Engineers (SWE)  
• Tau Beta Pi - Engineering Honor Society (TBP)  
• Vandal Clean Energy Club 

While paying for college can feel overwhelming, University of Idaho is committed to affordability and clarity about tuition and financial aid. Here are a few key resources to help you understand the cost of your degree and explore available financial support:

• Submit your FAFSA: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to accessing federal, state and institutional financial aid.
• Estimate your cost of attendance: Use U of I’s Cost Calculator to estimate tuition and other expenses associated with earning your degree.
• Discover scholarship opportunities: When you apply to University of Idaho, you’re automatically considered for scholarships. Additional awards are available based on your previous experience, background and anticipated program of study.

If you have any questions about financial aid, scholarships or cost, U of I’s experienced financial aid counselors can help you make informed financial decisions and navigate each part of the process. Reach out to our Financial Aid Office for assistance.

College scholarship information

• Engineering students receive more than $1 million in scholarships annually.
• Earn more than $64,000 in scholarships over the course of four years through the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE). Eligible first-year and transfer students are considered simply by filling out their U of I admission application. There’s no separate application or deadline.
• Merit- and need-based scholarships – All first-time students and first-time transfer students in the College of Engineering are automatically considered for merit- and need-based scholarships and financial aid when filling out the admissions application and FAFSA. There are no separate scholarship applications required to be considered. Continuing students are also automatically considered after filling out the FAFSA each year.
• Additional College of Engineering scholarships – Additional scholarships are available based on major and interest areas. Browse engineering scholarships and application processes.

Idaho LAUNCH

This degree is approved for Idaho LAUNCH, a grant that supports Idaho students pursuing high-demand careers. Students enrolling under the 2026–27 Academic Catalog may be eligible for up to $4,000 per year / $8,000 total in scholarship funding through the Idaho LAUNCH program.

Learn about eligibility and application deadlines at nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch, or see our full list of approved U of I programs on the in-state scholarships page.

Recognized STEM Program

This program is recognized as a STEM program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and may be eligible for the 24-month STEM optional practical training extension for international students.

Learn more about STEM approved CIP/degree codes

Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.

To learn more, explore our Admissions website.