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Agricultural Engineering

This is an archived copy of the 2020-2021 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.iastate.edu.

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For the undergraduate curriculum in agricultural engineering leading to the degree bachelor of science. The Agricultural Engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org/.

Goal: To educate students in the analysis and design of machinery, animal housing, and environmental systems for the production, processing, storage, handling, distribution, and use of food, feed, fiber and other biomaterials, and the management of related natural resources, by integrating basic physical and biological sciences with engineering design principles.

Program Educational Objectives:Three to five years after graduation, our graduates will be using the knowledge, skills, and abilities from their agricultural engineering degree to improve the human condition through successful careers in a wide variety of fields. They will be effective leaders, collaborators, and innovators who address environmental, social, technical, and business challenges. They will be engaged in life-long learning and professional development through self-study, continuing education, or graduate/professional school.

Graduates find employment in diverse ag- and bio-related industries and government agencies dealing with agricultural machines and buildings, animal and environmental control, grain processing and handling, soil and water resources, food, biorenewables, and biotechnology. Their work involves engineering design, development, testing, research, manufacturing, consulting, sales, and service. Students are highly encouraged to participate in either cooperative education or internship programs.

The department also offers a bachelor of science curriculum in biological systems engineering. Additionally, the department offers bachelor of science curricula in agricultural systems technology and in industrial technology.

Well-qualified juniors and seniors in agricultural engineering who are interested in graduate study may apply for concurrent enrollment in the Graduate College to simultaneously pursue a bachelor of science degree in agricultural engineering and a master of science degree in agricultural engineering.  A concurrent bachelor of science and master of business administration program is also offered by the department. Refer to Graduate Study for more information.

Curriculum in Agricultural Engineering

Administered by the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering.

Leading to the degree bachelor of science.

Total credits required: 126.0cr Land and Water Resources Engineering Option, 128.0cr Power and Machinery Engineering Option, 128.0cr Animal Production Systems Engineering Option.

Any transfer credit courses applied to the degree program require a grade of C or better (but will not be calculated into the ISU cumulative GPA, Basic Program GPA or Core GPA).  See also Basic Program and Special Programs.

International Perspectives: 3 cr.1
U.S. Diversity: 3 cr.1
Communication Proficiency/Library requirement :
ENGL 150Critical Thinking and Communication (Must have a C or better in this course)3
ENGL 250Written, Oral, Visual, and Electronic Composition (Must have a C or better in this course)3
LIB 160Information Literacy1
Communication Elective: One of the following (Must have a C or better in this course)3
Presentation and Sales Strategies for Agricultural Audiences
Proposal and Report Writing
Technical Communication
Advanced Professional Selling
Fundamentals of Public Speaking
Business and Professional Speaking
Social Sciences and Humanities: 12 cr. 1,2
3 credits from international perspectives-university approved list3
3 credits from U.S. diversity-university approved list3
6 credits from Social Sciences and Humanities courses-department approved list6
Total Credits12
Basic Program: 24 cr.

A minimum GPA of 2.00 required for this set of courses (please note that transfer course grades will not be calculated into  the Basic Program GPA). See Requirement for Entry into Professional Program in College of Engineering Overview section. Within the Agricultural Engineering Basic Program, students are required to complete CHEM 167 and  CHEM 167L or the sequence of CHEM 177, CHEM 177L, and CHEM 178. This is a departmental requirement within the College of Engineering Basic Program requirements. CHEM 178 credits can then be applied to the Math/Science Elective within the options of Power and Machinery Engineering and Animal Production Systems Engineering of the Agricultural Engineering major requirements.

A B E 160Systematic Problem Solving and Computer Programming 33
CHEM 167General Chemistry for Engineering Students4
and
General Chemistry II
ENGL 150Critical Thinking and Communication (Must have a C or better in this course)3
ENGR 101Engineering OrientationR
LIB 160Information Literacy1
MATH 165Calculus I4
MATH 166Calculus II4
PHYS 221Introduction to Classical Physics I5
Total Credits24
Math and Physical Science: 7 cr.
CHEM 167LLaboratory in General Chemistry for Engineering1
or CHEM 177L Laboratory in General Chemistry I
MATH 266Elementary Differential Equations3
STAT 305Engineering Statistics3
Total Credits7
Ag Engineering Core: 35 cr.

(A minimum GPA of 2.00 required for this set of courses, including any transfer courses please note that transfer course grades will not be calculated into the Core GPA).

A B E 216Fundamentals of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering3
A B E 218Project Management & Design in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering2
A B E 316Applied Numerical Methods for Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering3
A B E 363Agri-Industrial Applications of Electric Power and Electronics4
A B E 404Instrumentation for Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering3
A B E 415Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering Design I2
A B E 416Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering Design II2
C E 274Engineering Statics3
E M 324Mechanics of Materials3
E M 327Mechanics of Materials Laboratory1
E M 378Mechanics of Fluids3
I E 305Engineering Economic Analysis3
M E 231Engineering Thermodynamics I3
Total Credits35
Other Remaining Courses: 11 cr.
A B E 110Experiencing Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering1
A B E 170Engineering Graphics and Introductory Design3
A B E 201Preparing for Workplace Seminar1
ENGL 250Written, Oral, Visual, and Electronic Composition (Must have a C or better in this course)3
Communication Elective: One of the following (Must have a C or better in this course)3
Presentation and Sales Strategies for Agricultural Audiences
Proposal and Report Writing
Technical Communication
Advanced Professional Selling
Fundamentals of Public Speaking
Business and Professional Speaking
Total Credits11

Complete remaining courses from one of the following options:

Land and Water Resources Engineering Option: 37 cr.
A B E 431Design and Evaluation of Soil and Water Conservation Systems3
AGRON 181Introduction to Crop Science3
AGRON 182Introduction to Soil Science3
BIOL 251Biological Processes in the Environment3
C E 326Principles of Environmental Engineering3
C E 372Engineering Hydrology and Hydraulics3
GEOL 201Geology for Engineers and Environmental Scientists3
MICRO 201Introduction to Microbiology2
MICRO 201LIntroductory Microbiology Laboratory1
A B E 273CAD for Process Facilities and Land Use Planning1
GIS Elective (One of the following):3
Fundamentals of Geographic Information Systems
Introduction to Geographic Information Systems
Geospatial Technologies
Introduction to GIS
GIS for Geoscientists
Natural Resource Photogrammetry and Geographic Information Systems
Integrating GPS and GIS for Natural Resource Management
Subsurface Systems Elective (One of the following):3
Geotechnical Engineering
Groundwater Hydrology
Water Quality Elective (One of the following):3
Nonpoint Source Pollution and Control
Watershed Modeling and Policy
A B E Breadth (One of the following):3
Functional Analysis of Soil, Crop, and Machine Systems
Principles of Biological Systems Engineering
A B E 424 (3 different 1cr modules)
Air Pollution: Air quality and effects of pollutants
Air Pollution: Climate change and causes
Air Pollution: Transportation Air Quality
Air Pollution: Off-gas treatment technology
Air Pollution: Agricultural sources of pollution
Engineering for Grain Storage, Preservation, Handling, and Processing Systems
Design of Environmental Modification Systems for Animal Housing (offered Spring even years)
Wood Frame Structural Design (offered Spring odd years)
Engineering Analysis of Biological Systems
Total Credits37
 Power and Machinery Engineering Option: 39 cr.
A B E 340Functional Analysis of Soil, Crop, and Machine Systems3
A B E 342Agricultural Tractor Power3
A B E 410Electronic Systems Integration for Agricultural Machinery3
A B E 413Fluid Power Engineering3
AGRON 182Introduction to Soil Science3
BIOL 251Biological Processes in the Environment3
MAT E 273Principles of Materials Science and Engineering3
M E 324Manufacturing Engineering3
M E 324LManufacturing Engineering Laboratory1
M E 325Mechanical Component Design3
M E 345Engineering Dynamics3
Computer Graphics (Two of the following):2
Engineering Applications of Parametric Solid Modeling
Parametric Solid Models, Drawings, and Assemblies Using Creo Parametric
CAD for Process Facilities and Land Use Planning
A B E Elective (One of the following):3
Design and Evaluation of Soil and Water Conservation Systems
Engineering for Grain Storage, Preservation, Handling, and Processing Systems
Design of Environmental Modification Systems for Animal Housing (offered Spring even years)
Wood Frame Structural Design (offered Spring odd years)
Engineering Analysis of Biological Systems
Math/Science Elective3
Introduction to Crop Science
General Chemistry II (In combination with CHEM 177)
Matrices and Linear Algebra
Calculus III
Introduction to Classical Physics II
Total Credits39
Animal Production Systems Engineering Option: 39 cr.
A B E 469Engineering for Grain Storage, Preservation, Handling, and Processing Systems3
A B E 472Design of Environmental Modification Systems for Animal Housing (offered Spring even years)3
A B E 475Design in Animal Production Systems Engineering2
A B E 478Wood Frame Structural Design (offered Spring odd years)3
AN S 114Survey of the Animal Industry2
BIOL 251Biological Processes in the Environment3
C E 332Structural Analysis I3
C E 333Structural Steel Design I3
C E 334Reinforced Concrete Design I3
M E 436Heat Transfer4
Animal Science/Agronomy Elective (One of the following):3
Introduction to Weather and Climate
Poultry Science
Swine Science
Beef Cattle Science
Sheep Science
Dairy Cattle Science
Computer Graphics (One of the following):1
Engineering Applications of Parametric Solid Modeling
Parametric Solid Models, Drawings, and Assemblies Using Creo Parametric
CAD for Process Facilities and Land Use Planning (Preferred)
A B E elective (One of the following): 23
Design and Evaluation of Soil and Water Conservation Systems
Functional Analysis of Soil, Crop, and Machine Systems
Engineering Analysis of Biological Systems
Math/Science Elective3
Introduction to Crop Science
Introduction to Soil Science
General Chemistry II (In combination with CHEM 177)
Calculus III
Matrices and Linear Algebra
Introduction to Classical Physics II
Total Credits39
Co-op/Internships (Optional)
  1. These university requirements will add to the minimum credits of the program unless the university-approved courses are also approved by the department to meet other course requirements within the degree program.
    U.S. Diversity, International Perspectives and Social Science/Humanities courses may not be taken Pass/Not Pass.
  2. Choose from department approved list.
  3. See Basic Program for Professional Engineering Curricula for accepted substitutions for curriculum designated courses in the Basic Program.

 See also: A 4-year plan of study grid showing course template by semester.

Agricultural Engineering, B.S. - power & machinery option

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
ENGR 101RA B E 1101
A B E 1703A B E 1603
CHEM 1674MATH 1664
CHEM 167L1PHYS 2215
MATH 1654ENGL 2503
ENGL 1503 
LIB 1601 
 16 16
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
A B E 2163A B E 2182
C E 2743A B E 2011
MAT E 2733E M 3243
AGRON 1823MATH 2663
Math/Science Elective3STAT 3053
 International Perspectives Elective3
 15 15
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
A B E 3403A B E 3163
A B E 3634A B E 3423
E M 3271E M 3783
M E 2313M E 324L1
M E 3453BIOL 251 (OR BIOL 211)3
Communication Elective3Computer Graphics Elective2
 17 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
A B E 4152A B E 4162
A B E 4043A B E 4103
A B E 4133A B E Elective3
M E 3243I E 3053
M E 3253Social Science or Humanities Elective3
US Diversity Elective3Social Science or Humanities Elective3
 17 17

Agricultural Engineering, B.S. - animal production systems engineering option

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
ENGR 101RA B E 1101
A B E 1703A B E 1603
CHEM 1674MATH 1664
CHEM 167L1PHYS 2215
MATH 1654ENGL 2503
ENGL 1503 
LIB 1601 
 16 16
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
A B E 2163A B E 2182
C E 2743A B E 2011
MATH 2663E M 3243
Math/Science Elective 3M E 2313
US Diversity Elective3STAT 3053
 BIOL 211 (OR BIOL 251)3
 15 15
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
A B E 3163A B E 4783
A B E 3634C E 3333
C E 3323I E 3053
E M 3271Computer Graphics Elective1
E M 3783Communication Elective3
AN S 1142International Perspective Elective3
 16 16
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
A B E 4152A B E 4162
A B E 4043A B E 4693
M E 4364A B E 4723
A B E Elective3A B E 4752
An Sci/Agron Elective3C E 3343
Social Science or Humanities Elective3SS&H Elective3
 18 16

Agricultural Engineering, B.S. - land and water resources engineering option

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
ENGR 101RA B E 1101
A B E 1703A B E 1603
CHEM 1674MATH 1664
CHEM 167L1PHYS 2215
MATH 1654ENGL 2503
ENGL 1503 
LIB 1601 
 16 16
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
A B E 2163A B E 2182
C E 2743A B E 2011
MATH 2663E M 3243
AGRON 1813M E 2313
AGRON 1823STAT 3053
 BIOL 251 (OR BIOL 211)3
 15 15
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
A B E 3163A B E 2731
A B E 3634C E 3263
E M 3271C E 3723
E M 3783MICRO 2012
GIS Elective3MICRO 201L1
Communication Elective3ABE Breadth Elective3
 US Diversity Elective3
 17 16
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
A B E 4152A B E 4162
A B E 4043I E 3053
A B E 4313Subsurface Systems Elective3
GEOL 2013Water Quality Elective3
Social Science or Humanities Elective3Social Science or Humanities Elective3
International Perspectives Elective3 
 17 14

Graduate Study

The department offers master of science, master of engineering, and doctor of philosophy degrees with a major in agricultural and biosystems engineering. Within the agricultural and biosystems engineering major the student may specialize in advanced machinery engineering, animal production systems engineering, biological and process engineering, occupational safety engineering, or water and environmental stewardship engineering. Details on current research programs available at http://www.abe.iastate.edu/.

For the master of science program, at least 30 credits of acceptable graduate work must be completed with a minimum of 22 credits of course work; corresponding numbers for the master of engineering program are 32 and 27. For the doctor of philosophy degree, at least 72 credits of acceptable graduate work must be completed with a minimum of 42 credits of course work. All Ph.D. students must complete a teaching/extension experience prior to graduation.

The department also offers both master of science and doctor of philosophy degrees in industrial and agricultural technology.

The department also participates in interdepartmental majors in environmental science, sustainable agriculture, biorenewable resources and technology, human computer interaction, and toxicology (see Index).

Expand all courses

Courses

Courses primarily for undergraduates:

Cr. 0.5. F.


8 week learning communities course focusing on student success, engineering, and department curriculum. Building community within the ABE Department. Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.

(0-2) Cr. 1. S.


Laboratory-based, team-oriented experiences in a spectrum of topics common to the practice of agricultural and biosystems engineering. Report writing, co-ops, internships, careers, registration planning.

(2-2) Cr. 3. S.

Prereq: Credit or enrollment in MATH 143 or MATH 165
Engineering approach to problem solution and presentation. Introduction to basic principles from dynamics, statics, conservation laws, and basic electricity. Use of spreadsheet programs and computer programming language(s) to solve and present engineering problems. Only one of ENGR 160, A B E 160, AER E 160, C E 160, CH E 160, CPR E 185, EE 185, IE 148, M E 160 and S E 185 may count towards graduation.

(2-2) Cr. 3.


Applications of multi-view drawings and dimensioning. Techniques for visualizing, analyzing, and communicating 3-D geometries. Application of the design process including written and oral reports.

(Cross-listed with TSM). (1-0) Cr. 1. F.S.

Prereq: Prereq: Sophomore classification in AE, AST, BSE, or I TEC
8 week course. Professionalism in the context of the engineering/technical workplace. Development and demonstration of key workplace competencies: teamwork, initiative, communication, and engineering/technical knowledge. Resumes; Cover Letters; Behavioral Based Interviewing; Industry Speakers; Preparation for internships experiences.

(2-2) Cr. 3. F.

Prereq: A B E 160 or permission of the instructor
Application of mathematics and engineering sciences in agricultural and biosystems engineering. Emphasis is on solving engineering problems.

(1-2) Cr. 2. S.

Prereq: A B E 216
Project management - critical path, Gantt charts, resource allocations, basic project budgeting, and project management software. Engineering design approaches. Open-ended design projects to demonstrate the preceding principles through application of technical concepts taught in prerequisite coursework.

(1-2) Cr. 1. F.S.

Prereq: A B E 170 or TSM 116 or equivalent
8 week-course. Creating, editing, and documenting part and assembly models using Solidworks.

(1-2) Cr. 1. F.S.

Prereq: A B E 170 or TSM 116 or equivalent
8 week-course. Applications of Creo Parametric software. Create solid models of parts and assemblies. Utilize the solid models to create design documentation (standard drawing views, dimensions, and notes) and for the geometric analysis of parts and assemblies.

(1-2) Cr. 1. F.S.

Prereq: ENGR 170 or TSM 116 or equivalent.
8-week course. Application of 2-D AutoCAD software to create and interpret 2-D drawings and 3-D models of facilities. Topics include geometric construction, design documentation: (using views, dimension, notes), and AutoCAD specific features (i.e. Layers, Blocks, Standards, Styles).

(2-2) Cr. 3. F.S.

Prereq: A B E 160; MATH 266 or MATH 267
Computer aided solution of agricultural engineering problems by use of numerical techniques and mathematical models. Systems analysis and optimization applicable to agricultural and biological systems.

(Cross-listed with TSM). (3-0) Cr. 3. F.

Prereq: CHEM 163 or higher; MATH 140 or higher
Converting biorenewable resources into bioenergy and biobased products. Biorenewable concepts as they relate to drivers of change, feedstock production, processes, products, co-products, economics, and transportation/logistics.

(2-2) Cr. 3. F.

Prereq: A B E 216
Principles of machine systems operation (tillage, crop establishment, harvesting and crop protection). Principles of soil and crop interactions with machine systems. Experimental and simulation techniques for testing and evaluation of agricultural field machinery for equipment performance, functional analysis and crop production management.

(2-3) Cr. 3. S.

Prereq: CH E 381 or M E 231
Thermodynamic principles and construction of tractor engines. Fuels, combustion, and lubrication. Kinematics and dynamics of tractor power applications; drawbar, power take-off and traction mechanisms.

(3-2) Cr. 4. F.S.

Prereq: A B E 216
Single phase and three phase circuit design. Electrical safety. Electric motors and controls. Programmable logic controllers. Digital logic, instrumentation and sensors.

(2-2) Cr. 3. S.

Prereq: A B E 316
Engineering analysis of biological systems, through the study of mass, energy, and information transport. Quantification and modeling of biological interactions, biological activities and bioreactor operations. Includes hands-on laboratory experiences on biological materials characterization, unit operation for bioprocesses and fermentation for producing bioproducts.

(Cross-listed with C E, E E). (2-2) Cr. 3. F.

Prereq: Junior classification in engineering
Multi-disciplinary approach to sustainable engineering and international development, sustainable development, appropriate design and engineering, feasibility analysis, international aid, business development, philosophy and politics of technology, and ethics in engineering. Engineering-based projects from problem formulation through implementation. Interactions with partner community organizations or international partners such as nongovernment organizations (NGOs). Course readings, final project/design report.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.

Cr. R. Repeatable. SS.

Prereq: Permission of department and Engineering Career Services
Professional work period of at least 10 weeks during the summer. Students must register for this course prior to commencing work. Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.

Cr. R. Repeatable. F.S.

Prereq: A B E 218 and permission of department and Engineering Career Services
Professional work period. One semester per academic or calendar year. Students must register for this course before commencing work. Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.

(Dual-listed with A B E 503). (2-2) Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.

Prereq: A B E 316, and A B E 363, and MATH 266 or MATH 267
Modeling dynamic systems with ordinary differential equations. Introduction to state variable methods of system analysis. Analysis of mechanical, electrical, and fluid power systems. Analytical and numerical solutions of differential equations. Introduction to classical control theory. Feedback and stability examined in the s domain. Frequency response as an analytical and experimental tool. MATLAB will be used throughout the course for modeling. Individual and/or group projects required for graduate credit.

(Dual-listed with A B E 504). (2-2) Cr. 3. F.

Prereq: A B E 316 and A B E 363
Interfacing techniques for computer-based data acquisition and control systems. Basic interfacing components including A/D and D/A conversion, signal filtering, multiplexing, and process control. Sensors and theory of operation applied to practical monitoring and control problems. Individual and group projects required for graduate credit.

(Dual-listed with A B E 510). Cr. 3. S.


System architecture and design of electronics used in agricultural machinery and production systems. Emphasis on information technology and systems integration for automated agriculture processes. Design of Controller Area Network (CAN BUS) communication systems and discussion of relevant standards (ISO 11783 and SAE J1939). Application of technologies for sensing, distribution control, and automation of agricultural machinery will be emphasized.

(Cross-listed with M E). (2-2) Cr. 3. F.

Prereq: Credit or enrollment in E M 378 or M E 335, A B E 216 or M E 270
Fundamental fluid power principles, symbols and schematics. Hydraulic fluid properties. Function and performance of components such as connections and fittings, filtration, pumps, valves, actuators, hydrostatic transmissions. Hydraulic system dynamics. Modeling and simulation of circuits. Analysis and design of hydraulic systems. Hydrostatic transmission design. Hands-on construction of circuits, measurement of system variables, and electrohydraulic control.

(1-2) Cr. 2. F.S.

Prereq: A B E 316 (majors only)
Identification of current design problems in ag & biosystems engineering. Development of alternate solutions using creativity and engineering analysis and synthesis techniques.

(1-2) Cr. 2. F.S.

Prereq: A B E 415 (majors only)
Selection of promising solutions to design problems identified in 415 for development by design teams. Presentation of designs through oral and written reports and prototypes.

(1-0) Cr. 1.

Prereq: senior classification.
8 week course. Review of core concepts covered in the Fundamentals of Engineering examination with emphasis on statics, dynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, electric circuits, and engineering economics. Open to all College of Engineering seniors, however focus is on the general exam, not discipline specific exams.

(Dual-listed with A B E 524). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.

Prereq: Either PHYS 221 or CHEM 178 and either MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above
1 cr. per module. Module A prereq for all modules; module B prereq for D and E.

(Dual-listed with A B E 524A). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.

Prereq: Either PHYS 221 or CHEM 178 and either MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above
1 cr. per module. Module A prereq for all modules; module B prereq for D and E.

(Dual-listed with A B E 524B). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.

Prereq: Either PHYS 221 or CHEM 178 and either MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above
1 cr. per module. Module A prereq for all modules; module B prereq for D and E.

(Dual-listed with A B E 524C). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.

Prereq: C E 524A; PHYS 221 or CHEM 178; MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above.

(Dual-listed with A B E 524D). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.

Prereq: C E 524A, C E 524B; Either PHYS 221 or CHEM 178 and either MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above

(Dual-listed with A B E 524E). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.

Prereq: Either PHYS 221 or CHEM 178 and either MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above
1 cr. per module. Module A prereq for all modules; module B prereq for D and E.

(Dual-listed with A B E 531). (2-3) Cr. 3. F.

Prereq: E M 378 or CH E 356
Hydrology and hydraulics in agricultural and urbanizing watersheds. Design and evaluation of systems for the conservation and quality preservation of soil and water resources. Use and analysis of hydrologic data in engineering design; relationship of topography, soils, crops, climate, and cultural practices in conservation and quality preservation of soil and water for agriculture. Small watershed hydrology, water movement and utilization in the soil-plant-atmosphere system, agricultural water management, best management practices, and agricultural water quality. Graduate students will prepare several research literature reviews on topics covered in the class in addition to the other assignments.

(Dual-listed with A B E 532). (3-0) Cr. 3.

Prereq: A B E 431 or C E 372
Characteristics and courses of non-point source (NPS) pollution in agricultural and urban watersheds, computer modeling and NPS pollution for terrestrial and aquatic systems, strategies to control and manage NPS pollution of water bodies, total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) and integrated watershed management. Graduate students are required to review research papers and develop/deliver lecture models on assigned topics.

(Dual-listed with A B E 536). (2-3) Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered even-numbered years.

Prereq: A B E 431
Development of monitoring systems that support effective planning, performance evaluation, modeling, or environmental impact assessment of soil-, water-, and waste-management systems. Typical soil and water pollutants and physical, chemical, and biological characteristics that affect sample location and timing. Sample collection, documentation, chain-of-custody, and quality assurance procedures. In addition to other assignments, graduate students will prepare several research literature reviews on topics covered in the class and develop monitoring plans.

(Dual-listed with A B E 537). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3. Alt. F., offered odd-numbered years.

Prereq: CE 372 or equivalent
A project-based course on watershed-scale models for improving water quality. Legislative and judicial basis of the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) program; approaches to TMDL development; principles and techniques for implementation; stakeholder engagement strategies. Hands-on experiences with GIS-interfaced models, data sources, calibration/validation, statistical assessment of model results, and simulation using multiple tools. In addition to other assignments, graduate students will present case studies of TMDLs using different modeling tools.

(Dual-listed with A B E 551). (3-0) Cr. 3. S.

Prereq: A B E 216 and credit or enrollment in M E 436 or CH E 357; or FS HN 351 and MATH 266 or MATH 267
Application of engineering principles and mathematical modeling to the quantitative analysis of transport phenomena in food and bioprocesses. Physical/chemical characteristics of foods and biological materials and systems, flow processes, thermal processes and separation processes.

(Cross-listed with AER E, B M E, CPR E, E E, ENGR, I E, M E, MAT E). (1-4) Cr. 3. Repeatable. F.S.

Prereq: Student must be within two semesters of graduation; permission of instructor.
Application of team design concepts to projects of a multidisciplinary nature. Concurrent treatment of design, manufacturing, and life cycle considerations. Application of design tools such as CAD, CAM, and FEM. Design methodologies, project scheduling, cost estimating, quality control, manufacturing processes. Development of a prototype and appropriate documentation in the form of written reports, oral presentations and computer models and engineering drawings.

(Dual-listed with A B E 569). (2-3) Cr. 3. S.

Prereq: A B E 216
Cereal grain and oilseed production, properties, and quality assessment. Design of storage systems, drying systems, material handling, and size reduction systems. Design of cereal grain processing systems, including dry milling, wet milling, flour milling, feed milling, and fermentation facilities.

(Dual-listed with A B E 572). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered even-numbered years.

Prereq: A B E 216, M E 231
Principles and design of animal environmental control systems. Insulation, heat and mass transfer, fans, ventilation, air distribution, heating and cooling equipment, and controls. Individual and group projects required for graduate credit.

(2-0) Cr. 2. F.S.

Prereq: A B E 271, A B E 272, or A B E 273; E M 324 and enrollment in APSE option of AE program.
Application of engineering fundamentals to the independent solution of an animal production systems engineering problem with well defined criteria and constraints in either environmental control, structural design, manure management, or air quality/mitigation.

(Dual-listed with A B E 578). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.

Prereq: E M 324
Design of light-framed wood structures using LRFD and ASD design procedures. Includes analysis of wind, snow, dead, and live loads. Applications include animal housing and machine storage. Fasteners, laminated posts, truss design and use of National Design Specifications.

(Dual-listed with A B E 580). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3. F.

Prereq: A B E 380 or permission of the instructor
Systems-level quantitative analysis of various biological systems, including applications in foods, feeds, biofuels, bioenergy, and other bio-based systems. Introduction to techno-economic analysis and life-cycle assessment of these systems at multiple production scales. Applying these tools to evaluate and improve cost and sustainability performance. Students enrolled in ABE 580 will be required to conduct additional learning activities.

Cr. 1-5. Repeatable.


Independent Study.

Cr. 1-5. Repeatable. F.S.SS.


Independent study.

Cr. 1-5. Repeatable. F.S.SS.


Independent study in environmental bioprocessing engineering.

Cr. 1-5. Repeatable. F.S.SS.


Independent study in food engineering.

Cr. 1-5. Repeatable. F.S.SS.


Independent study in general A B E topics.

Cr. 1-5. Repeatable.


Guided instructing in agricultural and biosystems engineering for honors students.

Cr. 1-5. Repeatable.


Guided instruction in land and water resources engineering.

Cr. 1-5. Repeatable.


Guided instruction in advance machinery systems engineering.

(Cross-listed with TSM). Cr. 1-2. Repeatable. F.S.SS.

Prereq: Permission of instructor
Preparation for, or follow-up of, study abroad experience (496). For preparation, course focuses on understanding the tour destination through readings, discussions, and research on topics such as the regional industries, climate, crops, culture, economics, food, geography, government, history, natural resources, and public policies. For follow-up, course focuses on presentations by students, report writing, and reflection. Students enrolled in this course intend to register for 496 the following term or have had taken 496 the previous term.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.

(Cross-listed with TSM). Cr. 1-4. Repeatable. F.S.SS.

Prereq: Permission of instructor
Tour and study at international sites relevant to disciplines of industrial technology, biological systems engineering, agricultural systems technology, and agricultural engineering. Location and duration of tours will vary. Trip expenses paid by students. Pre-trip preparation and/or post-trip reflection and reports arranged through 495.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.

Courses primarily for graduate students, open to qualified undergraduates:

(Dual-listed with A B E 403). (2-2) Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.

Prereq: A B E 316, and A B E 363, and MATH 266 or MATH 267
Modeling dynamic systems with ordinary differential equations. Introduction to state variable methods of system analysis. Analysis of mechanical, electrical, and fluid power systems. Analytical and numerical solutions of differential equations. Introduction to classical control theory. Feedback and stability examined in the s domain. Frequency response as an analytical and experimental tool. MATLAB will be used throughout the course for modeling. Individual and/or group projects required for graduate credit.

(Dual-listed with A B E 404). (2-2) Cr. 3. F.

Prereq: A B E 316 and A B E 363
Interfacing techniques for computer-based data acquisition and control systems. Basic interfacing components including A/D and D/A conversion, signal filtering, multiplexing, and process control. Sensors and theory of operation applied to practical monitoring and control problems. Individual and group projects required for graduate credit.

(2-2) Cr. 3. Alt. F., offered even-numbered years.

Prereq: A B E 316 or equivalent, MATH 166, STAT 305
Applications of biologically inspired computational intelligence tools for data mining, system modeling, and optimization for agricultural, biological and other engineered systems. Introduction to Artificial Neural Networks, Support Vector Machines, Fuzzy Logic, Genetic Algorithms, Bayesian and Decision Tree learning. Fundamental Machine Vision techniques will be introduced in the first part of course and be integrated into the lab exercises for learning different computational intelligence techniques. MATLAB will be used throughout the course for algorithm implementation.

(Dual-listed with A B E 410). Cr. 3. S.


System architecture and design of electronics used in agricultural machinery and production systems. Emphasis on information technology and systems integration for automated agriculture processes. Design of Controller Area Network (CAN BUS) communication systems and discussion of relevant standards (ISO 11783 and SAE J1939). Application of technologies for sensing, distribution control, and automation of agricultural machinery will be emphasized.

(3-0) Cr. 3. F.

Prereq: A B E 216 or equivalent, MATH 160 or MATH 165, one of CHEM 167 or higher, BIOL 173 or BIOL 211 or higher or BRT 501, senior or graduate classification
Sustainability, cleaner production. Taxonomy, kinetics, metabolism, aerobic and anaerobic fermentation. Biofuels, bioenergy and coproducts. Mass/energy balances, process integration, pretreatment, separation. Membrane reactors, bioelectrolysis, microbial fuel cells, nanotechnology, genetic engineering, mutagenesis. Term paper for graduate level only.

(Cross-listed with AGRON, AN S, SUSAG). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. F., offered odd-numbered years.

Prereq: SUSAG 509
Methods to maintain productivity and minimize the negative ecological effects of agricultural systems by understanding nutrient cycles, managing manure and crop residue, and utilizing multispecies interactions. Crop and livestock production within landscapes and watersheds is also considered. Course includes a significant field component, with student teams analyzing Iowa farms.

(Dual-listed with A B E 424). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.

Prereq: Either PHYS 221 or CHEM 178 and either MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above
1 cr. per module. Module A prereq for all modules; module B prereq for D and E.

(Dual-listed with A B E 424A). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.

Prereq: Either PHYS 221 or CHEM 178 and either MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above
1 cr. per module. Module A prereq for all modules; module B prereq for D and E.

(Dual-listed with A B E 424B). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.

Prereq: Either PHYS 221 or CHEM 178 and either MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above
1 cr. per module. Module A prereq for all modules; module B prereq for D and E.

(Dual-listed with A B E 424C). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.

Prereq: C E 524A; PHYS 221 or CHEM 178; MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above.

(Dual-listed with A B E 424D). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.

Prereq: C E 524A, C E 524B; Either PHYS 221 or CHEM 178 and either MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above

(Dual-listed with A B E 424E). (Cross-listed with C E, ENSCI). (1-0) Cr. 1.

Prereq: Either PHYS 221 or CHEM 178 and either MATH 166 or 3 credits in statistics. Senior classification or above
1 cr. per module. Module A prereq for all modules; module B prereq for D and E.

(Dual-listed with A B E 431). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (2-3) Cr. 3. F.

Prereq: E M 378 or CH E 356
Hydrology and hydraulics in agricultural and urbanizing watersheds. Design and evaluation of systems for the conservation and quality preservation of soil and water resources. Use and analysis of hydrologic data in engineering design; relationship of topography, soils, crops, climate, and cultural practices in conservation and quality preservation of soil and water for agriculture. Small watershed hydrology, water movement and utilization in the soil-plant-atmosphere system, agricultural water management, best management practices, and agricultural water quality. Graduate students will prepare several research literature reviews on topics covered in the class in addition to the other assignments.

(Dual-listed with A B E 432). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (3-0) Cr. 3.

Prereq: A B E 431 or C E 372
Characteristics and courses of non-point source (NPS) pollution in agricultural and urban watersheds, computer modeling and NPS pollution for terrestrial and aquatic systems, strategies to control and manage NPS pollution of water bodies, total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) and integrated watershed management. Graduate students are required to review research papers and develop/deliver lecture models on assigned topics.

(Cross-listed with ENSCI, NREM). (2-3) Cr. 3. Alt. F., offered even-numbered years.

Prereq: C E 372 or GEOL/ENSCI/MTEOR 402, MATH 166 or equivalent
Soil erosion processes, soil loss equations and their application to conservation planning, sediment properties, initiation of sediment motion and over land flow, flow in alluvial channels and theory of sediment transport, channel stability, reservoir sedimentation, wind erosion, BMPs for controlling erosion.

(Dual-listed with A B E 436). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (2-3) Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered even-numbered years.

Prereq: A B E 431
Development of monitoring systems that support effective planning, performance evaluation, modeling, or environmental impact assessment of soil-, water-, and waste-management systems. Typical soil and water pollutants and physical, chemical, and biological characteristics that affect sample location and timing. Sample collection, documentation, chain-of-custody, and quality assurance procedures. In addition to other assignments, graduate students will prepare several research literature reviews on topics covered in the class and develop monitoring plans.

(Dual-listed with A B E 437). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3. Alt. F., offered odd-numbered years.

Prereq: CE 372 or equivalent
A project-based course on watershed-scale models for improving water quality. Legislative and judicial basis of the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) program; approaches to TMDL development; principles and techniques for implementation; stakeholder engagement strategies. Hands-on experiences with GIS-interfaced models, data sources, calibration/validation, statistical assessment of model results, and simulation using multiple tools. In addition to other assignments, graduate students will present case studies of TMDLs using different modeling tools.

(Dual-listed with A B E 451). (3-0) Cr. 3. S.

Prereq: A B E 216 and credit or enrollment in M E 436 or CH E 357; or FS HN 351 and MATH 266 or MATH 267
Application of engineering principles and mathematical modeling to the quantitative analysis of transport phenomena in food and bioprocesses. Physical/chemical characteristics of foods and biological materials and systems, flow processes, thermal processes and separation processes.

(Dual-listed with A B E 556). (Cross-listed with C R P). (3-0) Cr. 3. F.

Prereq: C R P 351 or C R P 551 or NREM 345 or NREM 546 or GEOL 552
Introduction to automated geoprocessing in Geographic Information Systems. Focus on learning scripting language and object-oriented programming, automation of custom-designed geoprocessing scripts, and application toward student research and/or interests.

(Dual-listed with A B E 469). (2-3) Cr. 3. S.

Prereq: A B E 216
Cereal grain and oilseed production, properties, and quality assessment. Design of storage systems, drying systems, material handling, and size reduction systems. Design of cereal grain processing systems, including dry milling, wet milling, flour milling, feed milling, and fermentation facilities.

(Dual-listed with A B E 472). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered even-numbered years.

Prereq: A B E 216, M E 231
Principles and design of animal environmental control systems. Insulation, heat and mass transfer, fans, ventilation, air distribution, heating and cooling equipment, and controls. Individual and group projects required for graduate credit.

(Dual-listed with A B E 478). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.

Prereq: E M 324
Design of light-framed wood structures using LRFD and ASD design procedures. Includes analysis of wind, snow, dead, and live loads. Applications include animal housing and machine storage. Fasteners, laminated posts, truss design and use of National Design Specifications.

(Dual-listed with A B E 480). (2-2) Cr. 3. F.

Prereq: A B E 380 or permission of the instructor
Systems-level quantitative analysis of various biological systems, including applications in foods, feeds, biofuels, bioenergy, and other bio-based systems. Introduction to techno-economic analysis and life-cycle assessment of these systems at multiple production scales. Applying these tools to evaluate and improve cost and sustainability performance. Students enrolled in ABE 580 will be required to conduct additional learning activities.

Cr. 1-3. Repeatable.


Guided instruction and self-study on special topics relevant to agricultural and biosystems engineering.

Courses for graduate students:

(Cross-listed with TSM). (1-0) Cr. 1. F.


Keys to starting a successful graduate research project. Effective literature review, formulating research questions, and setting goals. Practicing effectively communicating research and science. Effective strategies for scholarly writing, professional development, responding to feedback, peer-reviewing, successful publishing in journals, and curating scholarly output.

(Cross-listed with AGRON, ANTHR, SOC, SUSAG). (3-0) Cr. 3. F.

Prereq: Graduate classification, permission of instructor
Historical, biophysical, socioeconomic, and ethical dimensions of agricultural sustainability. Strategies for evaluating existing and emerging agricultural systems in terms of the core concepts of sustainability and their theoretical contexts.

Cr. arr. Repeatable.


Advanced topics.

(Cross-listed with TSM). Cr. 1-3. F.S.

Prereq: Graduate classification and permission of instructor
Graduate student experience in the agricultural and biosystems engineering departmental teaching program.

Cr. R. Repeatable.

Prereq: Permission of department chair, graduate classification
One semester and one summer maximum per academic year professional work period.

Cr. arr. Repeatable.


Research.

Cr. arr. Repeatable.


Guided graduate research in biosystems engineering.

Cr. arr. Repeatable.


Guided graduate research in computer-aided design.

Cr. arr. Repeatable.


Guided graduate research in environmental systems.

Cr. arr. Repeatable.


Guided graduate research in food engineering.

Cr. arr. Repeatable.


Guided graduate research in occupational safety.

Cr. arr. Repeatable.


Guided graduate research in power and machinery engineering.

Cr. arr. Repeatable.


Guided graduate research in structures.

Cr. arr. Repeatable.


Guided graduate research in process engineering.

Cr. arr. Repeatable.


Guided graduate research in environment and natural resources.

Cr. arr. Repeatable.


Guided graduate research in waste management.