Graduate Program Climbs In National Rankings

Moving on up!

The Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering’s graduate program ranking moved up from #10 to #8 in this year’s US News and World Report Graduate School Engineering Rankings.

“The department’s ranking is a direct reflection on our already strong program that has been bolstered by hiring some of the best new faculty members in our discipline,” notes BAE Department Head Dr. Garey Fox. “The NC State BAE department is experiencing an unprecedented period of growth and development, we have increased our efforts in communicating the impact of our research, extension, and academic programs, and we are investing significant financial resources into our laboratories and classrooms. It is an exciting time to be a part of our graduate programs.”

Dr. John Classen, director of graduate programs in the department, agrees.

“New faculty entering the department also bring in new capabilities,” he says. “They are bringing new ways of thinking and solving problems and there is an emphasis on collaboration within the department, college and university. Updated labs and facilities present even more opportunities.”

Other reasons he cited that NC State BAE is a great environment to continue an education in biological and agricultural engineering included the friendly atmosphere, opportunities for research and collaboration and the location itself.

“Raleigh is a great place to live and there is always something to do,” Classen adds.

While the improved ranking may be something prospective students are interested in, current students are excited about the news as well.

“It means a great deal to be in a top 8 program. It reflects all the hard work done by the faculty and students in our department. I know that when I graduate and go to find a job that having NC State on my CV means a lot,” explains Rachel Taylor, graduate student and president of the Graduate Student Association. “The recognition is well deserved. Our department is dynamic and evolving to meet the food, water and energy needs of a growing population.”

Learn more about NC State BAE graduate studies.