Biological Engineering is the integration of Natural Sciences and Engineering Sciences with a view to industrial application of organisms, cells, parts of cells and their molecular constituents to obtain products and services. Its objective is to form "Process Engineers" with a strong component in Chemical Engineering aiming at the industries where biological, chemical or physical-chemical processes predominate, in the fields of biotechnology, bioengineering and bio-nanotechnology.
The training combines theoretical and practical aspects adequately. It has a common path up to the third grade (first cycle), leading to a diploma on Biological Engineering Sciences (Bachelor). The 5 years allow obtaining a Master degree in Biological Engineering. The last two years offer two choices of specialization: "Chemical and Food Technology", where it is placed emphasis on the food domain (design and optimization of processes, new products, quality and safety) and "Environmental Technology", focusing on wastewater treatment and waste management and environmental management systems.
There are many reasons to opt for Biological Engineering as a course: satisfaction and professional autonomy, scientific and technological culture, variety of career opportunities, good employability, advanced knowledge, stimulating work, intellectual development and creative thinking.
It is expected that the Biological Engineer is able to demonstrate creativity, proactive attitude, communication skills, leadership and entrepreneurship, teamwork and networking, awareness of citizenship and eco-sustainable behaviour.