By Andi Anderson
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is celebrating a major achievement as its Agricultural and Biological Engineering (ABE) undergraduate program has been ranked number two in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
This recognition places the program among the very best in the country and underscores its long-standing reputation for academic excellence.
Department head and professor Ronaldo Maghirang credited the success to the dedication of students, faculty, alumni, and donors. He emphasized that graduates are addressing critical issues such as food security, sustainable agriculture, and environmental systems, making a significant impact worldwide.
The ABE department is uniquely housed in both the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) and The Grainger College of Engineering.
This joint structure provides students with the strengths of two top colleges, offering world-class instruction, hands-on laboratory and field experiences, and access to interdisciplinary research institutes.
College of ACES Dean Germán Bollero highlighted the program’s momentum and growing popularity. With the largest undergraduate enrollment in the college’s history, students are drawn to Illinois for opportunities to learn, innovate, and lead in agriculture, biotechnology, and environmental systems.
Graduates of the program are highly sought after, with about 95% employed or pursuing advanced degrees within six months of graduation. Starting salaries average around $82,000, with careers spanning roles such as process engineering, water resource management, product development, and environmental engineering.
Employers include Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, consulting firms, and top research institutions.
The department also offers highly ranked graduate programs that attract top students globally. Advanced studies focus on areas such as digital agriculture, industrial biotechnology, synthetic biology, water resources, and sustainable ecosystems, ensuring continued innovation and leadership in the field.
Students interested in shaping the future of agriculture and environmental systems can explore undergraduate and graduate opportunities in this nationally recognized program at the University of Illinois.
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Categories: Illinois, Education