Agricultural Engineering
Source: https://admissions.purdue.edu/majors/agricultural-engineering/ Parent: https://admissions.purdue.edu/academics/majors/
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Agricultural Engineering
Build the future of agriculture — design smarter machines, create sustainable solutions and tackle challenges in food production, water and the environment. Turn your passion for innovation into action and engineer lasting impact.
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Program Summary
Agricultural engineering equips you to solve the world’s most pressing challenges in food production, water, energy and the environment. Transform ideas into innovation as you design advanced machines, systems and technologies through practical coursework and hands-on learning opportunities both in and out of the classroom. In our ABET-accredited program, learn everything from mechanical design and hydraulics to sensors and electronics, gain the skills to lead in industries — or launch your own startup. Apply engineering to real-world problems in precision agriculture, biotechnology and sustainability while building a career that drives real impact.
Quick Facts
- Degree: Bachelor of Science
- Location(s): West Lafayette
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College/School: Agriculture
Why Purdue?
100%
Placement Rate within six months of graduation
with an average starting salary of $71,310
3
Agriculture Program in the U.S.
QS World University Rankings, 2025
Applying
Applying to Engineering in West Lafayette
To study agricultural engineering at Purdue, you will apply to either the first-year engineering or agricultural and biological engineering (pre) major. All engineering students in West Lafayette build a foundation for success by completing core first-year engineering curriculum, which is the same in either path, before transitioning to a specialty major in the second year. Core curriculum includes courses in math, chemistry, physics, computer programming and communication skills, as well as introductory engineering coursework that explores career options to help you identify which specialty major is the right fit.
The priority application deadline for first-year engineering and agricultural and biological engineering (pre) is Nov. 1. Applications received after Nov. 1 for this competitive major will be evaluated based on available space.
Possible Careers
Combine engineering expertise with leadership in the agricultural industry for a high-impact, hands-on career such as:
- Agricultural engineer
- Machinery design engineer
- Manufacturing engineer
- Precision agriculture specialist
Internships and Graduate Hires
Through innovative hands-on experiences and world-class instruction, our graduates launch careers at top companies or pursue advanced higher education. Some examples include:
- Hydraulics module engineer, John Deere
- Engineering manager, Caterpillar
- Senior engineer, CNH Industrial
- Design engineer, Harley-Davidson Motor Company
- Master of Science graduate program, Iowa State University
- Master of Science graduate program, University of Illinois
- Master of Science graduate program, Purdue University
**High School Course Recommendations****
You should pursue the most rigorous high school curriculum available to you. Succeeding in challenging courses will make you a stronger candidate for Purdue’s competitive admission process and better prepare you for college success.
Minimum high school coursework (many applicants exceed these minimums):
- Math – 4 years
- English – 4 years
- Lab science – 3 years
- Social studies – 3 years
- World language – 2 years
In addition to meeting or exceeding the minimum high school course requirements, our holistic review process places particular emphasis on key academic courses such as:
- Calculus (if available at high school)
- Four years of laboratory sciences, including:
- Biology
- Chemistry (expected)
- Physics (if available at high school)
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College of Agriculture
Discover over 30 majors, plus minors and concentrations, at one of the world’s top-ranked agricultural colleges.
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Office of Academic Programs\ (765) 494-8470\ purdueag@purdue.edu
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Experience for yourself all that Purdue has to offer with opportunities to explore in-person or virtually.
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Ready to take the next step? Apply to begin your journey at Purdue in engineering.
Meet Our Students
Clare McNicholas
Clare McNicholas chose agricultural engineering at Purdue after a high school camp opened her eyes to how engineers can solve real-world problems like food and water shortages. “I was hooked from that moment,” she says. Since then, two internships have given her the hands-on experience and confidence to pursue her dreams.
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**Transfer to**** Agricultural Engineering
Purdue admits to individual majors. Transfer students must meet Purdue’s overall transfer criteria, as well as any major-specific requirements. Before you apply, check the closed programs page to confirm this major is open to transfer students. If it is, refer to the information below for major-specific transfer criteria.
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
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For detailed admissions requirements to transfer into any of Purdue’s engineering majors, review our engineering transfer criteria.
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