Spring 2026 - MSE 360 D100

Introduction to Biosystems Engineering (3)

Class Number: 4065

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

Course Times + Location:

Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Fri, 4:30–7:20 p.m.
Surrey

Instructor:
Laila Benkrima
lba5@sfu.ca
1 778 782-3914

Prerequisites:
CHEM 120.

Introduction to biosystems engineering with relation to agriculture and agricultural engineering. Covers natural resource management including water irrigation, scheduling, conservation and contaminants; soil and soil erosion. Controlled environments for agricultural. Introduction to agricultural machinery. All with a focus on sustainable agricultural practices and understanding the environmental impact assessments of technology and agricultural practices.

COURSE DETAILS:

MSE 360 provides a foundational yet comprehensive introduction to biosystems engineering, emphasizing its vital role in transforming modern agriculture through sustainable and innovative practices. The course covers key topics such as controlled environment agriculture (including greenhouses, vertical farms, and aquaponics), environmental management techniques (temperature, humidity, light, and CO₂ control), and the integration of automation, sensors, and IoT technologies for precision farming. It also explores agricultural mechanization, including machinery, crop establishment, and mechatronics, as well as natural resource management strategies like irrigation, soil conservation, and biogas production. Students will examine various energy systems employed in agriculture, focusing on renewable energy solutions such as solar, wind, and bioenergy. The curriculum incorporates principles of food processing and post-harvest technology, emphasizing food safety, preservation, and packaging. Through lectures, hands-on laboratory activities, including hydroponic systems, greenhouse facility visits, robotic demonstrations, and food processing experiments, and a team project on sustainable vertical farm or greenhouse design, students will develop practical skills and innovative thinking. The course aims to equip students with the knowledge necessary to address contemporary challenges in sustainable agriculture and biosystems engineering, preparing them to collaborate with industry and contribute to food security and environmental preservation.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

The primary educational goal of MSE 360 is to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of biosystems engineering principles as they apply to modern, sustainable agriculture. By the end of the course, students will be able to analyze and apply biosystems engineering concepts, including environmental control, automation, resource management, and machinery, to develop innovative solutions for increasing productivity, resource efficiency, and sustainability in agricultural systems. The course aims to foster critical thinking, technical competency, and problem-solving skills through hands-on labs and industry interactions. Additionally, students will gain the ability to communicate scientific and engineering ideas effectively, collaborate with industry stakeholders, and design integrated systems that address real-world agricultural challenges. Ultimately, these objectives prepare students to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of agricultural sciences and to promote sustainable practices in the rapidly evolving field of biosystems engineering.

Grading

NOTES:

The grading scheme for MSE 360 emphasizes a balanced assessment of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Students will be evaluated through problem sets (20%), laboratory reports (20%), a midterm exam (30%), and a final team-based project (30%). Successful completion of the lab portion is essential to passing the course. The grading scale ranges from A+ for outstanding performance (90-100%) to F for failure (0-49%). This structure encourages consistent engagement with coursework, hands-on activities, and collaborative project development to ensure a comprehensive understanding of biosystems engineering principles.

REQUIREMENTS:

This course requires active participation in both lectures and laboratory sessions, completion of four problem sets, and the successful submission of four laboratory reports. Students are expected to participate in team projects, including designing sustainable vertical farm or greenhouse systems. Attention to safety protocols during laboratory activities is mandatory, especially during field visits and hands-on experiments. Regular attendance, timely completion of assignments, and engagement in discussions are essential components to meet course requirements and achieve learning outcomes.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Students will utilize various materials and supplies for laboratory activities. These include seeds, substrates, nutrient solutions, trays, and sensors such as pH and EC meters, along with basic tools like PPE for farm visits. The project component may require access to simulation software or design tools for developing autonomous vertical farming systems. Lab activities such as hydroponic setups, greenhouse tours, and robotic demonstrations will involve specialized equipment, which will either be provided or can be accessed through campus facilities. Specific budgets are allocated for supplies to ensure experiential learning.

REQUIRED READING:

The core textbook for this course is Introduction to Biosystems Engineering by Holden et al., which provides foundational knowledge and practical insights into biosystems engineering principles. Additional essential readings include Agriculture: A Very Short Introduction by Brassley and Soffe, Animal Agriculture: Challenges and Innovations, and Precision Agriculture Basics, all of which supplement the textbook with current perspectives and case studies. These readings are designed to support both theoretical understanding and application in real-world agricultural contexts, helping students grasp contemporary challenges and innovations in the field.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit:

SFU’s Academic Integrity Policy: S10-01 Policy
SFU’s Academic Integrity website, which includes helpful videos and tips in plain language: Academic Integrity at SFU

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.

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