Engineering combines quantitative analysis and synthesis to elucidate system design principles. Through the genomics revolution engineers can now begin to tackle biological problems using the same "measure, model, and manipulate" approach they have applied to physics and chemistry. Indeed, applying this system approach is widely recognised as essential not only for the development of innovative biotechnologies but also to yield fundamental scientific understanding of biological systems. As our ability to modify and control biological systems increases, biological processes will replace chemical and mechanical processes due to their inherent advantages of renewable resources, mild operation conditions and minimal waste problems. Early signs of the change are seen not only in the high-value pharmaceutical industry, but also in the production of bulk chemicals like lysine by fermentation and in bioleaching of copper and gold from mineral ore. Advances in our understanding of and ability to mimic biological systems are also inspiring completely new approaches such as nanotechnology and tissue engineering, which will form the foundation of new industries of the 21st century.

In this dual major, biological engineering is taught together with chemical engineering. Graduates are accredited as chemical engineers having completed every compulsory course. Graduates provide traditional chemical engineering industries an understanding of the opportunities offered by biotechnology and provide emerging biotechnology companies the power of the "measure, model, and manipulate" engineering approach. Graduates are also well prepared for graduate studies in biological engineering and medicine.