The study of biology spans from the atomic scale to ecosystems. In the BSBE minor, students may choose from a basket of courses that cover two broad themes at the level of structure and function: (1) molecules and cells, and (2) systems such as tissues and organs. Courses explore basic topics leading to an understanding of function and dysfunction, and possible interventions for dysfunction. Engineering approaches for manipulating biological systems are discussed in both the themes. The breadth of the courses results in a scenario where interested students can choose courses that focus on fundamental or translational topics, or a mix of both.

UG alumni who have done a BSBE minor have gone on to pursue research all over the world in areas that involve biology, overlapping with their core engineering discipline.