Texas A&M’s Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering Ranks 1st in the Nation

Texas A&M’s Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering has been ranked the No. 1 undergraduate engineering program in the United States by U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 “Best Colleges” list.

The Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering is part of both the School of Agriculture and Life Sciences and the School of Engineering at Texas A&M University. The department rose two spots from No. 3 in the 2024 rankings.

Dr. Patricia Smith, chair of the Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, said the top ranking is a milestone that faculty, staff and students should celebrate.

Smith said the ranking reflects the collective commitment to excellence and the daily efforts of everyone at the department.

“We are thrilled to be named a national leader,” Smith said. “Our department is energized by this news and excited to stay on top of our game and strive for even better opportunities and outcomes for our students, faculty and staff.”

Building relationships, developing students

Jeffrey W. Savell, Ph.D., vice chancellor and dean of the College of Agriculture and Biological Sciences, said the higher ranking underscores the faculty’s commitment.

“It is a source of pride for the College that the department has achieved the highest national ranking,” he said. “It is also remarkable because the department integrates so much of what we do in agriculture and life sciences. Many faculty from our other departments work with faculty and students in the Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering to provide innovative solutions to so many challenges that directly relate to the economy, the environment and our quality of life.”

Smith said the ranking validates the department’s strategic plan over the past year, which prioritized engaging stakeholders, industry and federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture, to provide innovative opportunities for faculty and students.

There have also been concerted efforts to engage students in networking, educational, and competitive activities, including through the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers, the international professional organization dedicated to the field.

“We put a lot of effort into building relationships,” Smith said. “That includes engaging with stakeholders to identify and address their needs across industries and emerging technologies. At the same time, we found ways to connect with students to enhance their development and prepare them for careers in their chosen field.”

About US News & World Report Rankings

US News publishes top college rankings each year to allow prospective students and their families to compare the merits of bachelor’s degree programs offered by U.S. colleges and universities.

The rankings offer detailed information about institutions and data on factors such as performance measures — including graduation rates, alumni debt and earnings after graduation.

The ranking data comes from statistical studies conducted at more than 1,500 institutions in the United States. According to the US News data team, the ranking methodology considers as many as 17 factors, including quality of teaching, return on investment, earnings, debt, Pell Scholars and first-generation college students.