Credit Hours - 45

YEAR 4 COURSE WORK

The student submits a written report for grading in content and makes an oral presentation before an external and internal examiner(s) for assessment in technical presentation. 

Credit Hours - 3

YEAR 3 COURSE WORK

This part of the thesis ends in oral presentation of preliminary research findings before a panel of internal examiners, staff and students of Agricultural Engineering Department covering Results, Discussions, Conclusions and Recommendations. 

Credit Hours - 3

YEAR 2 COURSE WORK

Experiential Research Learning (ERL) is an apprenticeship scheme which starts soon after the comprehensive examination, practical training with faculty in research work in industry/government institution related to the candidates’ area of research or specialization and present a report on their experience at the end of the second year before a panel of internal examiners, staff and students of Agricultural Engineering Department. Supervisors will report on student’s work in this regard as well.

Credit Hours - 3

YEAR 2 COURSE WORK

This part of the thesis ends in a comprehensive written research proposal and oral presentation before a panel of internal examiners, staff and students of Agricultural Engineering Department covering Introduction, Review of Literature, Materials and Methods or Designs.

Credit Hours - 3

POST-HARVEST ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: This course is intended to equip students with the necessary competence to extend the shelf life of biological materials. It is also to teach the design of optimal packaging to extend the shelf life of food products.

Course content: Topics include formulation of materials, basic uses of packaging materials, packaging design and limitation of various materials, characteristics of packaging materials, physical and chemical properties of packaging materials as relates to their function in various packaging systems, testing for structural quality and performance, package design related to fabrication and function while placing emphasis on integral packaging systems including material, fabrication, filling, closing, distribution, and end use. 

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:

1. experimentally determine the necessary product specific biological materials necessary for packaging.
2. determine optimal packaging material for individual products.
3. determine the optimal climatic conditions necessary for the extension of shelf life of packaged and non-packaged food products.
4. determine the shelf life of a food product.

Mode of delivery: Didactic lectures, problem sets, seminars, webinars and laboratory work.

Credit Hours - 3

POST-HARVEST ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: This course is intended to equip students with the biological and technological foundations for understanding and tackling post-harvest issues in agricultural supply chains. 

Course content: Topics include postharvest losses; overview, principle of postharvest physiology, respiration and ethylene, cooling methods, quality and maturity, principles of postharvest pathology, spoilage, preservation of food and quality standards for fresh produce, digital imaging in standardization of fresh produce, packaging, MAP and CA, light processing of harvested fresh produce, Marketing Information System (MIS), non-chemical treatments in postharvest and future trends in postharvest.

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:

1. determine post-harvest losses in various agricultural value chains.
2. experimentally determine the biological and environmental factors affecting deterioration of food.
3. determine adequate packaging and handling technologies for specific food products.
4. develop technology for managing the packaging and handling of specific food products.

Mode of delivery: Didactic lectures, problem sets, seminars, webinars and laboratory work.

Credit Hours - 3

POST-HARVEST ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: This course is intended to equip students with the requisite skill and knowledge necessary to manage industrial food processing operations and how several unit operations are implemented on an industrial scale.

Course content: Topics include thermal processes in food engineering and machines for primary/secondary processing of local crops for food and raw materials, industrial processing of fishes, animals and their products, engineering principles of food crop preservation, grain drying and storage in the tropics, aeration of grain storage, preservative processing, storage of fruit and vegetable crops as well as grain and root crop quality.

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to

1. design unit operations necessary to produce a food commodity on an industrial scale.
2. analyze the efficiency on an industrial process flow and/or unit operation.
3. troubleshoot existing industrial food process operations.

Mode of delivery: Didactic lectures, problem sets, seminars, webinars and laboratory work.

Credit Hours - 3

POST-HARVEST ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: This course is intended to equip students to select, implement and analyze unit operations and experimental and mathematical determination of the parameters of these operations in food processing.

Course content: Topics include material and energy balances, thermodynamics and unit operations, thermal processing, refrigeration, and freezing, evaporation and dehydration, separation processes, food quality evaluation, agitation, mixing and blending in food processing, processing and preservation methods for cereal grains, legumes and oil crop as well as the influence of processing methods on various quality factors.

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to

1. experimentally study and develop mathematical models for various unit operations.
2. develop advanced controls for various unit operations.
3. determine the optimal unit operations necessary to produce a food commodity.
4. characterize biological properties of food with respect to unit operation.

Mode of delivery: Didactic lectures, problem sets, seminars, webinars and laboratory work.

Credit Hours - 3

POST-HARVEST ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: This course is intended to equip students with the competencies—concepts, techniques and skills required for the design of industrial bio-processes. 

Course content: Topics include properties of food materials, concepts of fluid flow and power requirements for pumping fluids in the food industry. It is also structured to equip the students with knowledge in the application of the theory of heat, mass, and momentum transfer in the food industry, fuel utilization in the food industry, heat and mass transfer, insulation, heat exchangers designs and applications. 

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:

1. determine the machine requirements and specifications for industrial bio-process applications.
2. develop and simulate mathematical models of various industrial bio-process applications.
3. design technology for industrial thermodynamic operations.
4. troubleshoot industrial thermodynamic operations.

Mode of delivery: Didactic lectures, problem sets, seminars, webinars and laboratory work.

Credit Hours - 3

POST-HARVEST ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: This course is intended to equip students with the requisite skill and knowledge for environmentally sustainable decision making and understand scientific frameworks used for analyzing the environmental, social and economic impact of development policies.

Course content: Topics include environmental consequences of development projects and methods of impact analysis, physical, sociological, legal, economic, environmental and public health implications of human activities with reference to developing countries. It will additionally deal with the role of environmental engineering in preventing or reducing environmental stress, planning and policy, administration and organization of natural resources development and public health as well as land use planning and landscape design. 

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:

1. conduct comprehensive environmental impact assessment.
2. use engineering techniques to mitigate the negative impact of interventions.
3. evaluate development policies for optimization.

Mode of delivery: Didactic lectures, problem sets, seminars, webinars and laboratory work

Credit Hours - 3

POST-HARVEST ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: This course is intended to equip students with the requisite knowledge and skill for designing and implementing food storage and handling systems. 

Course content: Topics include traditional storage structures, design of modern storage structures, consideration of lateral loads, theories of failure in non-fluid masses and fibrous materials, design of container walls for combined loading, hopper bottom bins and flow properties of bulk materials, factors influencing selection of materials handling equipment, treatment of specific handling equipment as links in a total process, economics and cost analysis, design and development of handling equipment.

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to

1. select appropriate food storage and handling systems for food processing operations.
2. design and analyze food storage and handling systems.
3. implement and evaluate food storage and handling systems.
4. troubleshoot food storage and handling systems.

Mode of delivery: Didactic lectures, problem sets, seminars, webinars and laboratory work.

Credit Hours - 3

POST-HARVEST ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: This course is intended to equip students with the requisite skills and knowledge for optimal drying of agricultural commodities and determination of necessary drying parameters necessary for the simulation of drying operations.

Course content: This course is structured to prepare students in theoretical foundations which will equip them with the necessary understanding to perform analysis of crop drying systems. It is intended to provide students with the requisite knowledge in the determination of drying constants for local food crops, energy sources for crop drying, solar energy utilization and simulation of drying systems.

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to

1. develop and simulate food drying models.
2. experimentally determine food model parameters.
3. select optimal drying technologies for respective foods.
4. characterize biological properties of food with respect to various drying technologies.

Mode of delivery: Didactic lectures, problem sets, seminars, webinars and laboratory work.

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: To develop the students’ skill in the theory for the design, utilization and management of livestock machinery. 

Course content: Topics include students’ understanding of systems, mechanisms and principle of operation of hay harvester, forage harvester, balers and dairy machine set ups. It will also introduce students to milking machines, hatchery equipment, setters and hatchers, egg handling, layout of setters and puckers. The course will focus on the principles of incubator design, design of feeders and drinkers for poultry, poultry feed preparation and feed mixers as well as egg grading.

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to: 

• develop machinery use and management plan for livestock production 

• ensure sustainability in machinery use for livestock production

• recommend and design new innovative livestock production machinery

Mode of delivery: Lectures, practical sessions, weekly student seminar, weekly assignments.

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: This course aims at introducing students to waste management and its relevance to agriculture, natural resources, animals and humans. 

Course content: This course is designed to introduce students to the types of agricultural waste, amount and volume. The course will focus on agricultural waste associated with animals such as manure, bedding and litter, wasted feed and wastewater from buildings. The course will provide students with the ability to be able to perform characterization of solid and liquid wastes from animal, crop, and food production systems.

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to: 

1. develop efficient waste management systems for farming activities 
2. ensure the appropriate waste management method is being used
3. recommend and design new innovative waste management systems

Mode of delivery: Lectures, practical sessions, weekly student seminar, weekly assignments.

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: This course is intended to impart the students with the skills, concepts, techniques, in the design of agricultural process engineering. 

Course content: Topics include kinetics of biological reactions; reactor dynamics and design, food rheology and texture, water activity and the role of water in food processing, unit operations, design thermal processing, drying, freezing and separation processes, application of heat and mass transfer, fluid flow, food properties, and food processing constraints in the design and selection of food process equipment. 

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of the course students should have:

1. Understanding of the kinetics of biological reactions; reactor dynamics and design 
2. Understanding of food rheology and texture, water activity and the role of water in food processing 
3. Understanding in the application of heat and mass transfer, fluid flow, food properties, and food processing constraints in the design and selection of food process equipment. 

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: The purpose of this course is to enhance students’ knowledge in agricultural tractor power, thermodynamic principles and construction of tractor engines, agricultural power systems and how to effectively utilize them. 

Course content: This course is to improve students’ understanding of tractor power applications, drawbar power, power-take-off power and hydraulics. The course will introduce students to renewable energy like solar and wind, emphasizing on the definitions, theory, applications and design analysis of solar thermal and photovoltaic system. It will also focus on wind power, wind energy conversion system, types of wind turbines and application of wind power in agriculture as well as biofuels, biogas and bioethanol. 

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to: 

1. develop and improve existing agricultural power sources 
2. use basic theories to select appropriate power sources for agricultural activities.
3. efficiently plan the use of farm equipment and the power sources 

Mode of delivery: Lectures, practical sessions, weekly student seminar, weekly assignments

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: This course is intended to develop students’ skills in agricultural machinery design and selection, concepts, techniques, mode of operation and design of agricultural machinery and implement. 

Course content: This course is intended to provide students with knowledge in principles of construction, design, operation and adjustment of machines and implements for tillage, implement attachment and control systems, coupler requirements for trailed and mounted implements, mechanical and hydraulic power transmission systems and components, principles of construction, design, operation of machines used in the farm for seeding, planting, fertilizing, weed control, thinning, spraying, dusting, stalk cutting, forage harvesting and harvesting. 

Learning outcomes:

Upon completion of this course, students should be able to: 

• design agricultural machinery and implements

• evaluate the performance of agricultural machinery and implement

• recommend appropriate machinery for agricultural production activities

Mode of delivery: Lectures, practical sessions, weekly student seminar, weekly assignments.

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Objectives: This course is intended to impart into students the knowledge and skills for identifying emerging problems and provide solutions.

Course content: This is a directed study on special problems that involve unique applications of Agricultural Engineering. This course is intended to allow students carry out analysis of a specified engineering problem in general area of interest or in candidate’s area of specialization related to the area of research work conducted by a postgraduate student but different from the specific research topic.

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:

1. identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems.
2. apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs.
3. develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions.
4. acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.

Mode of delivery: Lectures, practical sessions, Lectures, regular assignments, student seminar presentation.

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Objectives: This course is intended to impart to students the knowledge and skills in advanced project management. To teach students to be able to apply advanced management and quality control skills to projects.

Course content: This course covers such topics as avoiding mistakes when executing and controlling a project, dealing with evolving stakeholder expectations, using trend analysis to measure project. Some other topics to deal with include project selection and initiation, project execution methodology, project variance and control as well as project closure and learning. Advanced and newly developed quality control and improvement methods such as modified and acceptance charts, multiple stream process control, control charts with adaptive sampling and engineering process control for quality, international standards of acceptance sampling, economic design and implications of quality control and improvement procedures will be dealt in detail. Quality policies and objectives will also be treated.

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course students should be able to:

1. manage all kinds of projects
2. ensure that quality control measures are implemented effectively
3. deal with project selection issues
4. apply project execution methodology

Mode of delivery: Lectures, group presentations, weekly assignments.

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: This course aims at preparing students to be able to evaluate, design and construct agricultural structures. 

Course content: Topics include design, evaluate and interpret construction plans and calculate a bill of materials, selection of materials in relation to use, types of structural frames, design criteria and structural analysis techniques for agricultural structures, depth of embedment for lateral stability and uplift resistance and wood and metal treatment.

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to: 

• plan a farmstead

• develop appropriate agricultural structures 

• incorporate environmentally sustainable concepts into structure design

Mode of delivery: Lectures, practical sessions, weekly student seminar, weekly assignments.

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: This course is designed to develop skills in selection, operation, maintenance and management of agricultural machinery, principles of machinery use and management on farms. 

Course content: Topics include machines for crop production and farm mechanization in developing environments, machines for land clearing such as bulldozer, tree extractors, graders, rollers and planers, development of land for agricultural use - cuts and fills and cost analysis of agricultural land development, performance and efficiency indicators, drawbar power, axle power, rate of work and power requirements. 

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to: 

• develop a machinery management system for selected farms 

• select the appropriate machinery performance indicator for specific machines

• plan farm mechanization activities efficiently.

Mode of delivery: Lectures, practical sessions, weekly student seminar, weekly assignments

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: To equip students with the competencies to develop and use tillage machinery effectively. To teach the theory of soil and machine interaction during tillage and traction. 

Course content: This course is aimed at providing knowledge to students on mechanical properties of agricultural soils, effect of cementation, compaction and moisture, soil‐metal interaction in soil and moisture conservation. Students will be introduced to mechanics of interactions between soils, tillage and traction devices and determination of physical properties of soil. It is intended to enhance students’ understanding of stress and strain analysis of soils due to machine-applied loads, experimental and analytical methods for synthesising characteristics of overall systems. 

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to: 

1. apply the various theories of soil mechanics in the design and use of farm machinery 
2. use basic soil mechanics and traction theories to select appropriate machinery for tillage.
3. efficiently plan the use of farm equipment and the power sources 

Mode of delivery: 

Lectures, practical sessions, weekly student seminar, weekly assignments

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: This course is intended to equip students with the skills set needed for selecting instruments to obtain appropriate measurements during machine systems research. 

Course content: Topics include application of measuring instruments and devices for obtaining experimental data in machine systems research, motion, force, torque and shaft power, pressure and sound flux and humidity measurement, sensing elements, data manipulation, computing and compensating devices, data transmission and recording, signal conditioning, specialised measurement systems, flow measurement systems, pneumatic measurement systems, and heat transfer effect in measurement systems and ultrasonic measurement systems. 

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to: 

• design experiments in machine systems

• select the appropriate instruments and method for accurate data acquisition during research 

• analyze and interpret data with machine systems background 

Mode of delivery: Lectures, Practical sessions, weekly assignments.

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Objectives: To apprise students to strategically identify what is considered opportunities and threats presented by emerging issues in agricultural engineering.

Course content: Topics include current and future trends in some emerging areas of forest engineering, aquacultural engineering, safety, health, ergonomics, nursery and greenhouse engineering, power systems and machinery design, food and bioprocess engineering, biosystems, biomedical and bioresources engineering, electrical systems; structures and environment; natural resources and energy.

Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of this course students will be able to:

1. use expertise to identify and research areas of contemporary and emerging agricultural engineering issues. 
2. analyze the political aspects of contemporary and emerging agricultural engineering issues. 
3. describe how agricultural engineering issues emerge and develop

Mode of delivery: Lectures, presentations, weekly assignments

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Objective: This course is intended to provide students with skills needed to carry out experimental design and be able to perform analysis in engineering research. This course will teach students how to carry out experimental design and analyze data.

Course Content: Topics include procedures involved in conducting scientific research, various statistical approaches, tools used for analyses of research data, choice of appropriate statistical analysis for analyses of a given set of data and ethical issues associated with research, identify a scientific problem, gap analysis, formulation of research questions and hypothesis, design of experiments, qualitatively and quantitatively analyze data using the appropriate statistics and disseminate results through oral reports, thesis and research articles.

Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:

1. collect data with the right method, choose appropriate statistical methods for specific data analysis, write scientific reports as well as cite and reference literature.
2. apply common engineering experimental design features appropriately in addressing research questions
3. distinguish between primary and secondary outcome variables and demonstrate knowledge of different types of variables
4. demonstrate statistical reasoning skills correctly with unadjusted and adjusted parallel group analyses

Mode of delivery: Lectures, weekly assignments, student presentations

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objectives: This course is intended to impart knowledge to students’ analytical, evaluative and advanced skills—design, supervision, construction and management of irrigation and drainage systems.

Course content: Topics include land drainage systems, design of surface drainage systems, design of subsurface drainage systems and investigation of drainage design parameters, theories for steady and non-steady state flows, surface flow, farm drainage, open and pipe drainage techniques, materials for pipe drainage systems; layout and installation of pipe drains, maintenance and machinery requirements. 

Learning outcomes: After completion of this course the student should be able to:

1. deal with the design, supervision, construction and management of irrigation and drainage system.
2. analyze, evaluate and applied in problem solving as well as support policy formulation and development of growth and sustainability plans for the sector.
3. plan and conduct original and advanced research according to internationally recognized standards in irrigation and drainage.
4. pursue careers in irrigation and drainage systems management.

Mode of delivery: Lectures, practical sessions, weekly assignments.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: This course is intended to equip students with the knowledge of flow in the subsurface (porous media), focusing on quantitative modelling and to formulate physical laws and constitutive rules governing flow in porous media.

Course content: Topics include soil water, water and soil in equilibrium, structure of water forces and energy, movement of water in soils, saturated flow, Darcy’s law and Laplace equation, fundamental concept of unsaturated flow improved. Additionally, the course will focus on differential equations of unsaturated flow and their solutions, diffusivity, infiltration, Philip’s solution for horizontal and vertical infiltration. 

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of the course students should be able to:

1. obtain basic understanding of soil physical properties and processes 
2. gain practical experience with measurement and analysis of physical processes
3. become familiar with analysis methods and tools applicable to solving practical problems related to agricultural, hydrological and environmental problems

Mode of delivery: Lectures, practical sessions, weekly assignments.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: Topics include to impart students with skills and knowledge to understand principles of erosion and sediment transport.

Course content: The course focusses on analysis of the interaction between fluids and solids. empirical and theoretical background that forms the modern basis for evaluating and understanding erosion and sediment transport systems, mechanics of sediment transport, incipient motion, bed forms, bed load, suspended load, wash load and total load, practical applications of sediment transport in open channels and reservoir sedimentation modelling erosion, sediment transport processes, surface erosion mechanisms and interaction with climate, land cover and topography. 

Learning outcomes: At the end of the course students should be able to:

1. understand factors affecting erosion and sediment transport.
2. critically evaluate current trends in erosion and sediment transport mitigation.
3. calculate erosion and sediment yield
4. evaluate the erosion and sediment transport
5. apply their knowledge to solve problems related to erosion and sediment transport

Mode of delivery: Lectures, practical sessions, weekly assignments.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 semester 2)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: This course is intended to equip students with knowledge and skills to perform engineering hydrology computations and how the water cycle applies to the environment.

Course content: Topics include hydrology and applications to environmental problems. The course is intended to promote students’ understanding of the hydrological cycle and its component processes, the hydrologic budget and water balance equation, precipitation, vegetative-canopy interception, evaporation, evapotranspiration, infiltration, unsaturated flow, and direct runoff, overland flow, flow routing, runoff hydrographs, groundwater flow, measurement of hydrologic variables and their common units of measurement. 

Learning outcomes: At the end of the course students should be able to:

1. compute hydrologic mass balance in a closed basin. 
2. develop unit hydrographs based on stream flow data and conduct basic unit hydrograph analysis. 
3. conduct frequency analysis on hydrologic data to determine return period or recurrence interval. 
4. perform hydrologic and hydraulic routing using governing equations for hydraulic river routing. 
5. understand basic concepts of hydrologic simulation modeling to evaluate potential impacts of management decisions. 
6. compute critical flow and critical depth in floodplain hydraulics. 
7. compute groundwater drawdown based on water well withdrawal. 

Mode of delivery: Lectures, weekly assignments, PowerPoint presentations.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Objectives: This course is intended to impart into students the knowledge and skills for identifying emerging problems and provide solutions.

Course content: This is a directed study on special problems that involve unique applications of Agricultural Engineering. This course is intended to allow students carry out analysis of a specified engineering problem in general area of interest or in candidate’s area of specialization related to the area of research work conducted by a postgraduate student but different from the specific research topic.

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:

1. identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems.
2. apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs.
3. develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions.
4. acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.

Mode of delivery: Lectures, practical sessions, Lectures, regular assignments, student seminar presentation.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Objectives: This course is intended to impart to students the knowledge and skills in advanced project management. To teach students to be able to apply advanced management and quality control skills to projects.

Course content: This course covers such topics as avoiding mistakes when executing and controlling a project, dealing with evolving stakeholder expectations, using trend analysis to measure project. Some other topics to deal with include project selection and initiation, project execution methodology, project variance and control as well as project closure and learning. Advanced and newly developed quality control and improvement methods such as modified and acceptance charts, multiple stream process control, control charts with adaptive sampling and engineering process control for quality, international standards of acceptance sampling, economic design and implications of quality control and improvement procedures will be dealt in detail. Quality policies and objectives will also be treated.

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course students should be able to:

1. manage all kinds of projects
2. ensure that quality control measures are implemented effectively
3. deal with project selection issues
4. apply project execution methodology

Mode of delivery: Lectures, group presentations, weekly assignments.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: This course is intended to equip students with the knowledge required for identifying, formulating and management of water resource related issues/problems. 

Course content: This course includes skills, plan, develop and manage water resources, water impounding reservoirs, design criteria, spillway capacity, siting and management, water diversion, conveyance, distribution systems and energy dissipaters. Students’ understanding will be improved in irrigation water quality and management, assessment of surface and groundwater resources, water resources planning, water resources management, water demand management and integrated water resources management.

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course students should be able to:

1. plan, develop and manage water resources
2. design water diversion, conveyance, distribution systems and energy dissipaters
3. calculate the amount of suspended and bed load To give training to students to prepare them for conducting high value research on water resources and other related issues. 
4. perform flood frequency analysis and flood routing.
5. apply basic knowledge in the design of dams.
6. carry out assessment of surface and groundwater resources

Mode of delivery: Lectures, practical sessions, regular assignments.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: This course is intended to equip students with knowledge in advanced groundwater hydrology and systems function.

Content: Topics include occurrence of groundwater, aquifers & their properties, Darcy's law, permeability, transmissibility, stratification, confined groundwater flow and unconfined groundwater flow under Dupit's assumptions, well hydraulics, steady flow into confined and unconfined wells and unsteady flow in a confined aquifer, finite-difference models of steady-state and transient groundwater flow in the saturated and unsaturated zones, applications to regional groundwater flow, groundwater recharge, and subsurface contributions to stream flow, and aquifer evaluation.

Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of this course students will be able to:

1. Understand the porous medium properties that control groundwater flow and transport, including porosity, hydraulic conductivity, and compressibility. 
2. Derive effective hydraulic conductivity for various cases of heterogeneous subsurface formations. 
3. Apply groundwater flow equations to confined and unconfined aquifers. 
4. Analyze pump test data to determine aquifer properties. 
5. Estimate travel times for groundwater contaminants in a saturated aquifer. 
6. Design a groundwater pumping system to mitigate contaminant migration. 

Mode of delivery: Lectures, practical sessions, weekly assignments.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Electives (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: To equip students with knowledge and appropriate techniques to the effective design, test, and analyze agricultural irrigation and drainage systems and their components.

Course content: Topics include crop water requirement, irrigation regime determination and irrigation scheduling, fertigation principles and technology and software, fertilizer application calculation, irrigation technology, irrigation methods, sprinkler and micro sprinkler irrigation, drip irrigation, greenhouse irrigation and mechanized irrigation, irrigation system design and computer applications water pumps, filtration, control head and automation, water quality and maintenance of irrigation equipment. 

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:

1. determine crop water requirement, irrigation regime determination and irrigation scheduling.
2. apply fertigation principles and technology.
3. perform fertilizer application calculation and fertigation software.
4. select the right water pumps, filtration, and control head automation.
5. design irrigation system with computer applications.

Mode of delivery: Lectures, practical sessions, regular assignments.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Elective (Students should select at least one elective to be selected)

Objective: This course is intended to provide students with the requisite skills to become experts in design and evaluation of soil and water conservation systems including soil erosion, farm drainage and irrigation systems.

Course content: Topics include hydrology and hydraulics in agricultural and urbanizing watersheds, design and evaluation of systems for the conservation and quality preservation of soil and water resources, the use and analysis of hydrologic data in engineering design, relationship of topography, soils, crops, climate, and cultural practices in conservation and quality preservation of soil and water for agriculture.

Course Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of the course students should be able to: 

1. develop an analytical approach to the application of design fundamentals in farm soil and water conservation problems. 
2. analyze the hydrologic, soil and crop resources affecting the design of soil and water conservation systems. 
3. design and evaluate systems for the conservation and quality preservation of soil and water resources. 
4. design of soil and water conservation facilities. 
5. concisely and articulately communicate quantitative specifications for farm soil and water conservation systems.

Mode of delivery: Lectures, practical sessions, weekly assignments.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Objectives: To apprise students to strategically identify what is considered opportunities and threats presented by emerging issues in agricultural engineering.

Course content: Topics include current and future trends in some emerging areas of forest engineering, aquacultural engineering, safety, health, ergonomics, nursery and greenhouse engineering, power systems and machinery design, food and bioprocess engineering, biosystems, biomedical and bioresources engineering, electrical systems; structures and environment; natural resources and energy.

Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of this course students will be able to:

1. use expertise to identify and research areas of contemporary and emerging agricultural engineering issues. 
2. analyze the political aspects of contemporary and emerging agricultural engineering issues. 
3. describe how agricultural engineering issues emerge and develop

Mode of delivery: Lectures, presentations, weekly assignments.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Objective: This course is intended to provide students with skills needed to carry out experimental design and be able to perform analysis in engineering research. This course will teach students how to carry out experimental design and analyze data.

Course Content: Topics include procedures involved in conducting scientific research, various statistical approaches, tools used for analyses of research data, choice of appropriate statistical analysis for analyses of a given set of data and ethical issues associated with research, identify a scientific problem, gap analysis, formulation of research questions and hypothesis, design of experiments, qualitatively and quantitatively analyze data using the appropriate statistics and disseminate results through oral reports, thesis and research articles.

Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:

1. collect data with the right method, choose appropriate statistical methods for specific data analysis, write scientific reports as well as cite and reference literature.
2. apply common engineering experimental design features appropriately in addressing research questions
3. distinguish between primary and secondary outcome variables and demonstrate knowledge of different types of variables
4. demonstrate statistical reasoning skills correctly with unadjusted and adjusted parallel group analyses

Mode of delivery: Lectures, weekly assignments, student presentations.

Credit Hours - 3

Common/Core Course

The student submits a written report for grading in content and makes an oral presentation before an external and internal examiner(s) for assessment in technical presentation.

Credit Hours - 3

Common/Core Course

This part of the thesis ends in oral presentation of preliminary research findings before a panel of internal examiners, staff and students of Agricultural Engineering Department covering Results, Discussions, Conclusions and Recommendations. 

Credit Hours - 3

Common/Core Course

Experiential Research Learning (ERL) is an apprenticeship scheme which starts soon after the comprehensive examination, practical training with faculty in research work in industry/government institution related to the candidates’ area of research or specialization and present a report on their experience at the end of the second year before a panel of internal examiners, staff and students of Agricultural Engineering Department. Supervisors will report on student’s work in this regard as well.

Credit Hours - 3

Common/Core Course

This part of the thesis ends in a comprehensive written research proposal and oral presentation before a panel of internal examiners, staff and students of Agricultural Engineering Department covering Introduction, Review of Literature, Materials and Methods or Designs.

Credit Hours - 45

Common/Core Course

This is a supervised individual PhD Thesis in Agricultural Engineering undertaken in research, development, design and/or construction and testing, to deepen knowledge, strengthen practical experience and encourage creativity and independent work registered as 15 credits each in the research years 2, 3 and 4, making a total of 45 credits. A thesis shall embody original scholarship and independent research which must make a distinct contribution to knowledge in an area of agricultural engineering.

Credit Hours - 3

POST HARVEST ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Objectives: The objective of this course is to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills related to the preservation of perishable agricultural commodities. This includes understanding the critical impact of both pre-harvest and post-harvest activities on the effectiveness of preservation techniques. The course aims to equip students with the ability to regulate and optimize various activities along the agricultural value chain to maintain commodity quality and extend shelf life.

Learning Outcomes: Upon completing this course, students will be able to:

• Understand the principles and importance of preserving perishable agricultural commodities.
• Identify and analyze the factors affecting commodity preservation, both pre-harvest and post-harvest.
• Apply preservation techniques to maintain quality and extend the shelf life of perishable commodities.
• Develop and implement strategies for regulating activities along the agricultural value chain.
• Evaluate and improve existing preservation systems and techniques.
• Design and optimize integrated preservation systems for specific agricultural commodities.

Course Content: The course will cover the following topics: Introduction to commodity preservation: Importance of preservation in the agricultural value chain, Overview of perishable commodities and their preservation needs, Pre-harvest factors affecting preservation: - Crop selection and genetic factors, Field management practices and environmental conditions. Post-harvest factors affecting preservation- Harvesting techniques and timing, Handling, sorting, and packaging practices, Preservation techniques and technologies - Cooling and refrigeration methods, Modified atmosphere storage, Use of preservatives and coatings, Advanced preservation technologies (e.g., irradiation, high-pressure processing). Regulation and optimization of preservation processes- Quality control and monitoring, Supply chain management and logistics, Risk assessment and mitigation strategies. Case studies and practical applications-Analysis of successful preservation systems, Troubleshooting and improving preservation practices

Course Delivery:

The course will be delivered through a combination of lectures, practical sessions, and project-based learning.

Lectures will cover theoretical foundations and introduce key concepts, while laboratory sessions will provide practical experience with CAD software and modeling tools.

Group projects Students will work on individual and designing and simulating cold chain systems, culminating in presentations and reports that demonstrate their understanding and practical application of the course material.

Assessments will include assignments, project reports, presentations, and practical evaluations.

Guest lectures from industry experts and field visits to cold storage facilities may be incorporated to provide real-world insights and enhance learning.

Credit Hours - 3

POST HARVEST ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Objectives: The objective of this course is to equip students with the scientific knowledge and practical skills necessary to conduct efficient, commodity-specific drying processes. Students will explore the reasons for drying agricultural commodities and learn how to adjust process parameters to optimize drying efficiency. Additionally, students will be introduced to mathematical models and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) systems commonly used in industrial drying setups.

Learning Outcomes: Upon completing this course, students will be able to: 

• Understand the fundamental principles and reasons for drying agricultural commodities. 
• Analyze and optimize process parameters to achieve efficient drying. 
• Apply mathematical models to simulate drying processes. 
• Utilize CAD systems for designing and optimizing drying setups. 
• Evaluate and improve the efficiency of drying processes for specific commodities. 
• Develop and present detailed drying process plans and designs. 

Course Content: The course will cover the following topics: Introduction to agricultural commodity drying- Importance and benefits of drying, Types of commodities and their drying requirements, Principles of drying processes - Heat and mass transfer in drying, Drying kinetics and equilibrium moisture content, Process parameters for drying: Temperature, humidity, and airflow control. Optimization of drying time and energy consumption, Mathematical modeling of drying processes- Development and application of drying models, Simulation of drying curves and prediction of drying behavior, Computer Aided Design (CAD) in drying systems- CAD software for designing drying equipment, Simulation and optimization of drying setups using CAD tools, Case studies and practical applications- Analysis of successful drying processes, Troubleshooting and improving existing drying systems. 

Course Delivery: The course will be delivered through a mix of lectures, laboratory sessions, and project-based learning. 

Lectures will cover theoretical foundations and introduce key concepts, while laboratory sessions will provide practical experience with CAD software and modelling tools. 

Group projects Students will work on individual and to design and simulate cold chain systems, culminating in presentations and reports that demonstrate their understanding and practical application of the course material. 

Assessments will include assignments, project reports, presentations, and practical evaluations. 

Guest lectures from industry experts and field visits to cold storage facilities may be incorporated to provide real-world insights and enhance learning.

Credit Hours - 3

POST HARVEST ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Elective (Students may be required to take 3-6 credits of electives)

Objectives: The objective of this course is to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills related to the design, selection, siting, operation, and management of grain storage systems. Through detailed study and model development, students will gain a thorough understanding of the various factors that contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of grain storage operations.

Learning Outcomes: Upon completing this course, students will be able to:

• Design and select appropriate grain storage systems based on specific needs and conditions.
• Understand and apply principles of siting for optimal storage system performance.
• Operate and manage grain storage systems to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.
• Identify and analyze key issues affecting grain storage operations.
• Develop and utilize models to simulate and solve storage-related problems.
• Integrate best practices for maintaining grain quality and minimizing losses.

Course Content: The course will cover the following topics: Introduction to grain storage systems- Types of storage facilities and Basic principles of grain storage. Design considerations for grain storage systems-Structural design, Capacity planning and Environmental control. Selection criteria for storage systems- Cost analysis, Technological considerations and Safety and regulatory compliance. Siting and layout planning-Site selection factors, Layout optimization, Infrastructure requirements. Operation and management of storage systems- Daily operations, Maintenance practices, Inventory management, Issues in grain storage- Pest and disease control, Moisture management, Temperature control. Development and use of models: Simulation of storage conditions. Predictive modeling for storage issues, Decision support systems, Case studies and real-world applications.

Course Delivery: The course will be delivered through a blend of lectures, hands-on laboratory sessions, and project-based learning.

Lectures will provide theoretical knowledge and introduce key concepts, while laboratory sessions will offer practical experience with grain storage systems and modeling software.

Group projects Students will engage in individual and to design, simulate, and optimize storage systems, culminating in presentations and reports that demonstrate their understanding and practical application of the course material.

Assessments will include assignments, project reports, presentations, and practical evaluations.

Guest lectures from industry experts and field visits to storage facilities may be incorporated to provide real-world insights and enhance learning.

Credit Hours - 3

POST HARVEST ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Objectives: The objective of this course is to provide students with an advanced practical understanding of large-scale unit operations required for the processing of agricultural commodities. Students will develop skills in designing and simulating industrial systems using Computer Aided Design/Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) software. Additionally, the course aims to cultivate an awareness of the economic and environmental sustainability aspects of operational designs in agricultural processing.

Learning Outcomes: Upon completing this course, students will be able to:

• Develop and design industrial systems for the processing of agricultural commodities.
• Utilize CAD/CAM software for the simulation and optimization of processing designs.
• Analyze the economic feasibility of different processing systems.
• Assess the environmental sustainability of various operational designs.
• Apply theoretical knowledge to practical, real-world scenarios in agricultural processing.
• Integrate considerations of sustainability into the design and operation of agricultural processing systems.

Course Content: The course will cover the following topics: Introduction to large-scale unit operations in agricultural processing. Design principles for industrial agricultural systems.

Use of Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software for system simulation. Case studies of industrial processing systems for various agricultural commodities. Economic analysis of processing systems - Cost-benefit analysis, Economic viability and investment appraisal, Environmental sustainability in agricultural processing- Life cycle assessment and Environmental impact analysis. Practical projects involving the design and simulation of processing systems. Review of current trends and technologies in agricultural processing.

Course Delivery: The course will be delivered through a combination of lectures, hands-on laboratory sessions, and project-based learning.

Lectures will introduce key concepts and theories, while laboratory sessions will provide practical experience with CAD/CAM software and other simulation tools.

Students will work on individual and group projects to design and simulate processing systems, culminating in presentations and reports that demonstrate their understanding and application of the course material.

Assessments will include assignments, project reports, presentations, and practical evaluations.

Guest speakers from the industry and site visits to processing facilities may be incorporated to provide real-world insights and enhance learning.

Credit Hours - 3

POST HARVEST ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Objectives: The objective of this course is to equip students with the necessary skills to design, optimize, and continuously improve systems and processes for the handling and processing of agricultural materials. The course aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of mathematical modeling techniques for system design and operations management strategies for process improvement. By the end of the course, students will be able to apply these skills to enhance efficiency and productivity in agricultural operations.

Learning Outcomes: Upon completing this course, students will be able to:

• Apply mathematical modeling techniques to design optimal systems for agricultural materials handling and processing.
• Analyze and evaluate existing agricultural systems to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement.
• Implement operations management and improvement techniques to enhance process efficiency.
• Develop strategies for continuous improvement in agricultural operations.
• Utilize benchmarking techniques to compare and improve agricultural systems and processes.
• Integrate theoretical knowledge with practical applications to solve real-world agricultural problems.

Course Content: The course will cover the following topics: Introduction to systems optimization and process design in agriculture. Mathematical modeling techniques for system design: Linear and nonlinear programming. Simulation modeling Optimization algorithms.

Designing optimal and efficient systems for agricultural materials handling and processing.

Operations management principles: Process analysis and improvement, Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, Benchmarking techniques for identifying best practices in agricultural systems.

Continuous improvement strategies and methodologies. Case studies and practical applications in agricultural materials handling and processing. Integration of modeling and management techniques for comprehensive system optimization.

Course Delivery: The course will be delivered through a blend of lectures, interactive workshops, and practical laboratory sessions.

Lectures will provide foundational knowledge and theoretical concepts, while workshops will focus on hands-on exercises and real-world problem-solving.

Laboratory sessions will offer opportunities for students to apply mathematical modeling and optimization techniques using specialized software tools.

Group projects and case studies Students will also engage in developing and present solutions to complex agricultural systems challenges.

Continuous assessment will include assignments, project reports, presentations, and practical evaluations.

Guest lectures from industry experts and field visits to agricultural facilities may be incorporated to enhance learning and provide practical insights.

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Elective (Students may be required to take 3-6 credits of electives)

Objectives: Solar Thermal Engineering aims to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and skills in the analysis, design, and utilization of solar energy collection systems for thermal applications, with a focus on agricultural contexts. The course intends to familiarize students with the principles of solar thermal energy conversion, thermal energy storage, and practical applications such as drying agricultural produce using solar energy.

Learning Outcomes: Upon completing this course, students will be able to:

• Understand the fundamental principles of solar thermal energy conversion and its applications in agriculture.
• Analyze and design solar energy collection systems for efficient thermal energy capture.
• Evaluate different methods and technologies for thermal energy storage in solar systems.
• Apply solar thermal engineering principles to design and optimize systems for drying agricultural produce.
• Interpret and utilize computer simulations for modeling solar energy systems and predicting their performance.
• Demonstrate proficiency in conducting feasibility studies and economic analyses for solar thermal projects.
• Develop innovative solutions for utilizing solar thermal energy to address agricultural challenges and enhance sustainability.

Course Content: The course will cover the following topics: Fundamentals of solar thermal energy conversion, including solar radiation principles and collector technologies. Design principles and performance analysis of solar collectors for agricultural applications, such as crop drying. Thermal energy storage techniques, including sensible heat storage, latent heat storage, and phase change materials. Applications of solar thermal energy in agricultural processes, with a focus on drying techniques for various agricultural products. Computer modeling and simulation of solar thermal systems using software tools such as TRNSYS, SAM, and RETScreen. Case studies and real-world examples of solar thermal projects in agriculture, highlighting best practices and innovative solutions. Economic analysis and feasibility assessment of solar thermal projects, considering factors such as investment costs, energy savings, and payback periods.

Course Delivery: The course delivery will involve a combination of lectures, laboratory sessions, computer simulations, and practical demonstrations.

Lectures will provide theoretical foundations and technical insights into solar thermal engineering principles, supplemented by case studies and real-world examples to illustrate practical applications in agriculture.

Laboratory sessions will allow students to experiment with solar thermal equipment and measurement techniques, gaining hands-on experience in system performance evaluation.

Computer simulations will be used to model and analyze solar thermal systems, providing students with practical skills in system design and optimization.

Practical demonstrations and field visits to solar installations will offer students opportunities to observe real-world applications and interact with industry professionals.

Guest lectures by experts in solar energy and agricultural engineering may also be incorporated to provide additional insights and perspectives on the course topics.

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Elective (Students may be required to take 3-6 credits of electives)

Objectives: The objective of this course is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices involved in handling agricultural materials within the production value chain. The course aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to ensure that high-quality agricultural products are delivered to the final consumer.

This includes learning about design considerations for receiving products, selecting optimal equipment sets, minimizing harvesting bottlenecks, ensuring system reliability, and effectively transporting agricultural produce.

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students will be able to:

• Understand and apply design considerations for receiving agricultural products.
• Select and utilize optimal equipment sets for different stages of the agricultural production process.
• Identify and implement techniques to minimize harvesting bottlenecks.
• Evaluate and enhance system reliability in the agricultural production value chain.
• Develop strategies for the effective transportation of agricultural produce.
• Analyze and optimize the overall handling process to maintain product quality.

Course Content: The course will cover the following topics: Introduction to agricultural materials handling and the production value chain. Design considerations for receiving agricultural products. Principles and criteria for selecting optimal equipment sets. Techniques for minimizing bottlenecks during harvesting. Methods for ensuring system reliability and maintenance. Strategies for the transportation and logistics of agricultural produce. Case studies of successful agricultural handling systems. Practical applications and problem-solving in agricultural materials handling.

Course Delivery: The course will be delivered through a combination of lectures, hands-on laboratory sessions, and project-based learning. Lectures will provide the theoretical foundations and cover detailed case studies, while laboratory sessions will offer practical experience in designing and testing handling systems. Students will engage in individual and group projects to apply concepts learned and solve real-world problems related to agricultural materials handling. Regular feedback sessions will be conducted to review progress and provide guidance. Assessments will include project reports, presentations, and practical evaluations. Workshops on advanced handling techniques and system optimization will be integrated to enhance the learning experience.

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Elective (Students may be required to take 3-6 credits of electives)

Objectives: Modeling and Analysis of Biological and Physical Systems aims to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to develop mathematical models for biological and physical systems encountered in agricultural and biological engineering. The course seeks to enable students to analyze these models using both analytical and numerical methods, providing them with a practical understanding of modeling techniques and their applications in real-world scenarios.

Learning Outcomes: Upon completing this course, students will be able to:

• Understand the principles of mathematical modeling and its applications in biological and physical systems.
• Develop mathematical models to describe the behavior of biological and physical systems in agricultural and biological engineering.
• Apply analytical methods to analyze mathematical models and obtain exact solutions where possible.
• Utilize numerical methods to solve complex mathematical models and obtain approximate solutions.
• Evaluate the validity and accuracy of mathematical models through sensitivity analysis and model validation techniques.
• Interpret model results and draw conclusions regarding the behavior and dynamics of biological and physical systems.
• Apply modeling techniques to solve practical problems encountered in agricultural and biological engineering, using case studies from various specializations within the field.

Course Content: The course will cover the following topics: Introduction to mathematical modeling and its significance in agricultural and biological engineering. Principles of system modeling, including formulation of mathematical equations and selection of model parameters.

Analytical methods for solving ordinary and partial differential equations, including separation of variables, Fourier series, and Laplace transforms. Numerical methods for solving differential equations, including finite difference methods, finite element methods, and numerical integration techniques. Techniques for model validation and sensitivity analysis, including error analysis and parameter estimation. Application of mathematical modeling to biological and physical systems, including crop growth models, ecological models, and fluid dynamics simulations. Case studies illustrating the use of mathematical modeling in agricultural and biological engineering, covering topics such as irrigation management, pest population dynamics, and environmental impact assessments.

Course Delivery: this course will include a combination of lectures, hands-on exercises, computer simulations, and case study discussions.

Lectures will provide theoretical background on mathematical modeling principles and techniques, supported by examples and demonstrations.

Hands-on exercises will allow students to practice developing and solving mathematical models using computational tools such as MATLAB, Python, or specialized software packages.

Computer simulations will provide students with practical experience in applying modeling techniques to real-world problems, while case study discussions will illustrate the diverse applications of mathematical modeling in agricultural and biological engineering.

Guest lectures by experts in the field may also be included to provide additional insights and perspectives on specific modeling applications.

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Objectives: Soil-Machine Relations in Tillage and Traction aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the interactions between soil and tillage machinery used in agricultural practices. The course seeks to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze the physical properties of soil, assess stress and strain induced by machinery loads, and synthesize soil-tillage tool systems for optimal performance.

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students will be able to:

• Understand the fundamental principles governing the interactions between soil and tillage machinery.
• Identify and analyze the relevant physical properties of soil that influence tillage operations.
• Evaluate stress and strain distribution in soils subjected to machine-applied loads.
• Apply experimental and analytical methods to characterize and optimize soil-tillage tool systems.
• Develop strategies to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of tillage practices based on soil-machine relations.

Course Content: The course will cover the following topics: Introduction to soil-machine interactions in agricultural tillage and traction. Fundamentals of soil mechanics and relevant physical properties of soil. Analysis of stress and strain in soils under machine loads. Influence of soil properties, such as texture, structure, and moisture content, on tillage operations.

Experimental methods for assessing soil-tillage tool interactions. Analytical techniques for modeling and optimizing soil-tillage systems. Case studies and practical applications of soil machine relations in agricultural practices.

Course Delivery: This will comprise a blend of theoretical lectures, laboratory experiments, field demonstrations, and case study analyses.

Theoretical lectures will provide foundational knowledge on soil mechanics and the principles of tillage machinery.

Laboratory sessions will allow students to conduct experiments to measure soil properties and analyze stress and strain behavior.

Field demonstrations will provide practical insights into tillage practices and soil-machine interactions in real-world settings.

Case study analyses will enable students to apply theoretical concepts to practical scenarios and evaluate the performance of soil-tillage systems.

Guest lectures by industry experts may be incorporated to provide insights into innovative technologies and best practices in agricultural tillage and traction.

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Objectives: It aims to provide students with practical knowledge and skills in the utilization of farm machinery and implements for field operations. Through this course, students will gain an understanding of the specific field conditions necessary for efficient machinery operation and develop proficiency in managing machinery use in agricultural settings. Furthermore, the course will cover technical specifications, field operation analysis, and economic and capacity assessments of machinery and systems.

Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Identify and assess specific field conditions conducive to effective machinery operation.
• Demonstrate competency in managing machinery operations in various field environments.
• Analyze technical specifications of farm machinery and implements for optimal performance.
• Evaluate field operations to enhance efficiency and productivity.
• Conduct economic and capacity analyses to optimize machinery utilization and resource allocation.

Course Content: The course will cover the following topics:

• Understanding specific field conditions for efficient machinery operation.
• Management of machinery operation in diverse field settings.
• Technical specifications and analysis of farm machinery and implements.
• Evaluation of field operations, including time and motion studies.
• Economic analysis of machinery and system utilization.
• Capacity analysis to optimize machinery performance and resource allocation.

Course Delivery: The course will utilize a variety of delivery techniques including:

Lectures: Providing theoretical foundations and practical insights into field mechanization and machinery management.

Practical Demonstrations: Hands-on experience with farm machinery and implements, including operation and maintenance.

Field Trips: Observation and analysis of machinery operation in real-world field settings.

Case Studies: Analysis and discussion of real-life scenarios to understand machinery management and economic considerations.

Guest Lectures: Industry experts sharing insights and experiences in field mechanization and machinery management.

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Elective (Students may be required to take 3-6 credits of electives)

Objectives: Farm Structures and Environmental Control aims to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and skills in the planning, design, and management of farm structures to enhance agricultural productivity while promoting environmental sustainability.

The course seeks to equip students with the expertise to integrate environmental considerations into the design and operation of farm structures, ensuring efficient resource utilization and waste management practices.

Learning Outcomes: Upon completing this course, students will be able to:

• Understand the principles of farm structure planning and design for optimal agricultural productivity.
• Identify factors influencing the selection, siting, and layout of farm structures, considering environmental sustainability.
• Analyze different types of farm structures and their functions in agricultural operations.
• Evaluate environmental impacts associated with farm structures and develop strategies for mitigating negative effects.
• Apply principles of waste management to minimize environmental pollution and optimize resource utilization on the farm.
• Demonstrate proficiency in environmental control techniques for stored agricultural products, ensuring quality and safety.
• Integrate knowledge of farm structures and environmental control into comprehensive farm management plans to enhance overall efficiency and sustainability.

Course Content: The course will cover the following topics: Principles of farm structure planning and design, including site selection, layout optimization, and building materials selection. Types of farm structures and their functions, such as barns, silos, greenhouses, storage facilities, and animal housing. Environmental considerations in farm structure design, including energy efficiency, water management, and habitat conservation. Waste management strategies for farm operations, including composting, recycling, and waste reduction techniques. Environmental control systems for stored agricultural products, including temperature and humidity regulation, pest management, and ventilation. Case studies and practical examples illustrating successful farm structure designs and environmental management practices. Regulatory requirements and standards for farm structures and environmental management, including compliance with environmental laws and regulations.

Course Delivery: Course delivery will include a combination of lectures, laboratory demonstrations, field visits, and hands-on exercises.

Lectures will provide theoretical background on farm structure planning, environmental control techniques, and waste management principles, supplemented by case studies and real-world examples. Laboratory demonstrations will allow students to observe and analyze environmental control systems and equipment used in farm structures.

Field visits to local farms and agricultural facilities will provide practical insights into farm structure design and environmental management practices.

Hands-on exercises will give students the opportunity to apply course concepts to design projects and practical scenarios, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Guest lectures by industry experts and practitioners may also be included to provide additional perspectives and practical insights into farm structure design and environmental management.

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Elective (Students may be required to take 3-6 credits of electives)

Objectives: Energy Systems aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the theory and applications of energy systems in agricultural mechanization. The course seeks to familiarize students with various energy conversion technologies and equip them with the knowledge and skills to analyze energy systems, evaluate their performance, and assess their economic and environmental implications in agricultural contexts.

Learning Outcomes: Upon completing this course, students will be able to:

•  Understand the principles of energy conversion and the operation of different energy systems used in agricultural mechanization.
• Identify and describe various energy conversion technologies, including cogeneration, heat pumps, fuel cells, hydroelectric, wind, photovoltaic, and biomass conversion processes.
• Analyze the input-output characteristics of energy systems and evaluate their efficiency and performance.
• Conduct energy balances and assess the thermodynamic availability of energy systems.
• Evaluate the economic viability of energy systems and analyze their cost-effectiveness in agricultural applications.
• Assess the environmental impact of energy systems and propose strategies for sustainable energy use in agriculture.

Course Content: The course will cover the following topics: Introduction to energy systems and their significance in agricultural mechanization. Principles of energy conversion and the operation of energy conversion devices. Overview of energy sources used in agriculture, including fossil fuels, renewable energy sources, and biofuels. Detailed examination of various energy conversion technologies, such as cogeneration, heat pumps, fuel cells, hydroelectric, wind, photovoltaic, and biomass conversion processes. Methods for analyzing the input-output characteristics of energy systems and conducting energy balances. Evaluation of the thermodynamic availability of energy and its implications for agricultural applications.

Economic analysis of energy systems, including cost estimation, payback periods, and return on investment. Environmental considerations in energy system design and operation, including emissions, pollution, and sustainability.

Course Delivery: Course delivery will involve a combination of theoretical lectures, laboratory demonstrations, case studies, and group discussions.

• Theoretical lectures will provide students with foundational knowledge on energy systems

and their applications in agriculture.

• Laboratory demonstrations will allow students to observe and analyze the operation of energy conversion devices.
• Case studies will provide real-world examples of energy system design, implementation, and evaluation in agricultural settings.
• Group discussions will facilitate peer learning and critical thinking on key concepts and applications.
• Guest lectures by industry experts may be included to provide insights into emerging technologies and best practices in agricultural energy systems.

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Elective (Students may be required to take 3-6 credits of electives)

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Objectives: AREN 613: Engineering Properties of Agricultural Materials aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the engineering properties of agricultural materials relevant to post-harvest operations. The course will focus on equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to assess, measure, and analyze various engineering properties of agricultural materials, considering the influence of different harvesting methods and timing.

Learning Outcomes: Upon completing this course, students will be able to:

• Understand the engineering properties of agricultural materials and their significance in post-harvest operations.
• Identify and measure key engineering properties of agricultural materials, such as moisture content, density, porosity, and mechanical strength.
• Analyze how different harvesting methods and timing affect the properties of agricultural materials.
• Evaluate the suitability of different measurement techniques for assessing engineering properties of agricultural materials.
• Apply acquired knowledge to effectively select appropriate methods for analyzing agricultural materials in various scenarios.

Course Content: The course will cover the following topics: Introduction to engineering properties of agricultural materials. Measurement techniques for assessing moisture content, density, porosity, and mechanical properties of agricultural materials. Factors influencing the engineering properties of agricultural materials, including harvesting methods and timing.

Case studies and practical examples illustrating the impact of engineering properties on post harvest operations. selection and application of appropriate methods for analyzing agricultural materials based on specific requirements and conditions.

Course Delivery: Course delivery will incorporate a blend of theoretical instruction, laboratory experiments, and practical demonstrations.

Lectures will provide foundational knowledge on engineering properties of agricultural materials, supplemented by real-world examples and case studies.

Laboratory sessions will allow students to gain hands-on experience with various measurement techniques and equipment used to analyze agricultural materials.

Practical demonstrations will showcase the application of engineering principles in post harvest operations, fostering a deeper understanding of the course concepts.

Guest lectures by industry experts may be organized to provide insights into current practices and emerging technologies in agricultural materials engineering.

Credit Hours - 3

MACHINE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Objectives: The objective of this course is to provide students with practical insights into the use of farm machinery and implements for field operations. The course aims to familiarize students with specific field conditions necessary for effective machinery operation, as well as the management aspects related to machinery use in the field. Students will learn about technical specifications, analysis of field operations, and economic and capacity analysis of machines and systems.

Learning Outcomes: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Understand the specific field conditions required for efficient machinery operation.
• Manage the operation of machinery effectively in various field scenarios.
• Analyze technical specifications of farm machinery and implements.
• Evaluate field operations for efficiency and effectiveness.
• Conduct economic analysis of machinery and systems used in field mechanization.
• Perform capacity analysis to optimize machinery utilization.

Course Content: This course will cover the following topics: Specific field conditions for effective machinery operation, management of machinery operation in field settings, technical specifications of farm machinery and implements, analysis of field operations, including time and motion studies, economic analysis of machinery and systems, capacity analysis t optimize machinery utilization

Course Delivery: The course will be delivered through a combination of:

Lectures: Providing theoretical foundations and practical insights into field mechanization and machinery management.

Practical Demonstrations: Offering hands-on experience with farm machinery and implements, including demonstrations of operation and maintenance.

Field Trips: Allowing students to observe and analyze machinery operation in real-world field settings.

Case Studies: Presenting real-life scenarios to analyze and discuss machinery management and economic considerations.

Guest Lectures: Featuring industry experts who will share insights and experiences in field mechanization and machinery management.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Elective (Students may be required to take 3-6 credits of electives)

Objectives: The objective of this course is to introduce students to a systems approach in studying the Soil-Plant-Water-Atmosphere Continuum (SPAC). The course aims to enhance students' understanding of the complex interactions between soil, plants, water, and atmospheric factors. It also seeks to develop students' abilities to analyze the processes of plant development, transport laws, and the fluxes of heat, gases, and wind. The course will further focus on the environmental factors that affect plant growth, such as temperature, radiation, wind, and water, emphasizing the importance of water for plant development.

Learning Outcomes: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Understand and apply a systems approach to studying the Soil-Plant-Water-Atmosphere Continuum (SPAC). 
• Analyze the processes involved in plant growth and development. 
• Explain the principles of transport laws, gas and radiation laws, and the fluxes of heat, gases, and wind. 
• Evaluate the environmental factors affecting plant growth, including temperature, radiation, wind, and water. 
• Assess the significance of water for plant growth and development. Course Content: This course will cover the following topics: Introduction to the Soil-Plant Water-Atmosphere Continuum (SPAC), plant growth and development processes, transport laws and their applications in SPAC, gas and radiation laws, fluxes of heat, gases, and wind in the SPAC system, environmental factors affecting plant growth: temperature, radiation, wind, and water, the role and significance of water in plant growth 

Course Delivery: The course will be delivered through a combination of: Lectures: Providing theoretical foundations and contextual understanding of SPAC and related principles. 

Laboratory Sessions: Offering hands-on experience with experiments related to soil-plant water interactions and environmental factors. 

Field Studies: Allowing students to observe and analyze real-world examples of SPAC systems and plant growth environments. 

Group Discussions: Facilitating discussions on current research, case studies, and practical applications of course concepts. 

Guest Lectures: Featuring industry and academic experts who will share insights and advancements in the field of soil-plant-water relationships.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Elective (Students may be required to take 3-6 credits of electives)

Objectives: The objective of this course is to provide students with an opportunity to engage in an in-depth, self-directed study on a specific topic within Soil and Water Engineering.

Students will work independently, under the guidance of their graduate advisory committee, to explore a chosen area of interest. The course aims to enhance students' research, analytical, and technical writing skills, culminating in a comprehensive written report that demonstrates expert knowledge on the selected topic.

Learning Outcomes: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Identify and select a relevant topic in Soil and Water Engineering for independent study.
• Conduct thorough literature reviews and/or field studies to gather necessary data and insights.
• Analyze and synthesize information to develop a deep understanding of the chosen topic.
• Demonstrate advanced research skills in the specific area of study.
• Communicate findings effectively through a well-organized and detailed written report.

Course Content: This course will cover the following steps: Selection of a study topic in consultation with the graduate advisory committee, development of a study plan and research methodology, conducting comprehensive literature reviews and/or field studies.

Data collection, analysis, and synthesis, preparation and submission of a written report that reflects expert knowledge on the chosen topic.

Course Delivery: The course will be delivered through a combination of:

Directed Self-Study: Students will independently conduct research and study under the guidance of their advisory committee.

Consultations: Regular meetings with the graduate advisory committee to discuss progress, seek advice, and receive feedback.

Library and Field Research: Utilizing library resources for literature reviews and conducting field studies as necessary.

Written Report: Preparation of a detailed written report that demonstrates a high level of expertise in the selected topic.

Credit Hours - 3

Objectives: The objective of this course is to develop students' abilities in academic research, public speaking, and technical writing through active participation in departmental seminars. Students will gain experience in presenting their research to an academic audience and producing detailed written reports on selected topics. The course aims to enhance students' critical thinking, communication skills, and ability to engage with peer feedback.

Learning Outcomes: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to: 

• Attend and critically evaluate seminars on various topics within the field. 
• Select, research, and prepare a topic for academic presentation. 
• Develop and deliver an effective oral presentation.
• Produce a comprehensive written report on their presentation topic. 
• Engage in constructive peer review and feedback sessions. 

Course Content: This course will include attendance at specified departmental seminars, selection and research of a topic for presentation, preparation and delivery of at least one oral presentation each semester, submission of a detailed written report on the presentation topic, participation in peer feedback and assessment activities.

Course Delivery: The course will be delivered through: 

Seminar Attendance: Students attend and evaluate departmental seminars. 

Independent Research: Students conduct research on their chosen topic. 

Oral Presentations: Students deliver presentations to an academic audience. 

Written Reports: Students submit a written report for assessment. 

Peer Feedback: Students participate in feedback sessions to improve their presentation and writing skills.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Elective (Students may be required to take 3-6 credits of electives)

Objectives: The objective of this course is to enhance students' understanding of advanced principles and practices of water conservation and management. Students will gain in-depth knowledge of water storage structures, water harvesting techniques, embankments, and farm ponds. The course will also focus on flood control measures, design and management of open channels, and the construction and maintenance of vegetative waterways and terraces.

Learning Outcomes: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Explain the principles of water conservation and their importance in sustainable water

resources management.

• Design and evaluate various water storage structures and water harvesting techniques.
• Analyze and construct embankments and farm ponds for effective water management.
• Implement flood control strategies and design open channel systems.
• Construct and maintain vegetative waterways to manage water flow.
• Understand the functions, classification, and design of terraces for soil and water conservation.

Course Content: This course will cover the following topics: Principles of water conservation, design and construction of water storage structures, water harvesting techniques and applications, design and analysis of embankments and farm ponds, flood control methods and strategies, open channel design and management, construction and maintenance of vegetative waterways, terracing: functions, classification, and design

Course Delivery: The course will be delivered through a combination of:

Lectures: Providing theoretical foundations and contextual understanding of advanced water resources management.

Practical Laboratory Sessions: Offering hands-on experience with the design and construction of water management structures.

Page 10 of 59Field Trips: Allowing students to observe and participate in real-world water conservation and management practices.

Guest Lectures: Featuring industry experts who will share insights into current trends and innovations in water resources management.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Objectives: The objective of this course is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of soil and water conservation principles and practices. Students will explore the impact of erosion on the environment and learn various techniques for controlling water and wind erosion. The course aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to design and implement effective conservation structures, including vegetated waterways, terracing, and other field structures. 

Learning Outcomes: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to: 

• Explain the principles of soil and water conservation and their environmental significance. 
• Identify different types of soil erosion and the factors influencing erosion by water. 
• Describe various water erosion control practices. 
• Analyze wind erosion mechanisms and implement effective control measures. 
• Design and construct vegetated waterways and other field structures. 
• Classify, design, and construct different types of terraces. 

Course Content: This course will cover the following topics: Conservation principles and environmental impact, types of soil erosion and factors affecting water erosion, water erosion control practices, wind erosion: types of soil movement, mechanics, and control practices, design and construction of vegetated waterways, field structures for soil and water conservation, terracing: classification, design, and Course

Delivery: The course will be delivered through a combination of: construction Lectures: Providing theoretical foundations and contextual understanding of soil and water conservation principles. 

Practical Laboratory Sessions: Offering hands-on experience with erosion control techniques and conservation structure design. 

Field Trips: Allowing students to observe and participate in the implementation of conservation practices in real-world settings. 

Guest Lectures: Featuring industry experts who will share insights into current practices and innovations in soil and water conservation.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Elective (Students may be required to take 3-6 credits of electives)

Objectives: The objective of this course is to introduce students to the physical properties of soils and their interactions with water. Students will learn about soil composition, soil water potentials, water movement in soil, and the impact of soil physical properties on root growth.

The course aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of soil physics principles and their applications in soil management.

Learning Outcomes: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Understand the composition and structure of soils.
• Explain soil-water interactions and soil water potentials.
• Use potential diagrams to describe soil water retention.
• Apply principles of water movement in soil, including Darcy’s law.
• Analyze the distribution of water in soils and the process of infiltration.
• Evaluate the impact of soil physical properties on root growth.

Course Content: This course will cover composition and structure of soils, interaction of soil and water, soil water potentials and potential diagrams, soil water retention, principles of water movement in soil, darcy’s law, distribution of water in soils, infiltration processes, soil structure and aggregation, soil consistency and strength, effect of soil physical properties on root growth.

Course Delivery: The course will be delivered through:

Lectures: Providing theoretical foundations of soil physics.

Laboratory Sessions: Offering hands-on experience with soil analysis and water movement experiments.

Field Studies: Allowing students to observe soil properties and processes in real-world settings.

Guest Lectures: Featuring experts who will discuss current research and applications in soil physics.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Elective (Students may be required to take 3-6 credits of electives)

Objectives: The objective of this course is to provide students with an in-depth understanding of drainage engineering principles and practices. Students will learn about drainage problems specific to various agro-climatic regions and the techniques for determining saturated hydraulic conductivity. The course will cover both steady and unsteady flow equations in subsurface drainage systems and the design of these systems. Additionally, students will gain knowledge in designing surface drainage systems, tube well drainage systems, drainage of rice fields, and the influence of irrigation on drainage.

Learning Outcomes: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Identify and analyze drainage problems in different agro-climatic regions.
• Determine saturated hydraulic conductivity in soils.
• Apply steady and unsteady flow equations to subsurface drainage system design.
• Design effective subsurface drainage systems.
• Develop surface drainage systems for agricultural fields.
• Design tube well drainage systems for water management.
• Implement drainage systems for rice fields.
• Assess the impact of irrigation practices on drainage efficiency.

Course Content: This course will cover the following topics: Introduction to drainage problems in various agro-climatic regions, Determination of saturated hydraulic conductivity, Steady and unsteady flow equations in subsurface drainage, Design principles of subsurface drainage systems, Surface drainage systems: design and implementation, Tube well drainage systems: design and application, Drainage techniques for rice fields, Influence of irrigation practices on drainage.

Course Delivery: The course will be delivered through a combination of:

Lectures: Providing theoretical foundations and contextual understanding of drainage

engineering concepts.

Practical Laboratory Sessions: Offering hands-on experience with drainage system design

and analysis.

Field Trips: Allowing students to observe and participate in real-world drainage projects and

practices.

Guest Lectures: Featuring industry experts who will share insights into current trends and

challenges in drainage engineering.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 2)

Objectives: The objective of this course is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of various measurement techniques used in engineering. Students will learn about different sensing elements, signal conditioning, recording, and analysis methods, as well as specialized measurement systems. The course aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively use flow, pneumatic, optical, ultrasonic, and heat transfer measurement systems. Additionally, students will gain insights into data acquisition, telemetry systems, and the practical application of dynamometers. 

Learning Outcomes: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to: 

• Explain the principles and applications of various sensing elements. 
• Design and implement signal conditioning and data recording systems. 
• Analyze and interpret data from specialized measurement systems. 
• Demonstrate proficiency in the use of flow and pneumatic measurement systems. 
• Understand the impact of heat transfer in measurement systems and apply appropriate techniques. 
• Utilize optical and ultrasonic measurement systems effectively. 
• Implement data acquisition and telemetry systems in engineering applications. 
• Operate and interpret results from a dynamometer. 

Course Content: This course will cover the following topics: Introduction to sensing elements and their applications, signal conditioning techniques and data recording methods, analysis and interpretation of measurement data, flow measurement systems: principles and applications, pneumatic measurement systems: design and use, heat transfer effects in measurement systems, optical measurement systems: technologies and uses, ultrasonic measurement systems: fundamentals and applications, data acquisition systems: hardware and software integration, telemetry systems for remote data collection, practical use of dynamometers in engineering measurements

Course Delivery: The course will be delivered through a combination of lectures, practical laboratory sessions, and hands-on workshops. Lectures will provide theoretical foundations and contextual understanding of measurement techniques.

Laboratory sessions will offer students the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios, using real measurement equipment. 

Hands-on workshops will focus on the integration and application of various measurement systems, fostering collaboration and problem-solving skills.

Guest lectures from industry professionals will provide insights into current trends and applications in the field of engineering measurements.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Elective (Students may be required to take 3-6 credits of electives)

Objectives: The objective of this course is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of meteorological principles and their applications in agriculture. Students will learn to use meteorological instruments and make observations, understand climatic and atmospheric dynamics, and analyze weather patterns. The course will focus on physical climatology, weather hazards, and crop yield estimation, equipping students with the skills needed to apply physical principles in agro climatology and hydrology.

Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Operate and interpret data from meteorological instruments.
• Explain meteorological and climatic elements and their significance.
• Analyze atmospheric dynamics and their impact on weather patterns.
• Understand the processes of radiation, evaporation, and evapotranspiration.
• Conduct weather analysis and forecasting.
• Apply physical climatology principles to agricultural contexts.
• Identify and assess weather hazards affecting agriculture.
• Estimate crop yields using FAO models, sample plot methods, and other techniques.

Course Content: This course will cover the following topics: Introduction to meteorological instruments and observations, meteorological and climatic elements, atmospheric dynamics and their implications, radiation, evaporation, and evapotranspiration processes, weather analysis and forecasting methods, physical climatology and its agricultural applications, weather hazards and their impact on agriculture, crop yield estimation techniques (FAO models, sample plot yield estimation), application of physical principles in agro climatology and hydrology.

Course Delivery: The course will be delivered through a combination of:

Lectures: Providing theoretical foundations and contextual understanding of agro meteorology.

Practical Laboratory Sessions: Offering hands-on experience with meteorological instruments and data analysis.

Field Trips: Allowing students to observe and participate in weather data collection and crop yield estimation in real-world settings.

Guest Lectures: Featuring industry experts who will share insights into current practices and innovations in agro meteorology.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Objectives: The objective of this course is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of irrigation engineering principles and practices. Students will learn the importance of irrigation, elements of irrigation systems, and the fundamental relationships between soil and water. The course will also cover soil water measurement techniques, agricultural weather stations, and methods for estimating irrigation water requirements.

Additionally, students will be equipped with the skills to apply both physically based and empirical evapotranspiration (ET) equations, determine ET from satellite images, and understand crop coefficients and irrigation efficiencies.

Learning Outcomes: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

•  Understand the importance of irrigation and its role in agriculture.
• Identify and describe the elements of different irrigation systems.
• Explain basic soil-water relationships and conduct soil water measurements.
• Utilize agricultural weather stations for irrigation management.
• Estimate irrigation water requirements using various methods.
• Apply physically-based and empirical ET equations.
• Determine ET from satellite images.
• Calculate crop coefficients and evaluate irrigation efficiencies.

Course Content: This course will cover the following topics: Importance and elements of irrigation systems, basic soil-water relationships, soil water measurement techniques, agricultural weather stations and their use in irrigation, methods for estimating irrigation water requirements, physically-based and empirical ET equations, determination of ET from satellite images, crop coefficients and irrigation efficiencies.

Course Delivery: The course will be delivered through a combination of:

Lectures: Providing theoretical foundations and contextual understanding of irrigation engineering principles.

Practical Laboratory Sessions: Offering hands-on experience with soil water measurement techniques and the use of agricultural weather stations.

Field Trips: Allowing students to observe and participate in irrigation practices and the use of irrigation systems in real-world settings.

Guest Lectures: Featuring industry experts who will share insights into current practices and innovations in irrigation engineering.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Objectives: The objective of this course is to provide students with a thorough understanding of the hydrologic cycle, the global and Ghanaian water budgets, and catchment hydrology. Students will learn about stream patterns, basin descriptions, and various methods for measuring stream flow. The course aims to enhance students' knowledge in stage-discharge relationships, the extension of rating curves, and the selection and management of stream

gauging sites and networks.

Learning Outcomes: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

•  Explain the components of the hydrologic cycle and the global water budget.
•  Analyze Ghana’s water budget.
•  Describe catchment hydrology, including stream patterns and basin characteristics.
•  Measure stream flow using different techniques such as the area-velocity method and the moving-boat method.
•  Develop and interpret stage-discharge relationships.
•  Extend rating curves for stream gauging.

• Select appropriate sites for stream gauging and design a stream gauging network.

  Course Content: This course will cover the following topics: The hydrologic cycle: components and processes, global water budget and Ghana’s water budget, catchment hydrology: stream patterns and basin descriptions, stream flow measurement: methods and techniques (stage measurement, discharge measurement by area-velocity method, moving- boat method, and others), stage-discharge relationships and rating curve extension, selection of stream gauging sites, design and implementation of stream gauging networks Course Delivery: The course will be delivered through:

  Lectures: Providing theoretical foundations and contextual understanding of hydrologic principles and measurement techniques.
  Practical Laboratory Sessions: Offering hands-on experience with stream flow measurement equipment and data analysis.

  Field Trips: Allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, observing and participating in stream gauging activities.
  Guest Lectures: Featuring industry experts who will share insights into current practices and innovations in agro hydrology.

Credit Hours - 3

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING OPTION (Year 1 Semester 1)

Course Description:

AREN 601: RESEARCH METHODS IN ENGINEERING (3 Credits) Objectives: The primary objective of this course is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the engineering research process. Students will learn to develop research proposals, design effective questionnaires, and utilize interviewing techniques and content analysis. The course aims to enhance students' proficiency in both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, including measurement strategies, and to equip them with the skills necessary for proficient research report writing. Additionally, the course will cover inferential statistics, various sources of data, data collection procedures, literature surveys, and the analysis of time series and cross-sectional data.

Learning Outcomes: By the end of this course, students will be able to:

•  Develop and articulate research proposals relevant to engineering.
•  Design and implement effective questionnaires for data collection.
•  Apply appropriate interviewing techniques in their research.
•  Conduct comprehensive content analysis in the context of engineering research.
•  Demonstrate proficiency in qualitative and quantitative research methods.
•  Employ measurement strategies effectively in their research.
•  Write detailed and coherent research reports.
•  Utilize inferential statistics to analyze research data.
•  Identify and utilize various sources of data for their research.
•  Implement robust data collection procedures.
•  Conduct thorough literature surveys.

•  Analyze and interpret time series and cross-sectional data in research contexts.

  Course Content: The course content is designed to cover all critical aspects of the engineering research process. Key topics include: ,Introduction to engineering research methods and processes, Development and articulation of research proposals, Questionnaire design and survey methodologies, Interviewing techniques for qualitative research, Content analysis methods and applications, Qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, Measurement strategies in research, Research report writing techniques, Inferential statistics and their application in research, Sources and types of data in engineering research, Data collection procedures and best practices, Conducting literature surveys, Time series analysis and cross-sectional data interpretation

  Course Delivery: The course will employ a variety of delivery techniques to ensure a comprehensive learning experience. These will include:
  Lectures: Interactive lectures to introduce and explain key concepts and methodologies. Workshops: Hands-on workshops for practical application of research techniques and tools. Seminars: Student-led seminars for the discussion of research proposals and findings. Case Studies: Analysis and discussion of case studies to apply theoretical knowledge to real- world scenarios.

  Group Projects: Collaborative projects to foster teamwork and practical implementation of research methods.
  Guest Lectures: Sessions with industry experts to provide insights into contemporary research practices.

  Online Resources: Access to online databases, journals, and research tools. Assessments: Regular assessments, including quizzes, assignments, and a final research project, to evaluate student understanding and progress.