Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering

The Master of Science degree program in Biomedical Engineering is designed for individuals seeking a deep understanding of engineering applications to living systems, with a strong emphasis on pragmatic and rigorous, hands-on educational experiences. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped to make significant contributions to the biomedical field.

Program Objectives

The objectives of the MS in Biomedical Engineering program are to:

• Provide graduates with a rigorous, broad-based advanced education in engineering coupled with applied biology, preparing them for diverse career opportunities in biomedical engineering.
• Offer an empowering professional degree for students intending to become practicing engineers.
• Provide job-entry education for the complex and evolving interdisciplinary area of biomedical engineering.
• Establish a foundation that enables graduates to maintain currency in their fields.
• Prepare students for further study in engineering and/or medicine, leading to the Doctor of Engineering, MD, Ph.D, or MD/Ph.D degrees.

Prerequisites for Admission

For admission as a classified graduate student, an applicant must possess a bachelor's degree in engineering or a closely related physical science with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 in the last 90 quarter units (60 semester units) attempted. Additional requirements include:

• Submission of scores for the General Test of the Graduate Record Examination.
• Submission of 3 letters of reference in support of their application. A college-level biology course, with laboratory, for biology majors is highly recommended. Applicants who meet these standards but lack prerequisite coursework may be admitted as conditionally classified students and must make up any deficiencies before advancement to candidacy.

Program of Study

Graduate students must file formal study plans with their advisor, department, college, and university graduate studies office, as well as fulfill the Graduation Writing Requirement no later than the end of the quarter in which the 12th unit of approved graduate course work is completed. The formal program of study must include a minimum of 45 units with:

• At least 23 units of the 45-unit program at the 500 level.
• A thesis or project as the mandatory culminating experience.

Degree Requirements and Curriculum

The program is structured to provide a comprehensive education in biomedical engineering, with a focus on both theoretical foundations and practical applications. The curriculum is designed to meet the program objectives, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their future careers in the biomedical field.