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Master’s Degree in Biomedical Engineering

Biomedical Engineering is the application of engineering principles as well as the design concepts for medicine and biology for healthcare purposes. Biomedical engineering closes the gap between engineering and medicine.
According to BLS, employment in the life, physical, and social sciences is projected to grow 5% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations. Biomedical engineering is a smart choice for students who love the technical aspect of medicine.

You might be wondering what the difference is between biomedical engineering and bioengineering. Basically, bioengineering is the study of applied engineering practices within general biology and biomedical engineering is a more specialized field within bioengineering, working to improve human health.

Online or In-person

When it comes to getting your master’s degree in biomedical engineering, you can find an in-person program or an online program. The benefits of an online program may appeal to working professionals or those looking for a career transition. In-person programs may appeal more to those coming from undergraduate programs or those who simply want that in-person experience.

A Master’s in Biomedical Engineering

Going to get your master’s in biomedical engineering can give you better opportunities in your career field. In a master’s of biomedical engineering program, students will take what they have learned about all parts of the human body and work to figure out new medical devices that can improve quality of life. Students in these types of programs will learn about the healthcare industry and scientific technology.

Concentrations in Biomedical Engineering

Different concentrations will have different types of coursework. Here are some concentrations that you might find in a master’s of biomedical engineering program:
  • Biomaterials - Students will learn the fundamentals of materials science and engineering.
  • Biotechnology - Students will focus on the combination of biology and technology.
  • Immune Engineering - Students will focus on the immune system and how to treat diseases such as cancer.
  • Health Data Science - Students will focus on statistics using mathematics and computer engineering.

Classes in Biomedical Engineering

The classes you take in a master’s of biomedical engineering program will depend on your concentration. Here are a few examples of classes you might take while getting your master’s degree.
  • Biological Physics – this class deals with the systems that are biological in nature, within physics.
  • Molecular Bioengineering – this class will teach students how to use engineering biological systems in order to solve situations in the area of health and wellbeing.
  • Medical Sciences – this class will teach the fundamentals of biology and physiology from an engineering perspective.
  • Biomedical Ethics and Law – this class will teach students about the different ethical, and legal issues that are involved with health care practitioners and biomedical researchers.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements differ based on the school and program, however, most will require students to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school, to complete an application essay, and submit letters of recommendation. Students most likely will need to have a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering, or another science or engineering related field.

Some schools might also require professional experience, but even if the school doesn’t, it can help to have that work experience to put on the application. Schools usually also want students to have a 3.0 GPA or higher.

How to Choose a Program

There are many different factors when choosing the right biomedical engineering master’s program. Students should look at the length of each program, the course format, available concentrations, and final project requirements. Most programs are two years long, but students might also be able to find an accelerated program and be done in a year. It also might depend on if the student goes full or part-time. Students should also consider the curriculum and the cost.

Accreditation status for each program can also make a difference and can affect future career opportunities. Departments often receive accreditation from field-specific accrediting bodies. Accreditation will indicate that the program meets set standards of quality for the profession.

Top Master’s in Biomedical Engineering Programs

There are many different master’s in Biomedical Engineering programs, some are in-person, and some are online.

Here are 10 of the top master’s in biomedical engineering programs:

Top Online Master’s in Biomedical Engineering Programs

Here are 10 of the top online master’s in biomedical engineering programs:

Jobs With a Master’s Degree in Biomedical Engineering

Biomedical Engineering Scholarships for Master’s Degrees

Here are a few scholarships for those getting their master’s in biomedical engineering or a similar major. You can also find other scholarships on College Recon.