Advanced degrees in biomedical engineering master’s online degrees lead to well-paying positions in this specialized field. Due to the anticipated 17,900 new biomedical engineering jobs between 2020 and 2030, more universities offer biomedical engineering master’s online than ever before!
Biomedical engineering is a specialized field of biological principles and engineering design processes. Professionals in the field endlessly work to elevate the quality and duration of human life. It is a diverse field with subdisciplines such as implant design, tissue and stem cell engineering, and diagnostic tool development.
Advanced degrees in biomedical engineering master’s online degrees lead to well-paying positions in this specialized field. Due to the anticipated 17,900 new biomedical engineering jobs between 2020 and 2030, more universities offer biomedical engineering master’s online than ever before!
If you have a knack for mathematics and technology, a biomedical engineering career may be the right choice. This article offers information about biomedical engineering master’s programs and the best grad schools for biomedical engineering.
Read on to learn more!
Article Navigation: What is Biomedical Engineering? | Types of Biomedical Engineering | Degree Overview | Admission Requirements | How To Choose The Right Program | Best Online Master’s In Biomedical Engineering | Scholarships and Financial Aid | Licensing and Certification | Careers | Continuing Education | Professional Organizations | FAQs | Get Started Today!
What is Biomedical Engineering?
Biomedical engineering is also known as bioengineering. It is gaining immense recognition as a rapidly-growing field combining life sciences and engineering studies. It offers students the training to expand, promote, and support human health through research programs, coursework, and hands-on practical experimentation. Students in biomedical engineering master’s programs bring to life technological, technical, and scientific expertise for the medical sector.
Top biomedical engineering graduate programs allow students to apply engineering and biological science principles to simplify understanding natural behaviors and systems. Such systems lie on the opposite ends of the human spectrum: from cells and tissues to organs, complete organisms, and even entire populations. These programs also cover a variety of areas and specializations within the biomedical engineering field, including the following:
- Systems physiology
- Drug design, delivery, and pharmaceuticals
- Bioinstrumentation, biomaterials, and biomechanics
- Cellular, clinical, general, rehabilitation, and tissue engineering
In addition, top biomedical engineering graduate programs incorporate crucial professional skills among students. Students become well-versed in measurement, systems identification, data analysis, and simulation. They learn how to apply their knowledge to develop cutting-edge technology and devices that can help individuals with various medical challenges.
Types of Biomedical Engineering
Biomedical engineering is a diverse field with various specialty areas, such as the following:
Bioinstrumentation
This specialization utilizes measurement principles, electronics, and computer science to develop instruments for diagnosing and treating medical conditions.
Biomaterials
Biomaterials entail designing and developing materials practical for use within the human body.
Biomechanics
It involves mechanics – like thermodynamics – to find solutions for biological and medical problems.
Clinical Engineering
This specialization includes collaboration with physicians, nurses, and other medical professionals with expertise in operating and applying technology in healthcare domains. These professionals are also responsible for maintaining medical products in healthcare centers.
Rehabilitation Engineering
Rehabilitation engineering entails the study of engineering and computer science to devise devices that help individuals recover from physical and cognitive impairments.
Systems Physiology
Professionals in this type of biomedical engineering use engineering equipment and tools to dissect how systems function within living organisms and adapt to changes in their particular environments.
Overview – Master’s in Biomedical Engineering Degrees
A master’s in biomedical engineering degree provides training to students on engineering cells and tissues, researching and creating medical devices, and participating in clinical engineering. In a master’s in biomedical engineering, students take courses like systems biology, biomedical data science, tissue engineering, and microengineering. Such studies naturally build on chemistry, mathematics, and biology training of an undergraduate degree in biomedical engineering.
Biomedical engineering master’s online programs pay considerable attention to the theoretical notions in engineering while encouraging students to gain practical experience through research projects. Some of the best grad schools for biomedical engineering offer cellular engineering, biomedical imaging, and biomechanics concentrations. Some graduate students complete a thesis as a part of their advanced degree program.
Master’s in biomedical engineering degree requirements include a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field and specific prerequisites such as calculus, biochemistry, biology, physics, and chemistry.
Students can typically attain a biomedical engineering master’s online within two years. Some universities offer accelerated options completable in as little as one year. Graduates of these programs can apply to a doctoral program in biomedical engineering or enter the workforce with a significant advantage.
What can I expect from a biomedical engineering master’s online?
Most biomedical engineering master’s online require students to complete 28-30 credits in one to two years of full-time study. This diverse program offers students the choice to choose a specialization matching their academic, personal, and career objectives. Some popular concentrations in this program include the following:
Medical Devices
This specialization entails the development of devices, implants, and instruments – such as ventilators and pacemakers – for the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of various diseases.
Medical Imaging
This concentration emphasizes the development of imaging products and medical diagnostics, including CAT scans and MRI machines.
Biomechanics
Biomechanics is the study of mechanical forces that biological systems produce and also covers orthopedic and rehabilitation engineering.
Tissue Engineering
This concentration uses biomedical engineering principles at the gene, cell, and tissue levels to maintain, restore, and enhance organs and tissues.
Neuroengineering
Neuroengineering entails engineering tools relating to nervous system functions and developing innovative technologies for diagnosis, regeneration, and rehabilitation.
Biomedical engineering master’s online programs may offer non-thesis or thesis tracks. Some may require limited in-person participation, including short residency labs or courses. Students need problem-solving and analytical skills and qualities like patience and persistence to undertake challenging experiments and projects with limited oversight. A keen interest and understanding of advanced mathematics, science, and research can also help program participants.
Biomedical Engineering Master’s Online Courses
Since advanced degrees in biomedical engineering are very broad, the curriculum generally emphasizes specialized topics, including the following:
- Biomaterials
- Orthopedic Biomechanics
- Tissue Engineering
- Biomedical Imaging
- Biopharmaceuticals
- Synthetic Biology
- Bioinformatics
- Computational Biology
- Genetic Engineering
- Neuroengineering
Such specialized courses rely heavily on foundations in engineering, biology, mathematics, and chemistry. The classes usually include substantial practical experience and projects that familiarize students with the large-scale datasets they are bound to come across in the industry.
What skills will I acquire in a biomedical engineering master’s online?
A master’s in biomedical engineering online provides various soft skills to students and technical skills. Some common soft skills include the following:
- Attention to detail
- Analysis and measurement
- Effective communication
- Design creativity
- Transforming designs into functional products
- Empathy with patients
- Teamwork
Degree Timeline
Most online master’s in biomedical engineering require two years, and students must generally complete 27 to 38 credits. However, students who must complete prerequisite courses for their particular programs may need additional time. Some universities offer accelerated biomedical engineering degrees online, which are usually completable in one year but require more effort and time.
Admission Requirements for a Biomedical Engineering Master’s Online
Requirements vary depending on the program. Many master’s in biomedical engineering programs require applicants to attain their undergraduate degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program. Depending on the kind of undergraduate degree they own, applicants may also need to undertake extra coursework in biology, advanced mathematics, chemistry, or engineering. Applicants can expect a virtual or in-person interview for admission to specific programs. They may also need to submit certain other items depending on the program, such as the following:
Test Scores
Some online master’s programs may require candidates to submit GRE test scores. When applying to schools that consider submission of test scores optional, students should only offer them if the scores enhance their admission proposal. International students may be required to provide proof of proficiency in the English language by submitting IELTS or TOEFL test scores.
Letters of Recommendation
Most graduate programs in biomedical engineering require candidates to submit two or three letters of recommendation. These letters should ideally be from individuals who can testify to a candidate’s career and academic achievements and their potential to undertake and succeed in this demanding program. Candidates should consider supervisors and past professors, especially those in a relevant field, for letters of recommendation.
Work Experience And Resume
Most master’s degrees require a CV or resume outlining an applicant’s professional experience, including research, internship, and volunteer positions. These documents should also contain any publications or research an applicant took part in, awards earned, and other related achievements.
Personal Statement Essay
Many advanced degree programs necessitate an essay explaining their goals in attaining this degree. These essays facilitate admission officers to achieve insight into the person behind the academic achievements and test scores. Some schools may ask for particular information, whereas others leave them without specific boundaries and requirements.
Official Transcripts
Biomedical engineering degree requirements include official transcripts from an applicant’s post-secondary institutions and a minimum 3.0 GPA. The official transcripts indicate applicants’ eligibility for all the necessary program prerequisites. Additionally, since the transfer credits policies vary program by program, the official transcripts can provide proof of credits.
How To Choose The Right Program
Cost
The cost for an online master’s in biomedical engineering varies for different institutions. Private schools generally cost more, and public schools are less expensive. It is necessary to consider the complete expenditure of the program, including non-resident and technology fees, and compare the cost with other institutions to get a better idea.
Program Format
Online programs generally offer synchronous or asynchronous learning formats. Asynchronous program formats provide more flexibility as synchronous programs entail scheduled weekly classes. Although this program is completable in two years, different program formats and part-time or full-time options may affect the program completion time.
Location
Advanced degrees in biomedical engineering are based on practical learning. Due to the hands-on aspect, most programs require brief on-campus participation. This participation may include optional on-campus coursework or a two-week intensive program. Therefore, it is vital to consider a university’s location and attendance requirements before deciding. Some programs also cost more for out-of-state students.
Accreditation
The accreditation held by an institution or program determines its credibility and effectiveness. It ensures that it meets the high standards set for education. ABET accreditation is the most sought-after accreditation in engineering programs that ensures that prospective employers recognize your degree. Transfer of credits for ABET-accredited programs is also exceptionally convenient.
Student Support Services
Whether in an online or in-person program, adequate student support services are vital for student success. It is crucial to research the student support services various universities offer, as different institutions provide different levels of support. Standard benefits that an advanced degree program in engineering should offer include tutoring, career guidance, mentorship programs, and aid in finding local internships.
Program Length
A biomedical engineering master’s online typically requires two years for completion. However, some universities offer accelerated degrees or part-time options. Students should look into the number of credits necessary for a program and consider additional graduation requirements that may add more time to their schedule.
Fellowship, Thesis, or Work Requirements
Most biomedical engineering programs include a research-based thesis at the program’s culmination. Others may require students to complete relevant field experience. Therefore, knowing about a program’s laboratory or internship requirements is essential to ensure they align with your academic and personal objectives.
School Type and Size
Some students may prefer an extensive alum network and cohort. In contrast, others may like a small class with greater faculty attention. Choose an institution that fits your academic requirements in this regard.
Transfer Policies
Aspirants with prior graduate coursework can save money and time by transferring credits toward their current degrees. However, some programs may allow only a particular number and type of credits transfer, so it is vital to look into your institution’s transfer policy beforehand.
Best Online Master’s In Biomedical Engineering
1. Columbia University in the City of New York
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Program: Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering
Columbia University in the City of New York is located in New York, NY. It boasts a graduation rate of 96%. Each year, Columbia University enrolls more than 31,000 students, many of whom attain degrees and certificates online. It offers an online Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering completable in two years. Graduates who complete this 30-credit program hold the potential to apply for leadership positions in the fields of cell and tissue engineering, biomedical imaging, and biomechanics.
The course covers computational neuroscience, partial differential equations, and quantitative physiology. Six free and guided electives allow students to undertake specific topics such as ultrasound in diagnostic imaging and solid biomechanics. Students can also take cardiac mechanics and study the development of sustainable artificial organs.
Admission requirements to this online biomedical engineering program include a relevant undergraduate degree with at least a 3.0 GPA. Additionally, candidates must submit their GRE score, a current resume, a personal or professional statement, and three recommendation letters.
2. University of Southern California
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Program: Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering
The University of Southern California is located in Los Angeles, California, and boasts a 92% graduation rate. The institute offers various remote degrees and certifications, including an online Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering. Students in this program take an interdisciplinary curriculum to attain the necessary engineering skills and physiological knowledge for an advanced medical technology career or a doctoral degree. The requisite coursework entails physiological control systems, signal and systems analysis, and advanced nervous system study.
Students can use their nine elective credits to follow their professional and academic interests and objectives. To graduate, they must also complete a culminating presentation, thesis research, and defense. Start dates for this two-year biomedical engineering master’s online program are available in summer, spring, and fall. Admission requirements for this advanced program include a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, GRE test scores, three recommendation letters, a CV or resume, and a personal statement.
3. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Program: Master of Engineering in Bioengineering
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is located in Champaign, IL. With a graduation rate of 84%, the institute offers more than 90 online educational programs, including an online Master of Engineering in Bioengineering. The program contains 32 credits and is completable in five semesters. Graduates of this comprehensive program can find employment positions as regulatory affairs specialists, associate product managers, and microfluid engineers.
Core topics include genomics data analysis and managing business operations. Biomedical engineering master’s online students can take advanced classes in one of the three available concentrations: computational genomics, bioinstrumentation, and general bioengineering.
Admission requirements for this advanced program include a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, a minimum 3.0 GPA, three letters of recommendation, a 500-word personal statement, and a resume.
4. Case Western Reserve University
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Program: Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering
Case Western University, located in Cleveland, Ohio, enrolls more than 11,800 students yearly, with a graduation rate of 85%. It offers an online Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering completable in two years. Graduates of this program possess the research skills necessary to land leadership positions in governmental agencies, private companies, and healthcare facilities. Online students can easily access the program’s asynchronous classes through Canvas.
Core coursework includes quantitative analysis of physiological systems, biomedical signals and systems, and tissue biomechanics. Hopefuls who wish to go after healthcare careers can take electives such as biomaterials for drug delivery and nanomedicine. Students must also complete a culminating capstone research project to graduate.
Biomedical engineering degree requirements for admission include the following:
- GRE test scores
- A CV or resume
- Three recommendation letters
- A one-to-two-page personal statement
Paying For A Biomedical Engineering Master’s Online: Scholarships and Financial Aid
Paying for an advanced college education can be expensive. Still, there are various places you can look for scholarships and financial aid to help you pay for an online master’s degree in biomedical engineering. Professionals in the industry can look for a program from their employers that offers either partial or complete tuition assistance. Additionally, certain companies make arrangements for their employees to pursue an advanced degree while continuing their work part-time. This method allows a steady income stream to pay for academic expenditures while gaining professional work experience.
Those not currently in the field can explore state and federal aid programs. One of the most uncomplicated and common ways to apply for federal aid is by submitting an application form to the official Federal Student Aid website. Various biomedical and bioengineering organizations also offer scholarships. Scholarships are highly beneficial as holders do not need to pay them back. However, most scholarships are competitive and merit-based. They may require letters of recommendation, report cards, and personal statement essays for consideration.
Licensing and Certification For Biomedical Engineers
Aspirants who wish to pursue a lucrative career as biomedical engineers should consider professional licensure to validate their capabilities and solidify their chances of landing a lucrative position. The Biomedical Engineering Society states that biomedical engineering requirements do not include state licensure. Still, some may attain licensure as professional engineers (PEs).
The National Society of Professional Engineers highlights the necessary steps for acquiring professional engineer licensure, which are as follows:
- Attain a four-year engineering degree from an accredited engineering institution and program
- Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) examination
- Acquire four years of hands-on engineering experience under a professional engineer
- Clear the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) examination
The American Society for Healthcare Engineering, a specialized association for professionals who build and sustain healthcare organizations and hospitals, states that biomedical engineers working in healthcare facilities or hospitals have two kinds of available voluntary certification:
- The first certification is Clinical Engineer Certification (CCE), awarded jointly by the Healthcare Technology Certification Commission and the U.S. Board of Examiners for Certification in Clinical Engineering.
- The second is the Biomedical Equipment Technician Certification (CBET), awarded by the International Certification Commission for Clinical Engineering and Biomedical Technology.
What Can You Do With a Master’s in Biomedical Engineering?
Biomedical Engineering Jobs
- Biomedical Engineer
Median Annual Wage – May 2021: $97,410 - Tissue Engineer
Median Annual Wage – May 2022: $70,830 - Biomaterials Engineer
Median Annual Wage – May 2021: $97,410 - Rehabilitation Engineer
Median Annual Wage – May 2022: $69,390 - Independent Consultant
Median Annual Wage – April 2022: $91,930
Biomedical Engineers Salaries
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for biomedical engineers was $97,410 per year, or $46.83 per hour, in 2021. The percentiles for biomedical engineering salary in 2020 were as follows:
- 10th Percentile – $56,590
- 25th Percentile – $71,830
- 50th Percentile (Median) – $92,620
- 75th Percentile – $118,930
- 90th Percentile – $149,440
Biomedical Engineering Job Outlook
The biomedical engineering job outlook showcases an optimistic picture as their demand is bound to increase along with healthcare demands for the aging population. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top 10% of biomedical engineers earn about $154,750 annually. With 19,300 biomedical engineer jobs in 2020, the Bureau expects a 6% employment change between 2020 and 2030, as rapid as the average across all occupations. Due to employment changes, about 1,100 new biomedical engineering career positions may become available between 2020-2030.
Industries With Career Opportunities For Biomedical Engineers
Becoming a biomedical engineer is the most straightforward and common path after attaining a master’s in biomedical engineering. However, the interdisciplinary nature of this field allows graduates to find employment positions in various other areas. For instance, a bio-instrumentation engineer can specialize in image and signal processing in MRI devices, crossing the threshold into computer science and electrical engineering.
Master’s in biomedical engineering salaries are lucrative and competitive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, their job prospects also portray an optimistic outlook with a 5% growth between 2020-2030.
Graduates can also shift to different but adjacent fields, such as materials engineering and agricultural engineering. Let us look at the mean annual salaries for biomedical engineering and other relevant areas:
- Architectural and Engineering Managers – $144,830
- Chemical Engineers – $108,770
- Software Developers – $107,510
- Sales Engineers – $103,900
- Biochemists and Biophysicists – $94,490
- Material Engineers – $93,360
- Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers – $91,410
- Medical Scientists – $88,790
- Agricultural Engineers – $80,720
- Environmental Scientists and Specialists – $71,360
Continuing Education
A master’s degree in biomedical engineering prepares students to undertake advanced studies at the doctoral level in various fields, such as medicine, business, engineering, and science. Some aspirants who wish to pursue a career as a physician-scientist can follow the pre-medical track and continue advanced education in medical school. Others can opt for a doctorate in business to jump to a high-level management position. Some students attain a Ph.D. and undertake specialized roles in advanced research and management or professorship at the post-secondary level.
Some typical continuing education paths for this degree program include doctorate degrees in the following:
- Business Administration
- Biomedical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Healthcare Management
Professional Organizations for Biomedical Engineers
Professional biomedical engineering organizations offer lucrative opportunities to network with like-minded professionals and peers in the field. Such organizations also organize social and professional events that are a great way to form meaningful and mutually beneficial connections that transcend the borders of your programs. Some of these organizations are as follows:
- American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE)
- ASME Bioengineering Division
- Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES)
- Society for Biomaterials
- International Federation for Medical and Biological Engineering (IFMBE)
- IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society
FAQs
Is it worth getting a master’s in biomedical engineering?
Yes, getting a master’s degree in biomedical engineering is worthwhile. Biomedical engineers can find lucrative employment positions in various domains and work for the betterment of the healthcare sector. They help develop healthcare systems and products, including artificial organs, prostheses, and others that make life easier for disabled people.
Why do biomedical engineers do master’s programs?
Earning a master’s in biomedical engineering offers advanced and extensive insight into the domain while delving into various other disciplines. Thus, this multidisciplinary degree prepares biomedical engineers for advanced employment positions with a comprehensive research scope. A master’s in biomedical engineering salary is also higher than an undergraduate degree.
Is there a demand for biomedical engineering in the future?
Yes! Biomedical engineers are and will continue to be in high demand because of the increasing demand in the healthcare sector. The Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates an average of 1,100-1,400 new job openings for biomedical engineers between 2020 and 2030. This increase corresponds to the median job growth rate across all other occupations.
What are the best master’s in biomedical engineering?
The following institutions offer some of the best masters in biomedical engineering online:
What is the biomedical engineering salary range?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, biomedical engineers’ salaries averaged $97,410, or $46.83 per hour, in 2021, with the top 10% earning about $154,750. Biomedical engineers in fields relevant to biomedical engineering can earn between $144,830 to $71,360, depending on the position.
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A biomedical engineering master’s online is highly suitable for individuals passionate about engineering and its due place in healthcare and medicine. Graduates in this field can apply their advanced knowledge to improve various healthcare sectors by developing specialized technology solutions.