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Dr. Robert Kirsch is the Allen H. and Constance T. Ford professor and chair of biomedical engineering at Case Western Reserve University’s Case School of Engineering. He is also principal investigator at the Case-Coulter Translational Research Partnership and Executive Director at the Center for Functional Electrical Stimulation at the Cleveland VA Medical Center.
Dr. Kirsch’s research focuses on the restoration of arm movements to individuals with complete paralysis of arm muscles due to spinal cord injury or other neurological disorders using functional electrical stimulation (FES), as well as high performance user command interfaces such as brain computer interfaces and advanced prosthetic user interfaces. He received his BS in electrical engineering from the University of Cincinnati, and his MS and PhD in biomedical engineering from Northwestern University. Dr. Kirsch completed postdoctoral research at McGill University.
OnlineEngineeringPrograms.com: What is something you wish the public understood about biomedical engineering?
Dr. Kirsch: Biomedical engineers are fully qualified engineers, with the same fundamental training as mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and chemical engineers. They can speak the languages of engineering, biology, and medicine and are thus highly valued by many companies, and there are many interesting career directions available to biomedical engineers, including medical devices, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, consulting, medical regulatory affairs, medical school, and law school (especially for intellectual property).
OnlineEngineeringPrograms.com: What advice would you give to aspiring students in biomedical engineering?
Dr. Kirsch: Make sure to build a strong background in mathematics and science, including biology. Get involved in some relevant hands-on activities that will help motivate the need for the earlier fundamental courses you will need to take.
Explore the various career options available to biomedical engineers. Check out the website of the American Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering. They have a great section called “Navigate the Circuit” that provides a lot of useful information for people considering a career in biomedical engineering.
OnlineEngineeringPrograms.com: What does the future of the field look like to you?
Dr. Kirsch: The future of biomedical engineering is very, very bright. The practice of medicine is becoming increasingly technological, and this is where biomedical engineers shine. Some examples include: medical imaging technologies such as MRI and optical; the development of systems that help restore movement to paralyzed individuals; new biomaterials for repairing damage to the body, delivering drugs in a targeted manner, and engaging the immune system to fight diseases; and the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to diagnose many diseases, especially cancer.
Dr. Reg Rogers is an associate professor in the Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering at the University of Missouri. Prior to his current position, he served as an associate professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT).
Dr. Rogers’ research interests are focused on improved water resources using novel nanomaterials (e.g. carbon nanotubes). His group’s focus is on developing 2D and 3D structures specifically tailored toward removal of targeted contaminants from water systems. In addition, his group also has an interest in developing carbon nanomaterial-based structures for energy storage applications, including advanced sodium-ion systems and supercapacitors.
Dr. Rogers has been recognized for his teaching, research and service efforts through numerous seminars and awards. Notable awards include the 2021 Mentor on the Map Award from the National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers, the 2019 ACS Stanley C. Israel Regional Award for Advancing Diversity in the Chemical Sciences, and the 2018 Dr. Janice A. Lumpkin Educator of the Year Award from the National Society of Black Engineers.
OnlineEngineeringPrograms.com: What is something you wish the public understood about biomedical engineering?
Dr. Rogers: Biomedical engineering is a cross-disciplinary field that looks at the intersection of engineering with medicine. This includes medical device development, translational medicine research, biomaterials, and biomechanics. What is core to knowing biomedical engineering is the breadth of fields it impacts and the opportunities for growth in other engineering fields.
OnlineEngineeringPrograms.com: What advice would you give to aspiring students in biomedical engineering?
Dr. Rogers: The first piece of advice I would give to aspiring students would be to do some research on biomedical engineering and the job opportunities before delving into the field. It is important to know what they desire for a career to ensure biomedical engineering is right for them.
The second piece of advice is to recognize biomedical engineering is an engineering discipline. Therefore, there will be a good dose of math and science that will be required of them as part of their training. It will be important that students are well-versed in calculus, biology, physics, and chemistry before jumping into this field.
OnlineEngineeringPrograms.com: What does the future of the field look like to you?
Dr. Rogers: The future of biomedical engineering is bright! With the advent of artificial intelligence, new opportunities will become more relevant as we look to grow the field. Leveraging technology with science has the potential to increase our understanding of what is possible that we previously did not know to be true. However, we must be careful to grow the biomedical engineering field responsibly so we don’t create situations in which the science and technology becomes uncontrollable. Education of the public at all phases is a must to sustain their trust in what we are doing as scientists and engineers.
While the field of biomedical engineering may seem like it is not conducive to online learning, schools work hard to ensure that online learners get the same education that students on campus do. Some programs even offer a live course option where online students actually “attend” live courses via online streaming video.
In addition to coursework, students can reach professors via email and during office hours. Most programs feature student forums where online learners can interact with their classmates, ask questions, get feedback, and work on group projects. These interactive capabilities make it possible for schools to offer online biomedical engineering degrees without sacrificing educational quality.
Studying biomechanical engineering in an online setting is ideal for those who want to pursue this exciting and in-demand field but do not necessarily have the time or resources to commit to an on-campus program. Online education is a popular choice for working parents who need to spend more time at home and active or reserve military members who cannot live in the same place for an extended period.
| School | City | State | Website | Undergrad | Graduate | Grads |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Los Angeles |
CA | www.usc.edu | 160 | |||
Cleveland |
OH | www.case.edu | 151 | |||
New Brunswick |
NJ | newbrunswick.rutgers.edu | 139 | |||
Champaign |
IL | www.illinois.edu | 115 | |||
New York |
NY | www.columbia.edu | 106 |
Gaining admission to a reputable online biomedical engineering program does require a fairly extensive application process. While any program's specific demands will vary, a few steps are common across most schools.
In most cases, applicants will need to complete and submit an online application, along with an application fee. Applications for these types of programs are generally accepted for set semesters, usually Fall and Spring. Deadlines for admission in fall tend to be at the end of Spring (e.g., June 1), while applications for spring should be completed toward the end of fall (e.g. December 1).
Some schools do allow for Summer semester admission. In addition, some programs utilize rolling admissions, meaning you can apply at any time, and should you be accepted, you will be eligible to start classes whenever the next semester begins.
Biomedical engineering applicants must have demonstrated proficiency in several areas during their undergraduate career, with most programs demanding applicants have a minimum 3.0 GPA before applying. Students must submit official transcripts from their undergraduate programs. Many also have course requirements for calculus and life sciences courses and current GRE scores.
Applicants who earned their undergraduate degree from a school in a country where English is not the official spoken language will likely also have to submit the results of the TOEFL or IELTS exam.
The most prevalent accreditation for engineering programs comes from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), which provides accreditation evaluations for programs focused on applied science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology at the associate, bachelor, and master’s degree levels. ABET is nationally recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
State or federal licensing requirements are uncommon for biomedical engineers, although a Professional Engineer (PE) license is available to those that earn an undergraduate degree from an ABET-accredited institution. In the US, it is rare for biomedical engineers to be required to sit for a licensing exam. However, because licensing is governed on a state-by-state basis, those looking to enter the profession should be sure to confirm their status with their state of residence before employment.
The exact courses will vary for online graduate studies in biomedical engineering, but commonalities exist across different program curriculums. Common core courses for students include:
In terms of specialization, not all programs offer a specialization beyond biomedical engineering itself, but some do. Common specializations may include:
In those programs where specialization is offered, it is an integrated part of the program and does not require additional course hours or semesters to complete.
Several highly regarded universities offer online biomedical engineering programs. While this is not a complete list, these are some of the top options for students interested in pursuing an online graduate degree or postgraduate certificate in biomedical engineering.
The biomedical engineering program at Case Western Reserve University was founded in 1968, making it a true pioneer in the field. Research is a key part of the program's success and the school's close affiliation with facilities such as the Cleveland Clinic, the Case Western Reserve School of Medicine, and the University Hospitals Case Medical Center offer tremendous employment opportunities to graduates of the program.
U.S. News and World Report ranked the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Case Western Reserve University at #21 nationally for biomedical engineering programs. Application requirements include a completed online application, two letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, a current resume, official transcripts, and TOEFL or IELTS scores for international applicants.
Made up of 30 credits, the program includes courses such as biomedical instrumentation and signal processing; cellular & molecular physiology; leadership & interpersonal skills; engineering economics & financial analysis; medical imaging fundamentals; principles of medical device design and innovation; and introduction to business for engineers.
Colorado State University offers an online master’s in biomedical engineering. Specifically tailored for working professionals, this program helps them learn more about material issues in mechanical design, concepts in data and design analysis, and the function and structure of biomaterials.
For admission to this program, students must have a BS in engineering, life sciences, or natural sciences from a regionally accredited institution; a grade point average of 3.0 or higher; and proof of coursework completion (calculus, physics, etc.), among other requirements.
This 30-credit program involves courses such as bioengineering; quantitative systems physiology; biological physics; materials engineering; biomedical signal processing; fundamentals of biochemical engineering; advanced composite materials; cardiovascular biomechanics; and biofluid mechanics.
Graduates of this program can pursue careers in a wide range of industries, such as biological product manufacturing, pharmaceutical preparation manufacturing, analytical lab instrument manufacturing, surgical and medical instrument manufacturing, and irradiation apparatus manufacturing, among others.
Purdue University’s online graduate engineering program consistently ranks among the top three programs by US News and World Report.
Purdue offers an interdisciplinary biomedical engineering program that culminates in an MSE/MS degree. The program allows students to focus largely on biomedical engineering and offers them technical knowledge too. This program is ideal for students who are looking to build a competitive edge in the healthcare and biomedical industry. The faculty for the program includes the same renowned professors who teach on-campus classes.
The major admission requirements for the program include an undergraduate degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program (or one with similar standards), a statement of purpose, official transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a current resume, among others.
In this 30-credit program, students will delve into topics such as biomedical engineering, life science, regulatory engineering, and analysis. Specifically, courses include an introduction to biomaterials; tissue engineering; quality systems for regulatory compliance; an introduction to clinical medicine; biostatistics; and biomedical signal processing.
As part of its Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science, Columbia University offers an online master's degree in biomedical engineering. Distance-based courses at Columbia University are completed through a tried and tested system known as the Columbia Video Network (CVN), with experienced professors.
This fully online program teaches students to harness applied science and engineering to solve problems in medicine and biology. It also provides them with an understanding of living systems and their behavior, as well as biomedical devices and systems.
To get accepted into the program, applicants must have an undergraduate degree in engineering, mathematics, science, computer science, or a related field from an accredited academic institution, a minimum grade point average of 3.0, three letters of recommendation, transcripts, a current resume, a statement outlining their personal and professional goals, and TOEFL/IELTS scores for international applicants. GRE scores are currently optional for admission.
Consisting of 30 credits, the program includes courses such as quantitative physiology; solid biomechanics; physiological control systems; sound and hearing; ultrasound in diagnostic imaging; tissue engineering; and physiological control systems.
Johns Hopkins University offers both a master's degree and a post-master's certificate in applied biomedical engineering. Online, hybrid, and on-site programs are available in five different focus areas. Focus areas include biomechanics, medical devices, imaging, neuroengineering, and translational tissue engineering. These programs allow students to advance their engineering skills and solve complex problems in medicine and biology.
Admission requirements for the master's degree include a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university, a grade point average of at least 3.0, and transcripts, among other requirements. The post-master’s certificate requires students to have a master’s degree in a relevant engineering or science discipline, transcripts from all college studies, and a completed online application. International applicants must submit proof of English language proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS scores.
The master's degree involves ten courses, while the post-master’s certificate involves five courses. Students take courses such as molecular biology; physiology for applied biomedical engineering; an introduction to biomechanics; biological solid and fluid mechanics; biomimetics in biomedical engineering; and orthopedic biomechanics, among others.
Students will get an opportunity to work on solving medical and physiological challenges, use their mathematical methods and physiological knowledge to design laboratory equipment and experiments, and develop a strong background in medical physiology.
The University of Southern California offers a master of science in biomedical engineering program, which can be completed on-campus or online through the DEN@Viterbi platform. Students can complete this program with a thesis option that requires four units of BME 594abz, or without a thesis that requires coursework only. Students in the online portion can choose from concentrations in medical imaging and imaging informatics, and medical device and diagnostic engineering.
Comprising 28 credits, the program includes courses such as advanced topics in biomedical systems; advanced studies of the nervous system; physiological control systems; signal and systems analysis; ultrasonic imaging; linear control systems; and random processes in engineering, among others.
Admission requirements to the program include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in any engineering or engineering-related discipline, electronic transcripts from all colleges and universities attended, a current resume, a personal statement, three letters of recommendation, and TOEFL or IELTS scores for international students whose first language is not English.
University of California-Riverside’s online master of science in engineering program specializing in bioengineering explores high-level topics such as genetics, biological and physiological systems, and computational biology. The program provides students with the technical skills and management expertise that can help them make significant strides in their professional development.
Coursework includes 16 credits of core engineering classes, plus 16 credits within the bioengineering specialization. As part of the program, students will delve into topics such as engineering in the global environment; engineering analysis of physiological systems; cellular and molecular engineering; integration of computational and experimental biology; biotransport phenomena; technology innovation and strategy for engineers; and principles of engineering management.
To get accepted into the program, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or a related field from a regionally accredited institution, official transcripts, reference letters, and TOEFL or IELTS scores for international applicants. GRE waivers are available for applicants with a GPA of 3.2 or higher.
The Fischell Department of Bioengineering at the University of Maryland offers an online professional master of engineering in bioengineering program. Students in this program will learn to integrate principles of biological systems and engineering for developing new devices and technologies that fight disease, aid persons with disabilities, and improve human health.
For admission to the program, applicants must have a bachelor's degree in engineering, biology, chemistry, physics, or another technical field from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Those with an undergraduate degree in a non-engineering field must have completed coursework indicating an aptitude for bioengineering.
This 30-credit program includes courses such as applied mathematics in bioengineering; regulatory affairs in medical product development; biomedical device developments; physiology for bioengineers; application of biomaterials; genome editing and synthetic biology; and applications of tissue engineering. There is no thesis or research required for this degree.
With the University of North Dakota's master of science in biomedical engineering program, students will gain the expertise needed to advance in the biomedical device field. They will learn to create innovative solutions through biomedical product development and research. This program is offered jointly by the University of North Dakota's College of Engineering and Mines and North Dakota State University’s College of Engineering. All students in this program will be associated with at least one of the following biomedical research groups: biomechanics; bio-instrumentation; biomaterials; bio-signals; multi-scale, bio-system simulation and modeling; or other emerging areas as identified.
Applicants to the program must have a bachelor of science degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Students holding a BS degree in other disciplines may be admitted on a conditional basis.
This degree can be completed with either the thesis or the non-thesis option. Consisting of 30 credits, the program includes courses such as digital image processing; advanced biomedical engineering problems; biomedical instrumentation; anatomy and physiology for biomedical engineers; intelligent decision systems; and seminar for biomedical engineers; among others.
An online master of engineering in bioengineering degree program offered by the University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign’s Grainger College of Engineering is designed for students who are looking for a stepping stone to managerial and technical careers in the healthcare industry. This program is an excellent option for those who wish to pursue an advanced graduate degree while working.
Students will be able to augment the depth of their technical background, while also developing fundamental skills in business. The program allows students to choose from two transcribable concentrations: bioinstrumentation and general bioengineering.
As part of the 32-credit curriculum, students will take courses such as biological measurement; managing business operations; innovation and introduction to financial decision-making; and a seminar in bioinstrumentation, among others.
The major admission requirements to the program include a bachelor’s degree in engineering, science, or a related discipline, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and TOEFL or IELTS test results for applicants whose degree is not from an institution where English is the official language.
University of Missouri’s online master of science program in biological engineering is a course-work-intensive degree program that allows students to explore various topics and develop new skill sets in bioengineering. Students can customize their own study plan and develop research skills by completing a substantial independent project. This program can be completed entirely online with no campus visits required.
Made up of 30 credits, the program includes courses such as numerical methods in engineering research; statistical methods in the health sciences; problems in biological engineering; materials characterization techniques; orthopedic failure modes and effect analysis; food process engineering; and orthopedic biomechanics.
To get accepted into the program, applicants must have completed a bachelor’s from a regionally accredited institution in a STEM field with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Additional application requirements include transcripts of all previous college or university education, a statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, a current resume, and TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or C1 Advanced score reports for applicants whose native language is not English.
Villanova University offers an online master of science program in biochemical engineering, providing students with real-world knowledge for a practical application covering topics such as biomaterials, drug delivery, and biopharmaceutical design. The program exposes students to downstream and upstream bioprocess fundamentals and provides them with the tools for designing and optimizing pharmaceutical processes, products, and facilities, using state-of-the-art analysis and technology.
Admission requirements to the program include an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Students who have completed their undergraduate degrees at non-accredited U.S. schools will be required to take the GRE and/or the TOEFL exams.
The 30-credit curriculum of the program includes courses such as biochemical engineering; global pharmaceutical business; biomaterials & drug delivery; protein engineering; transport phenomena; polymer science & engineering; systems biology; and survey of biomass conversion.
Not all online biomedical engineering programs actively and consistently report how many campus visits may be required to complete their programs. However, it is possible to give an overview of some different possibilities.
Because online biomedical engineering programs are largely targeted toward working engineers, they can generally be completed without ever setting foot on campus. This is true of programs as varied as Columbia University, Colorado State University, and Purdue University.
For students who are looking for a more hybrid option, Johns Hopkins University offers many courses that are available both online and on-campus, allowing students to choose whether or not they want that type of personal interaction.
It would be impossible to list all the different considerations that must go into choosing the right online biomedical engineering program, but there are a few things to consider that differ from choosing an offline program. For instance, it is essential that anyone participating in this type of learning be fluent in the technology they will be using. While universities offer some degree of technical support, learning can be interrupted if you do not have the proper hardware and internet connection necessary to watch classes and participate in discussions.
It is also understandable that students may concern themselves with a lack of professor interaction regarding online learning, but all programs offer access to office hours and email communication with professors. Some programs also have online forums where students can discuss assignments with their classmates, which can be effective for learning and networking for future opportunities.
While alumni visibility will not be as high for those students who do not attend class on campus, many universities organize alumni networking events around the country, which will be available to online students. It is important to note that for networking and career assistance, online students may have to work a bit harder to seek out these types of resources, but they will still have that important access if they choose to take advantage of it.
These numbers represent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics from May 2023—the latest figures available as of September 2024.
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Aspiring biomedical engineers can enroll in various graduate programs, including a master of science (MS), a master of science in engineering (MSE), or a master of engineering (ME). While the differences in each program can sometimes be a matter of semantics, there are a few key differentiators.
Learn more about how these leading professors of biomedical engineering are helping to advance the field, whilst ensuring their students join the vanguard and continue to innovate.
