Bioengineering

The Bachelor of Science in Bioengineering at the University of Kansas is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for innovative careers at the intersection of biology, engineering, and technology. This multidisciplinary program combines fundamental principles of biological sciences, engineering, mathematics, and computer science to equip students with the skills needed to address complex biomedical challenges. Students in the program gain hands-on experience through state-of-the-art laboratories, research opportunities, and projects that emphasize real-world applications, from medical device design to tissue engineering and bioprocessing. The curriculum emphasizes the development of technical proficiency, problem-solving abilities, and a strong understanding of biological systems, enabling graduates to thrive in industries such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and research institutions. The program also encourages internships, cooperative education, and collaborative projects with healthcare providers and industry partners, which enhance practical skills and professional readiness. Faculty members are engaged in cutting-edge research, mentoring students in innovative biomedical projects that push the boundaries of current knowledge. The university's facilities, including advanced laboratories and research centers, provide an ideal environment for experiential learning and discovery. Graduates of the Bioengineering program are well-prepared for advanced study in graduate or professional schools or to enter the workforce as valuable contributors to technological advancements in medicine and healthcare. The program emphasizes ethical considerations, regulatory knowledge, and the societal impact of biomedical innovations, ensuring students are responsible practitioners in their field. Whether pursuing an entry-level position or continuing their education, students are supported by comprehensive advising and career services that guide their academic and professional development. Overall, the University of Kansas's Bioengineering program offers a rigorous, innovative, and highly collaborative environment where students can develop the technical expertise and creative problem-solving skills necessary to improve human health through engineering solutions.

The Plan of Study

The student’s Advisor will help the student develop his/her “Plan of Study”, which must be approved by the student’s Advisory Committee. The Plan of Study must consist of the following components: CORE, RESEARCH, DEPTH and BREADTH courses. Details regarding the list of approved courses are available on the Track Advising Sheets.

CORE (6 hours)

CPE 756 Introduction to Bioengineering (3).
BIOE 800 Bioengineering Colloquium (0.5 hrs/semester, 4 semesters required).
BIOE 801 Responsible Conduct in Engineering Research (1).

RESEARCH (6 hrs)

The student’s research will lead to the Master’s thesis, which demonstrates that its author has completed an original and independent investigation of a significant problem. The thesis provides evidence that the student can recognize an important problem, acquire the data to answer the questions posted within that problem, and extend the results of the answered questions to other problems of significance. Defense of the thesis is scheduled when the Advisory Committee listed on the Plan of Study agrees that the research is complete.

DEPTH and BREADTH Courses (18 hrs min)

Students must complete at least 18 approved hours in their selected track and 6 hours of thesis. A minimum of 30 total hours is needed to fulfill degree requirements. The detailed list of approved courses within each track is available from the bioengineering program director.

Admissions to the KU BioE Graduate Program is granted to students who have a superior record of achievement in their previous studies and demonstrate a strong potential for success in advanced level studies. Applicants normally have a Bachelors of Science degree or a Masters of Science degree in an engineering discipline, physical sciences (e.g. Chemistry, Physics, etc.), the life sciences (e.g. Biology, Biochemistry, etc.), or a closely related field. Successful applicants will have strong academic credentials, some formal research experience, and demonstrated potential for advanced study by performance at the baccalaureate level. Highly qualified undergraduate students may apply for admission directly into our Ph.D. program after completing their B.S. degree.

School of Engineering Scholarships and Fellowships for First Year Graduate Students

Scholarships and fellowships are awards based either on academic merit alone, or on academic merit and financial need. Awards are applied directly to a student's tuition and fees. Typically, funds left over after disbursements are made are returned to the student in the form of a check (or direct deposit into a bank account). 

School of Engineering scholarships and fellowships for incoming graduate students are awarded on a competitive basis. Award considerations include the applicant's academic performance (GPA), personal statement, scores on achievement tests, letters of recommendation, evidence of involvement in and commitment to the engineering profession, and an individual's record of scholarly activities. There is no separate application process for these awards. Students are automatically considered when a complete application is submitted. Each department nominates qualified graduate students. Awards are generally allocated in March.

Incoming and current students may also qualify for the following KU and external scholarships and fellowships.

• Engineering Graduate Ambassador Fellowship, deadline: end of March each year
• Madison and Lila Self Doctoral Fellowship, deadline: students are nominated for this fellowship, departmental deadline is normally late January or early February
• Graduate Studies Fellowships and Scholarships, deadline: varies, check the link provided for details
• Graduate Engineering Association (GEA) Student Travel Funding

Funding from Engineering Departments

Individual programs or departments may offer funding opportunities for graduate students. Links to information about program/departmental funding are below.

• Aerospace Engineering
• Bioengineering
• Chemical and Petroleum Engineering
• Civil, Environmental, and Architectural Engineering
• Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
  • Cyber security
• Mechanical Engineering

The University of Kansas offers a comprehensive Bioengineering program designed to prepare students for careers at the intersection of biology, medicine, and engineering. This multidisciplinary field combines principles of engineering, biology, and medicine to develop innovative solutions for healthcare, medical devices, and biological research. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratory experiences, research projects, and internships, allowing students to acquire practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. Students are introduced to core topics such as biomechanics, biomaterials, biomedical instrumentation, systems physiology, tissue engineering, and medical imaging. The curriculum is developed in collaboration with industry experts and research institutions to ensure relevance and to foster emerging areas of bioengineering innovation. Undergraduate students can pursue a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree, which provides a strong foundation in engineering principles complemented by coursework in biological sciences and mathematics. The program also encourages undergraduate research, offering opportunities for students to participate in faculty-led projects that address real-world biomedical challenges. The university maintains strong ties with medical centers and biotech companies, facilitating internships and cooperative education programs that enhance employability after graduation. Graduates of the Bioengineering program are well-equipped to pursue advanced degrees, such as master's or doctoral programs, or to enter the workforce in roles including biomedical device design, clinical engineering, research and development, and biotech entrepreneurship. The program's faculty comprises experienced researchers and industry professionals dedicated to mentoring students and advancing innovation in health technologies. Facilities include state-of-the-art laboratories equipped for tissue engineering, imaging, biomaterials testing, and other cutting-edge research activities. Overall, the University of Kansas’s Bioengineering program aims to develop versatile engineers who can contribute to the advancement of healthcare through technological innovation and scientific discovery.