Biomedical Engineering

The Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University offers students a comprehensive education at the intersection of engineering, biology, and medicine. This interdisciplinary program prepares graduates to develop innovative solutions for healthcare challenges, spanning areas such as medical devices, imaging systems, biomaterials, regenerative medicine, and health informatics. Students in this program are equipped with a solid foundation in engineering principles, including electrical, mechanical, and chemical engineering, alongside advanced coursework in biological sciences and medicine. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratory work, design projects, and collaborative research, enabling students to gain practical skills in designing and analyzing biomedical systems. Additionally, the program encourages specialization in areas such as medical device development, systems biology, or imaging technologies, allowing students to tailor their education according to their career interests. Carnegie Mellon’s state-of-the-art laboratories and close partnerships with medical institutions provide students with unique opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and internships. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in healthcare technology companies, research institutions, hospitals, and startups, or for graduate studies in biomedical engineering, medical physics, or related fields. The program fosters innovation, critical thinking, and ethical responsibility, empowering students to contribute meaningfully to advances in medicine and healthcare delivery. Overall, the Biomedical Engineering program at Carnegie Mellon University combines rigorous engineering training with biological sciences to produce versatile professionals capable of leading technological advancements in the medical field.

• Engineering Biomaterials
• Tissue Engineering
• Molecular and Micro-Scale Polymeric Biomaterials in Medicine 
• Engineering Molecular Cell Biology
• Bioprocess Design
• Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology
• Biological Transport and Drug Delivery
• Introduction to Neuroscience for Engineers
• Neural Data Analysis
• Neural Signal Processing
• Computational Bio-Modeling and Visualization
• Microfluidics 
• Cellular Biomechanics
• Molecular Biomechanics
• Continuum Biomechanics: Solid and Fluid Mechanics of Physiological Systems
• Cardiovascular Mechanics
• Surgery for Engineers
• Bioinstrumentation 
• Biomaterial Host Interactions in Regenerative Medicine
• Precision Medicine for Biomedical Engineers
• Stem Cell Engineering
• Advanced Physiology
• Bioimage Informatics
• Medical Image Analysis
• Medical Devices
• Special Topics: Applied Nanoscience and Nanotechnology
• Special Topics: Inventive Problem Solving in Biomedical Engineering
• Special Topics: Introduction to Biophotonics

• Bachelor's degree from a recognized 4-year university, in any engineering or engineering-related disciplines including computer science, biological science, physics, chemistry, mathematics, or applied mathematics
• Strong quantitative skills and background in life sciences, as evidenced by coursework or research experience
• Transcripts from all the universities attended (non-official transcripts acceptable for admissions review)
• GRE general test - Quantitative, Verbal, and Analytical Writing (non-official report acceptable for admissions review)
• TOEFL - for all non-native-English-speaking students regardless of previous education in English-speaking institutions, with a minimum of 22 for all the iBT sub-scores (non-official report acceptable for admissions review)
• Three letters of recommendation, submitted online directly by the referees
• Statement of Purpose, as part of the online application
• Non-refundable fee of US $65

GRE and TOEFL Information

• GRE and TOEFL scores must be within the valid period; GRE scores are valid for 5 years, TOEFL scores are valid for 2 years.
• Applicants must self-report and enter the scores in the online application; official reports from Education Testing Service (ETS) are not required until after admission.
• ETS Information
  • GRE CMU Code: 2074
  • GRE BME Department Code: 1603
  • TOEFL Code: 8468-01
  • ETS Telephone Number: 800 529 3590
• GRE may be substituted with MCAT or DAT upon petition.
• TOEFL may be substituted with IELTS. The minimal acceptable IELTS band score is 7.5.

Scholarships

1. Students with a strong academic performance may, upon recommendation of a faculty committee, receive financial aid for summer research with the advisor after the first year. The decision is on a competitive basis and takes into consideration both course grades and research achievement during the first year.
2. Some students may be appointed as a paid Teaching Assistant, which involves a modest amount of work and compensation. Selection is based on the need of teaching assistance, the skills of the student, and his/her course performance. Non native-English speaking students must pass an English proficiency test administered by the University to be eligible.
3. In some cases a student may receive support from the advisor during the second year as a Research Assistant. The Department provides guidelines but in general allows the advisor to make the decision.

The Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University is a comprehensive interdisciplinary program designed to equip students with a strong foundation in both engineering principles and biomedical sciences. The curriculum integrates coursework across various fields, including mechanical, electrical, chemical, and biological engineering, to prepare students for innovative contributions in healthcare technology. Students gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, research projects, and collaborative design initiatives that simulate real-world medical challenges. The program emphasizes the development of skills in problem-solving, technical communication, and teamwork, preparing graduates for careers in medical device development, healthcare systems, and biotechnological research. Coursework typically covers topics such as biomaterials, medical imaging, prosthetics, biomechanics, systems biology, and signal processing. Carnegie Mellon’s strong industry connections and experiential learning opportunities, including internships and co-op programs, enable students to apply their knowledge in clinical and industrial settings. Graduates of the program are well-positioned to pursue advanced degrees or enter the workforce in roles that require expertise at the intersection of engineering and medicine. Overall, the Biomedical Engineering program at Carnegie Mellon fosters innovation, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of biomedical complexities, ensuring that students are prepared to contribute to advancements in healthcare technology and improve patient outcomes.