Biomedical Engineering

Areas of specialization include: biochemical engineering, bioanalytic chemistry, biofluid mechanics, biomedical materials, biomedical modeling, biosensors, biotechnology, cell and tissue engineering, computational systems biology and synthetic biology, DNA-based therapeutics, data acquisition and processing, drug delivery, electrophysiology, ultrasound imaging and instrumentation, orthopaedic biomechanics, molecular surface engineering, neuronal circuits of the brain, physiologic transport and flow, protein engineering, radionuclide imaging, women's reproductive health, soft tissue mechanics, genomics, and optical coherence tomography. The department comprises approximately 56,000 sq. ft. of office and laboratory space. Excellent computer facilities and services are available, along with unrestricted access to the Duke University library system, including the Medical Center Library, the Bostock Library, and the Math-Physics Library. The department has its own machine shop. Study is enhanced by strong, active collaboration with the Duke University Medical Center and the Microelectronics Center of North Carolina. Opportunities are available for students to collaborate with medical industry.

• 30 course credits
  • Life science course - 3 credits
  • Advanced mathematics course - 3 credits
  • BME courses - 12 credits
  • Additional 12 credits through either: 
    • Thesis option - 6 elective course credits and 6 thesis credits (ungraded research) or
    • Non-thesis project option - 12 elective course credits
• Customized study plan developed in collaboration with adviser
• One semester of BME seminar (Fall only)
• Thesis, project, or assessment of qualifications
  • Thesis defense 
    • Preliminary review of thesis 
    • Evaluation at thesis defense
  • Non-thesis project option 
    • Preliminary review of project
    • Project assessment

• An official transcript that states you hold a BS degree or equivalent in engineering or science.
• GRE (Graduate Record Examination) test scores
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score (if applicable), IETLS (International English Language Testing System) score*, or a waiver**
• Three letters of recommendation
• Written statement of purpose that describes your specific academic and career interests

*IELTS is less commonly submitted by applicants. The Master of Engineering and Master of Engineering Management Programs do not accept the IETLS.