Biomedical Engineering

The Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in Biomedical Engineering at The Pennsylvania State University is a comprehensive, multidisciplinary program designed to prepare students for innovative careers at the intersection of engineering, medicine, and biological sciences. This program combines rigorous coursework in engineering principles with in-depth studies of biological systems, enabling graduates to develop advanced medical devices, diagnostic tools, and healthcare technologies that improve patient care and quality of life. Students gain a strong foundation in core engineering topics such as mechanics, electronics, and materials science, integrated with specialized courses in biomedical signals, systems, biomechanics, biomaterials, and medical imaging. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills through laboratory work, design projects, and internships with industry partners. Students are encouraged to engage in research initiatives and collaborate across disciplines to address complex challenges in healthcare and biomedical engineering. The program also incorporates training in ethics, regulatory affairs, and user-centered design to prepare students for responsible innovation within the healthcare industry. The university's state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced labs and simulation centers, provide an ideal environment for hands-on learning. Graduates of the Biomedical Engineering program are well-equipped to pursue advanced studies or careers in medical device development, rehabilitation engineering, healthcare consulting, or biomedical research. They are prepared to contribute to advancements in medical technology, work in interdisciplinary teams, and meet the growing demand for skilled biomedical engineers in the healthcare sector. With a strong emphasis on innovation, teamwork, and societal impact, the program aims to cultivate engineers who will lead the future of medical science and healthcare technology.

A minimum of 32 credits at the 400-level or higher is required for a M.S. in Biomedical Engineering (BME M.S.), with at least 24 credits at the BIOE 500 or 800 level. Students must take the following: 9 credits of foundation courses at the BIOE 500-level, an additional 12 credits of fundamentals and/or applications courses (with a minimum of 3 credits from each category), 1-credit BIOE 591 research ethics course, two 1-credit BIOE 590 graduate seminars, 2 credits of BME 429, and 6 credits of BME 594 mentored research.

1. Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or
2. Tertiary (postsecondary) degree that is deemed comparable to a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution.
3. Applicants will be required to arrange for official transcripts/documents (for institutions outside the U.S. documents may include marksheets, record of courses, degree/study certificate, original diploma, etc) to be sent from all post-secondary institutions attended and official English translation if the language of instruction is not English).
4. All international applicants must take and submit scores for the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or the IELTS (International English Language Testing System). The minimum acceptable score for the TOEFL is 550 for the paper-based test, or a total score of 80 with a 19 on the speaking section for the internet-based test (iBT). Applicants with iBT speaking scores between 15 and 18 may be considered for provisional admission, which requires completion of specified remedial English courses ESL 114G (American Oral English for Academic Purposes) and/or ESL 116G (ESL/Composition for Academic Disciplines) and attainment of a grade of B or higher. The minimum acceptable composite score for the IELTS is 6.5. 

Scholarships

Assistantships

The most common form of graduate support, teaching and research assistantships, include a stipend, tuition remission, and a subsidy for medical insurance. Recipients are assigned to a faculty adviser who supervises the experience. Graduate assistants support undergraduate instruction or undertake research projects. A specified time commitment of 10-30 hours per week is required depending on the unit (a half-time/20 hour per week commitment is typical). Appointments are available only to graduate students who are registered for courses and enrolled in degree programs.

Fellowships

Fellowships are highly prestigious financial support packages that typically include a stipend, tuition remission, and a subsidy for medical insurance. They derive from University or outside awards. Unlike assistantships, they do not have a required work commitment; they are duty-free. Recipients must be enrolled in degree programs and be registered full time. Fellowship recipients are not permitted to accept employment without obtaining approval from the unit and/or agency supporting the fellowship.

Traineeships

Training grants are derived from agencies outside the University and are intended to support specific student learning experiences in core curricular areas and research methods. Institutional awards, typically under the direction of a faculty principal investigator, afford funding to support selected students with stipends, tuition grants-in-aid, and often include a subsidy for medical insurance.

The Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering at The Pennsylvania State University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for careers at the intersection of engineering, biology, and medicine. This program emphasizes the application of engineering principles to solve complex medical and healthcare problems, fostering innovation and advancements in medical technology, healthcare devices, and systems. The curriculum covers fundamental engineering disciplines such as electrical, mechanical, and materials engineering, alongside specialized coursework in biology, physiology, and biomedical sciences. Students are provided with hands-on laboratory experience and opportunities for research, enabling them to develop practical skills and a strong understanding of biomedical systems. The program also incorporates training in design, ethics, and regulatory considerations essential for developing safe and effective medical devices.

The program aims to produce graduates who are proficient in analyzing, designing, and improving healthcare technology, with the ability to work collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams. Students may have access to state-of-the-art facilities, research centers, and industry partnerships that enhance learning and prepare them for advanced study or employment in medical device companies, hospitals, research institutions, and government agencies. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect the latest advances in biomedical engineering and healthcare technology, ensuring students are well-equipped to meet industry standards and challenges.

Graduates of the program often pursue careers in areas such as medical device development, clinical engineering, biomaterials, tissue engineering, and healthcare informatics. Many students also choose to continue their education through graduate studies in biomedical engineering or related fields. The program supports student development through mentoring, internships, and cooperative education opportunities, providing valuable real-world experience. Overall, the Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering at Penn State prepares students to become innovative leaders in improving health outcomes and advancing medical technology through rigorous education, practical experience, and research opportunities.