Biomedical Engineering

The Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering at the University of New Mexico offers students a comprehensive education that bridges the fields of engineering, biology, and medicine. This program is designed to equip students with a solid foundation in fundamental engineering principles, biological sciences, and medical technology, preparing graduates to innovate and improve healthcare solutions. Through rigorous coursework, students gain essential skills in areas such as biomechanics, biomaterials, medical imaging, biomedical instrumentation, and systems physiology. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory experience, enabling students to develop proficiency in designing, analyzing, and implementing biomedical devices and systems.

Students benefit from access to advanced laboratories and research facilities, fostering hands-on learning and opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research projects. The program also offers specialized tracks and electives that allow students to tailor their education to areas of particular interest within biomedical engineering, such as rehabilitation engineering, tissue engineering, or medical device development. Collaborations with local hospitals, healthcare providers, and industry partners provide valuable internships and co-op opportunities, giving students real-world experience and professional networking opportunities.

The faculty comprises experienced researchers and professionals dedicated to mentoring students and advancing knowledge in biomedical engineering. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to enter the biomedical industry, pursue graduate studies, or engage in biomedical research. They are equipped to contribute to the development of innovative medical technologies, improve patient care, and address complex health challenges through engineering solutions. With a multidisciplinary approach and a focus on real-world application, the Biomedical Engineering program at the University of New Mexico aims to produce competent, innovative, and socially responsible engineers ready to make a positive impact in the healthcare field.

In addition to the general requirements specified in the Graduate Program section of this Catalog, students must also complete the BME core, emphasis core, and elective BME curricula described below. BME 567 Biomedical Engineering Seminar must be taken every semester, up to a maximum of 8 credit hours total. Students must pass the Qualifying Examination before applying for Candidacy or proceeding to the Doctoral Comprehensive Exam. Upon successfully passing the Doctoral Comprehensive Exam and successful review of their application by program faculty and the Dean of Graduate Studies, students are admitted to Candidacy for the doctoral degree. For successful completion of the program requirements, all candidates must pass a Final Examination (Defense of Dissertation).

For all students pursuing degrees in BME, the following BME core courses are offered once per academic year: 

Biomaterials, Biomechanics and Tissue Engineering Emphasis

The following Biomaterials, Biomechanics and Tissue Engineering emphasis core courses are offered every other year: 

Molecular and Cellular Systems Emphasis

The following Molecular and Cellular Systems emphasis core courses are offered every other year:

Equivalent graduate-level courses taken at other institutions may be used to satisfy one or more of the above core requirements, as approved by the student's Graduate Advisor or Curriculum Committee.

Elective Courses

For completion of the Ph.D. degree, the student must complete a minimum of 18 credit hours of elective courses from the list below. At least 9 of these credit hours must be from courses offered in the School of Engineering. Ph.D. candidates may substitute electives other than those listed below, as approved by the student's Graduate Advisor or Curriculum Committee. 

M.S. degree candidates must complete a minimum of 6 credit hours of elective courses from the lists below. M.S. candidates may substitute electives other than those listed below, as approved by the student's Graduate Advisor or Curriculum Committee.

Biomedical Engineering Electives

Engineering Electives

1. Bachelor’s degree from a related science or engineering program in an accredited college or university. The degree must have been granted prior to the date on which you intend to enter the UNM graduate program.
2. An overall grade point average of 3.0 (on a 4 point scale).
3. A total combined GRE score of 1100 on the old scale (250 on the new GRE scale; see http://www.ets.org/s/gre/pdf/concordance_information.pdf for conversion); and
4. Basic courses in physics, math, biology, and chemistry. 

Students who do not meet these criteria may be encouraged to apply to UNM as a Non-Degree Status Student (to take leveling courses, improve their GPA, etc.).

• UNM Application
• A check or money order for the application fee, made out to the University of New Mexico. The application fee may be paid with a major credit card if you are applying online. 
• If the applicant uploads their transcript to the graduate online application only one official transcript needs to be sent to the Biomedical Engineering Graduate Program
• A letter of intent stating your reasons for pursuing a graduate degree, your research interests, your career objectives, general information on your technical and scientific experience, as well as a detailed explanation of special circumstances that might affect your admission. The letter of intent should state whether you desire financial aid in the form of a research or teaching assistantship.
• Three letters of recommendation. Uploaded to the pre-admission form or sent to the Biomedical Engineering Graduate Program using our Letter of Recommendation Form . These letters should be professional (as opposed to personal or character) references, such as from colleagues, supervisors, or former instructors.
• For International students, have TOEFL scores sent to UNM (UNM TOEFL code is 4845) and include a signed Certificate of Financial Responsibility. Please Note: After admission, the I-20 will not be issued until the Office of International Admissions receives your Certificate of Financial Responsibility and a $50 non-refundable Application Fee.

The University of New Mexico offers various financial aid options to support students enrolled in the Biomedical Engineering program. Prospective and current students can apply for federal financial aid programs such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which can provide grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. The university participates in federal loan programs like Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, offering competitive interest rates and flexible repayment plans to eligible students.

Additionally, the university and the Department of Biomedical Engineering administer scholarships specific to engineering students, including merit-based scholarships, departmental awards, and scholarships aimed at underrepresented groups in STEM fields. Students are encouraged to explore scholarship opportunities through the university’s Office of Financial Aid and the College of Engineering, which regularly update available funding sources. Certain scholarships may require maintaining a minimum GPA or involving community service or research activities.

Graduate students in the biomedical engineering program may also access assistantships and fellowships that provide tuition remission and stipends in exchange for research or teaching responsibilities. Such assistantships are highly competitive and awarded based on academic achievement and research potential.

UNM also offers external scholarship opportunities and private sector grants that students can apply for through local and national organizations supporting STEM education. For international students, available financial resources include scholarships, fellowships, and private loans, although eligibility varies and international students are encouraged to consult the university’s international student office for specific guidance.

Students are advised to meet with university financial aid counselors early and to complete all required documentation before deadlines to maximize available resources. The university’s cost of attendance, including estimated tuition, fees, housing, and personal expenses, is publicly available and regularly updated to help students plan financially. Overall, the university aims to provide comprehensive financial support to enable qualified students to pursue their Biomedical Engineering degrees without undue financial burden.

The University of New Mexico offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Biomedical Engineering through its School of Engineering. This interdisciplinary program combines principles from engineering, biology, and medicine to develop solutions for healthcare challenges. The curriculum includes foundational courses in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology, along with specialized classes in biomechanics, biomaterials, medical imaging, medical device design, and systems physiology. Students gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, design projects, and research opportunities, often collaborating with faculty and healthcare professionals. The program prepares graduates for diverse careers in medical device manufacturing, healthcare technology, research, or for further studies in graduate or professional schools. Facilities at UNM support the program with advanced laboratories, simulation centers, and partnerships with local hospitals and medical institutions. Students are encouraged to engage in internships and cooperative education opportunities to gain real-world experience. The program emphasizes innovation, ethical considerations in biomedical engineering, and the importance of communication skills for interdisciplinary teamwork. Faculty members are active researchers, contributing to fields such as tissue engineering, bioinstrumentation, and rehabilitation engineering, providing students with mentorship and involvement in cutting-edge projects. The Biomedical Engineering program at UNM is accredited by ABET, ensuring quality standards and recognition in the engineering community. Overall, the program prepares students for a dynamic and impactful career in improving healthcare and medical technology through rigorous academic coursework, research, and professional development.