Biomedical Engineering

The Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers students a comprehensive foundation in the principles and applications of engineering as they relate to the medical and biological sciences. This interdisciplinary program combines coursework in electrical, mechanical, chemical, and materials engineering with core biomedical sciences such as anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry, preparing graduates to innovate in healthcare technology, medical devices, and research. Students gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, design projects, and collaborative research opportunities, enabling them to develop practical skills in diagnostics, imaging, prosthetics, and biomaterials. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical considerations in biomedical innovation, aligning theoretical knowledge with real-world clinical challenges. With access to state-of-the-art laboratories and partnerships with local hospitals and industry leaders, students are well-positioned to pursue careers in healthcare device development, medical research, and clinical engineering. The program also prepares students for advanced education and professional certification in biomedical fields. Graduates of UNC's Biomedical Engineering program join a vibrant community dedicated to advancing human health through engineering solutions, supported by expert faculty and diverse research initiatives. Whether aiming to develop cutting-edge medical technologies or pursue further studies, students receive a rigorous and applied education that fosters innovation, leadership, and a commitment to improving quality of life worldwide.

Doctoral students qualify for the Ph.D. degree by meeting grade requirements in their core courses and then advancing to written and oral preliminary exams before admission to candidacy. Details can be found on the department's Web site. Degree candidates in this program are expected to obtain experience working in a research laboratory during their residence and to demonstrate proficiency in research. The Ph.D. dissertation should be judged by the graduate committee to be of publishable quality.

Courses

• BMME 405. Biomechanics I.
• BMME 410. Systems and Signals. 
• BMME 420. Introduction to Synthetic Biology. 
• BMME 425. Biomedical Applications of Electromagnetics. 
• BMME 435. Biological Physics. 
• BMME 445. Systems Neuroscience.
• BMME 455. Biofluid Mechanics. 
• BMME 460. Analytical Microscopy.
• BMME 465. Biomedical Instrumentation I.
• BMME 470. Tissue Engineering.
• BMME 475. Transport Processes.
• BMME 485. Biotechnology.
• BMME 490. Special Topics in Biomedical Engineering. 
• BMME 495. Undergraduate Research in Biomedical Engineering as a Technical Elective.
• BMME 505. Biomechanics II.
• BMME 510. Biomaterials. 
• BMME 515. Introduction to Systems Biology.
• BMME 520. Fundamentals of Materials Engineering.
• BMME 530. Digital Signal Processing I. 
• BMME 550. Medical Imaging I: Ultrasonic, Optical, and Magnetic Resonance Systems. 
• BMME 551. Medical Device Design I.
• BMME 552. Medical Device Design II.
• BMME 560. Medical Imaging II: X-Ray, CT, and Nuclear Medicine Systems.
• BMME 565. Biomedical Instrumentation I.
• BMME 576. Mathematics for Image Computing. 
• BMME 580. Microcontroller Applications I.
• BMME 581. Microcontroller Applications II. 
• BMME 681. Human Factors Engineering and Quality Management Systems for Engineers.
• BMME 691H. Honors Thesis.
• BMME 692H. Honors Thesis. 
• BMME 697. Senior Design Project I. 
• BMME 698. Senior Design Project II.
• BMME 740. Advanced Biomaterials. 
• BMME 770. Physiology and Methods in Genomics.
• BMME 775. Image Processing and Analysis. 
• BMME 790. Graduate Systems Physiology. 
• BMME 795. Information Processing in the Central Nervous System.
• BMME 810. Digital Nuclear Imaging. 
• BMME 840. Rehabilitation Engineering Design.
• BMME 890. Special Topics. 
• BMME 900. Research in Biomedical Engineering and Biomathematics. 
• BMME 994. Doctoral Research and Dissertation.

• Application fee (non-refundable $85)
• Transcripts (complete, not selected courses)
  • One unofficial transcript from each university attended must be uploaded within the application. All unofficial transcripts must be uploaded to your application in order for your application to be reviewed. Please do not mail transcripts as part of your admission application; we only accept unofficial uploads for application evaluation. If you are offered admission, one official transcript for each university attended will be required prior to the first day of the term.
• Current letters of recommendation
  • The email address of three recommenders will be required within the application for electronic submission.
• Standardized test scores
  • (GRE, GMAT, etc.; no more than 5 years old.)
• Statement of purpose
• Resume/CV
• TOEFL or IELTS score (no more than two years old)
• Completed financial certificate

In addition to the University’s required application materials, applicants should review the information below for additional expectations or application requirements.

Application Deadline: BBSP begins application review in November therefore we strongly encourage applicants to complete & submit the application before our December 1st deadline.

Plans for Graduate Study Page:
Area(s) of Interest: Please select at least five research topics of interest to you (via the Areas of Interest/Specialization drop-down box within your application).  Please rank your interests listing your top interest first. Note these are NOT the BBSP programs, but research areas of BBSP faculty.  

Statement of Purpose Page:
Please address the questions below in your personal statement.  Upload one document with two or three separate sections (depending on whether you answer the optional question), with each section clearly labeled.

1. REQUIRED Describe your previous research experience(s).  Make sure to elaborate on your motivation to pursue your research project(s), what your role was in the project(s), as well as any results/presentations/papers resulting from the project(s). If you have co-authored a peer-reviewed publication, please give the complete reference.
2. REQUIRED Tell us about your motivation for seeking a PhD in the biomedical sciences, your research interests and what type of research you hope to pursue in graduate school.  Also please tell us what you would like to do after graduate school and how you perceive a PhD will be a step in your desired career path.
3. OPTIONAL Is there anything else not addressed in the questions above that you would like the committee to take into account as they consider your application?

Faculty of Interest:
REQUIRED FOR BBSP APPLICANTS: Please list in the online application at least one and up to five faculty from the following list  using the format described below:

• List the faculty in order of interest.
• Please make sure to include the first AND last name of each faculty and double check that you have the correct spelling.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers various financial aid options to support students enrolled in their Biomedical Engineering program. Undergraduate students can access Federal Pell Grants, which are need-based grants that do not require repayment, aimed at assisting students with demonstrated financial need. Additionally, students may qualify for Federal Work-Study programs, providing part-time employment opportunities on or off-campus to help offset educational expenses. The university also offers numerous scholarships based on academic merit, leadership qualities, and financial need, which are often awarded at the time of admission or renewal annually.

Graduate students in Biomedical Engineering can seek funding through Research Assistantships and Teaching Assistantships, which typically provide a stipend and cover tuition costs. These assistantships are awarded based on academic performance and research potential and often involve working directly on faculty research projects, offering students valuable practical experience. The university's Office of Scholarships and Student Aid provides further guidance and resources for applying for federal and private loans. Many students also explore private loans and external scholarships specific to engineering or biomedical fields to supplement their financing.

UNC Chapel Hill encourages students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal aid programs. Financial planning seminars and counseling are also available to help students manage their educational expenses efficiently. The university's commitment to affordability is evident through various incentive programs and financial aid packages designed to reduce the burden of educational costs and make biomedical engineering studies accessible to a diverse student body. Overall, UNC Chapel Hill’s comprehensive financial studies support aims to ensure that qualified students can pursue their degrees without undue financial hardship, promoting a diverse and talented community of future biomedical engineers.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers a comprehensive Biomedical Engineering program designed to prepare students for careers in healthcare technology, medical device development, and research. This program integrates principles from engineering, biology, medicine, and physical sciences to foster innovation and problem-solving skills applicable to healthcare challenges. The curriculum includes foundational courses such as calculus, physics, biology, and chemistry, alongside specialized topics like biomaterials, biomechanics, medical imaging, systems physiology, and biomedical instrumentation. Students have the opportunity to participate in research projects, internships, and collaborative initiatives with hospitals and industry partners, gaining practical experience and fostering professional development. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratories, design projects, and capstone courses, enabling students to develop prototypes, analyze biomedical signals, and evaluate medical devices. Faculty members are experts in various fields of biomedical engineering, encouraging an interdisciplinary approach and mentorship. The program often offers specialization tracks or concentrations, such as biomechanics, bioinstrumentation, or biomaterials, allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers in medical device companies, research institutions, healthcare organizations, or advanced studies in graduate and professional schools. The university also promotes a collaborative environment with active student organizations, seminars, and workshops that enhance learning and professional networking. Overall, UNC Chapel Hill's Biomedical Engineering program balances rigorous academics with experiential learning, aiming to produce innovative engineers capable of advancing medical science and improving patient care.