CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
16 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€52k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Flexible curriculum with diverse specializationsSpecializations
- Options for Applied Study (internship/practicum) or Research focusProgram Tracks
- Opportunity to collaborate with nearly 50 faculty membersFaculty Expertise
- Dual degree option with Engineering & Technology Innovation ManagementDual Degree
- Specialized program in AI for Biomedical EngineeringAI Focus
Carnegie Mellon University's Master of Science (M.S.) in Biomedical Engineering (BME) program offers advanced, course-based academic training designed to build both depth and breadth of knowledge. The program is ideal for students with backgrounds in traditional engineering or basic sciences who aim to build a career in biomedical engineering, as well as for those considering medical or graduate school who wish to enhance their credentials. The BME M.S. program provides significant flexibility, allowing students to tailor their coursework to specific interests and career aspirations. While students can focus on particular areas, the curriculum ensures a well-rounded understanding of the field, requiring engagement with at least three core areas: physiology and cellular/molecular biology, biomaterials and tissue engineering, biomechanics, biomedical imaging and bioinformatics, and neuroengineering. All students also participate in a Biomedical Engineering Seminar series each semester to learn from established professionals. The program offers specialized tracks, including an Applied Study option that incorporates a real-world practical experience like an internship, practicum, or research project, and a Research option focused on independent research culminating in a thesis or publication. Additionally, CMU offers specialized M.S. programs in Artificial Intelligence Engineering – Biomedical Engineering (MSAIE-BME) and a dual M.S. program in Biomedical Engineering and Engineering & Technology Innovation Management (E&TIM).
Curriculum
The M.S. in Biomedical Engineering program offers a broad range of courses with considerable flexibility to adapt to diverse interests, educational backgrounds, and career plans. Students must fulfill core area requirements and a seminar series. Specialized tracks include Applied Study and Research.
- Year 1 (or first 16 months for Applied Study)
- Biomedical Engineering Seminar42-701 or 42-801
- Core Area Course (e.g., Physiology, Biomaterials, Biomechanics, Imaging, Neuroengineering)
- Electives tailored to specialization
- Practicum/Internship/Research (for Applied Study track)42-792 (Internship), 42-790 (Practicum), 42-890 (Research)
- Year 2 (or final months for Research track)
- Biomedical Engineering Seminar42-701 or 42-801
- Completion of coursework and electives
- Research and Thesis/Publication (for Research track)42-890
Careers
The M.S. in Biomedical Engineering program prepares graduates for diverse career paths in industry, research, and further academic study. Graduates are equipped with advanced knowledge and practical skills applicable to a wide range of roles in the healthcare technology sector and beyond.
- Biomedical Engineer
- Research Scientist
- Product Development Engineer
- Medical Device Specialist
- Data Scientist (Biomedical Focus)
- Process Engineer
- Clinical Engineer
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic and English language requirements for the Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering program?
- Applicants need an undergraduate degree in Biomedical Engineering, traditional engineering, or a basic science discipline, with coursework in life sciences, statistics, and programming strongly encouraged. For English proficiency, an official TOEFL iBT score of 100 is required; waivers are not granted.
- How much does the Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering program cost per academic year?
- Tuition is USD 60,900 per academic year. Estimated living expenses are USD 31,726 per academic year, which includes housing, food, books, personal expenses, and travel. Health insurance costs are to be determined, and additional fees apply.
- What is the duration of the Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering program?
- The program typically takes one year to complete. For students pursuing the Applied Study track which includes an internship or practicum, the duration may extend to 16 months.
- What are the career prospects for graduates of the Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Biomedical Engineer, Research Scientist, Product Development Engineer, and Data Scientist with a biomedical focus. Common employment sectors include industry R&D, biotechnology companies, medical device manufacturers, and research institutions.
- How do I apply to the Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering program?
- Applications are submitted through the Carnegie Mellon University School of Computer Science online application portal, with admissions exclusively for the Fall semester. Required documents include transcripts, a resume, a statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation. The application opens on September 9th for Fall admission of the following year.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeUndergraduate degree in Biomedical Engineering, traditional engineering, or a basic science discipline. Relevant coursework in at least one life science, statistics, and programming is strongly encouraged.
TOEFL iBT100
TOEFL waivers are not issued, even for students with previous study in English-speaking environments or at U.S. institutions. Applicants must submit official score reports.
Fees
Tuition (international)USD 60,900 per academic year
Tuition (home)USD 60,900 per academic year
LivingEstimated USD 31,726 per academic year (includes Housing, Food, Books/Supplies, Personal/Misc., Travel, Transportation, Technology Fees)
Tuition is charged per academic year. Living expenses are estimates and can vary. Health insurance costs are TBD. Additional fees like Student Activities Fee apply.
How to apply
1. Complete the Online ApplicationAccess the School of Computer Science (SCS) online graduate application.
2. Submit Required DocumentsUpload transcripts, resume, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.
3. Provide English Proficiency ScoresSubmit TOEFL iBT scores if English is not your native language. Waivers are not granted.
4. Pay Application FeeEnsure all components are submitted by the application deadline.
Scholarships
Conference Funding—
Professional Engagement Funding—
Scholarly Project Funding$750
Rales Fellowship Program—
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic and English language requirements for the Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering program?
+
Applicants need an undergraduate degree in Biomedical Engineering, traditional engineering, or a basic science discipline, with coursework in life sciences, statistics, and programming strongly encouraged. For English proficiency, an official TOEFL iBT score of 100 is required; waivers are not granted.
How much does the Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering program cost per academic year?
+
Tuition is USD 60,900 per academic year. Estimated living expenses are USD 31,726 per academic year, which includes housing, food, books, personal expenses, and travel. Health insurance costs are to be determined, and additional fees apply.
What is the duration of the Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering program?
+
The program typically takes one year to complete. For students pursuing the Applied Study track which includes an internship or practicum, the duration may extend to 16 months.
What are the career prospects for graduates of the Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Biomedical Engineer, Research Scientist, Product Development Engineer, and Data Scientist with a biomedical focus. Common employment sectors include industry R&D, biotechnology companies, medical device manufacturers, and research institutions.
How do I apply to the Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering program?
+
Applications are submitted through the Carnegie Mellon University School of Computer Science online application portal, with admissions exclusively for the Fall semester. Required documents include transcripts, a resume, a statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation. The application opens on September 9th for Fall admission of the following year.