University of California

What you'll study

The programme combines core engineering fundamentals with specialised biomedical subjects. Typical core modules cover biomechanics, biomaterials, biological systems and quantitative methods for biological data. Advanced options allow students to focus on areas such as medical imaging and image analysis, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, biosensors and microfluidics, bioinstrumentation, computational biology and systems physiology.

Most degree structures offer a choice between a research (thesis) track and a professional (project or coursework) track. A research track includes supervised laboratory research culminating in a master's thesis and regular seminars. The professional track emphasises technical coursework and a capstone design or industry-linked project. Coursework often includes hands-on laboratory modules, programming for biomedical applications, regulatory and translational topics, and ethics in biomedical engineering.

Typical learning activities include lectures, laboratory practicals, design projects, journal clubs and collaborative interdisciplinary projects with departments such as medicine, biology, materials science and computer science.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, computer science, chemistry, biology or a closely related discipline. Admissions committees look for demonstrated quantitative ability and relevant coursework (for example calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, physics and basic biology or chemistry for biologically oriented applicants).

Common application materials include official transcripts, a personal statement outlining academic and professional goals, academic or professional references, and a curriculum vitae. Some campuses or departments request examples of prior laboratory or project work. Standardised tests such as the GRE may be optional or recommended depending on the campus; international applicants typically need to demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests unless exempt.

Admissions decisions also consider research experience, industry internships, publications or relevant work experience, particularly for applicants seeking the research/thesis route.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across medtech, biotechnology and healthcare. Common career paths include medical device development, product design and testing, biomaterials and tissue engineering, medical imaging and image analysis, bioinformatics and computational biology, clinical engineering and hospital technology management, regulatory affairs and quality assurance, and technical consulting.

Many graduates move into research and development roles in industry or government labs; others pursue clinician-engineer collaborations in hospital settings or continue to doctoral study (PhD) to prepare for academic or advanced research careers. The degree also supports entrepreneurship and start-up activity in areas such as diagnostics, wearable health technologies and digital health platforms.

Why study at University of California

The University of California system offers strong interdisciplinary research environments that connect engineering with medicine, biology and materials science. Across campuses there are well-equipped laboratories, core facilities for imaging and microfabrication, and frequent collaboration with affiliated medical centres and clinical partners.

Students benefit from proximity to vibrant biotechnology and medical device ecosystems, opportunities for industry internships and partnerships, and networks that support technology translation and entrepreneurship. Faculty typically have active research programmes spanning basic science to translational projects, providing pathways for students interested in both academic research and industry careers.