University of Texas at San Antonio

What you'll study

The MS in Biomedical Engineering combines core engineering fundamentals with specialised topics that address problems in medicine and biology. Students typically choose between thesis and non-thesis (coursework) options and customise their study plan around faculty expertise and research interests.

• Core topics: biomedical instrumentation, signals and systems for bioengineering, physiology for engineers, and quantitative methods used in medical technology.
• Specialist areas: biomaterials and tissue engineering, biomechanics and rehabilitation engineering, biomedical imaging and image processing, medical device design and regulatory considerations, and bioinformatics/data analysis applied to biomedical problems.
• Typical modules: advanced biomaterials, tissue mechanics, biomedical optics and imaging, medical sensors and signal processing, computational modelling in biomechanics, and design of medical devices. Elective seminars and journal clubs allow exposure to current literature and translational issues.
• Research and practical experience: thesis-track students conduct supervised research leading to a master's thesis; coursework-track students complete a capstone design project or practicum. Laboratory work, hands-on device prototyping and collaborations with clinical partners are common components.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a relevant undergraduate degree in biomedical engineering, engineering, physics, mathematics, computer science, or a related life-science discipline. Admission is based on overall academic preparation and fit with faculty research interests.

• Academic background: a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with a solid foundation in mathematics, physics and basic engineering or biology.
• Documentation: official transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research or career goals, and letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• Standardised tests and English language: requirements for standardised tests (such as the GRE) and English language proficiency tests (such as TOEFL or IELTS) vary by applicant profile and should be confirmed with the department.
• Research match: applicants whose interests align with active research groups are more competitive, particularly for funded positions or thesis supervision.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme move into a range of careers across industry, healthcare and academia. The degree equips students with skills valued by employers developing medical devices, diagnostics, imaging systems and biologics.

• Industry roles: biomedical engineer, R&D engineer, product development engineer, clinical engineer, regulatory affairs specialist, quality engineer, and applications engineer in medical device and biotech companies.
• Healthcare and clinical settings: roles supporting medical technology implementation, clinical trials, or hospital-based biomedical engineering services.
• Data and software roles: positions in medical imaging analysis, bioinformatics, machine learning for healthcare, and health‑data engineering.
• Further study: graduates wishing to pursue advanced research can progress to PhD programmes or specialised clinical and regulatory training.

Why study at University of Texas at San Antonio

UTSA offers a programme embedded in a growing research ecosystem with access to multidisciplinary engineering and bioscience faculty. The university’s location provides connections to a large clinical community and medical industry in San Antonio, enabling collaboration on translational projects and internship opportunities.

• Research strengths: faculty-led research groups in biomaterials, biomechanics, imaging and biomedical devices provide opportunities for hands-on laboratory experience and thesis work.
• Facilities and collaboration: students benefit from engineering laboratories and maker spaces for prototyping, as well as collaborative ties with local hospitals and research centres for clinical translation.
• Flexible pathways: both thesis and coursework tracks support students aiming for industry careers or advanced research degrees; opportunities exist for part‑time study and professional development.
• Career support: dedicated career services, industry partnerships and networking in a region with an active healthcare sector help graduates find internships and employment.