University of Chicago

What you'll study

The programme builds a strong core in mathematics, physics, chemistry and biology, then applies those fundamentals to engineering approaches for biological and medical systems. Early years typically cover calculus, linear algebra, mechanics, electricity and magnetism, general chemistry and cell/molecular biology. Core biomedical engineering topics include biomechanics, biomaterials, biomedical instrumentation, physiological systems, biofluids, biomedical signal processing and imaging, and quantitative systems biology.

Students take laboratory courses and programming classes to develop experimental and computational skills, and engage in hands‑on design through project courses and a senior capstone or thesis. Electives allow specialisation in areas such as medical devices, tissue engineering, synthetic biology, computational modelling, or translational medicine. Undergraduate research opportunities with faculty in engineering, biological sciences and medicine are strongly encouraged.

Entry requirements

Successful applicants demonstrate strong preparation in mathematics and the sciences. Typical school coursework includes advanced mathematics (preferably through calculus), physics and chemistry; background in biology is highly recommended. Admissions look for evidence of academic excellence, quantitative ability, and motivation for interdisciplinary work—often shown through laboratory experience, independent projects, competitions or summer programmes. International qualifications are accepted when equivalent to the university's standard secondary credentials. Applicants should consult the university’s admissions pages for detailed documentation and testing policies.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of pathways including medical device and diagnostics companies, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry, clinical engineering, and research roles in academic or government laboratories. Many continue to graduate study (PhD in engineering, bioengineering or related sciences) or professional degrees such as medicine. Other common careers include product development, regulatory affairs, quality engineering, data science in healthcare, consulting for life‑science firms, and entrepreneurship in medtech — with institutional support available for commercialising technologies.

Why study at University of Chicago

The University of Chicago emphasises rigorous quantitative training and interdisciplinary collaboration, connecting engineering approaches with fundamental biological and clinical research. Students benefit from access to research groups and centres spanning molecular engineering, biological sciences and clinical medicine, enabling translational projects and mentorship. The university’s entrepreneurial ecosystem supports students who want to move technologies toward commercialisation, and small cohort sizes promote close faculty advising and substantial hands‑on project experience. Located in a major urban research hub, students also have opportunities to collaborate with medical centres and industry partners in the Chicago region.