Florida International University

What you'll study

The programme builds core engineering fundamentals applied to biological systems and clinical problems. Students typically take core courses in mathematical methods for bioengineering, biomedical signal and image processing, biomechanics, and biomaterials. Coursework can be combined with laboratory rotations, project-based modules and a research thesis or a professional project option.

• Core topics: biomedical signal and image processing, biomechanics, biomaterials and tissue engineering, physiology for engineers, and design of medical devices.
• Common electives: biomedical optics and imaging, computational biology and modelling, micro/nanoscale devices, biosensors and instrumentation, regulatory science and medical device design, rehabilitation engineering and assistive technologies.
• Research and project work: students may undertake a laboratory-based thesis under a faculty advisor in areas such as biomaterials, imaging, medical devices or computational bioengineering; a non-thesis professional project option is also available for students seeking industry-focused experience.
• Structure: the programme typically combines 30–36 graduate credit hours of coursework and either a thesis, practicum or capstone project depending on the chosen track. Students can personalise study through elective choices and by collaborating with research centres and clinical partners.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree in engineering, bioengineering, biomedical sciences, physics, mathematics or a closely related field from an accredited institution. A strong foundation in calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, and basic programming is expected. Relevant laboratory or design experience is advantageous.

• Academic records: official transcripts demonstrating satisfactory undergraduate preparation; admissions is competitive and evaluated holistically.
• Supporting documents: statement of purpose describing research or professional goals, curriculum vitae or resume, and letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• English language: international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through accepted examinations unless exempted by university policy.
• Additional considerations: some applicants may be invited to interview or to provide a portfolio of research, design projects or publications. Specific prerequisite courses may be required if an applicant’s undergraduate degree did not include core engineering coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of careers across industry, clinical settings and research. Typical roles include biomedical/clinical engineer, medical device designer, imaging systems engineer, product development specialist, quality and regulatory engineer, and research scientist. Alumni also pursue doctoral studies or clinical engineering residencies.

Employers are found in the medical device and biotechnology industries, hospitals and health systems, contract research organisations, government laboratories and startups. The programme’s emphasis on translational projects and industry-relevant design prepares students for roles that interface with clinicians, regulatory bodies and manufacturing.

Why study at Florida International University

Florida International University’s Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering and Computer Science offers an environment with strong interdisciplinary collaboration across engineering, medicine and biomedical research. FIU’s location in Miami provides access to a large clinical community and industry partners, enabling applied projects and clinical collaborations.

• Research links: students can work with faculty engaged in biomaterials, imaging, sensors and device translation, and have opportunities to collaborate with nearby medical centres and research institutes.
• Facilities and labs: the college maintains teaching and research laboratories equipped for biomaterials testing, imaging and device prototyping, plus machine shops and rapid-prototyping resources for device development.
• Entrepreneurial and professional support: FIU provides access to technology transfer resources, incubators and career services that help students move ideas toward commercialisation or find industry placements.
• Diverse community: the university’s international student population and strong ties to regional healthcare and industry create a multicultural learning environment with ample networking opportunities.