All graduates gain depth of knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of biomedical engineering, via the core curriculum:

• CHE 751 Biomechanical Engineering
• CHE 753 Tissue Engineering
• CHE 757 Medical Devices and Biomaterials
• CHE 759 Medical Imaging
• College Level Physiology

A strong foundation in engineering mathematics is provided by selection of two advanced math courses.

World-class experts in the field teach electives in biomedical engineering. To complement the wide variety of research areas, a sample of available electives include:
• 3D Kinematics
• Tissue Mechanics
• Artificial Organs
• Pathophysiology of Diabetes
• BioMEMS
• Experimental Methods in Biomedical Engineering
• Biopolymers
• Advanced Tissue Engineering
• Vascular Bioengineering

In addition, advanced courses in mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics and traditional engineering disciplines are offered.

Students who are interested in engineering solutions to the disease diabetes may choose to participate in the DIABET (Diabetes Initiative for Applied Biomedical Engineering Technologies) track within the ABE program (described on back).

Duration of Study:

A minimum of 61 credits is required for the DRE degree, including 31 credits of coursework and 30 credits of research/dissertation. The DRE degree typically takes four years of full time effort to complete.

Examinations:

There are three examinations in the DRE program: qualifying, candidacy and dissertation defense.

The qualifying exam will evaluate a prospective student’s mastery of fundamental subject matter specific to the chosen engineering discipline/concentration beyond what is demonstrated by prior grades. The examination is administered in May of the first year of Doctoral studies and must be successfully completed before a student exceeds 20 credit hours beyond the master’s degree.

The purpose of the candidacy examination is to assess maturity and preparation to perform independent research in a specific topic. The exam will be taken in a period not to exceed two years after successful completion of the qualifying exam.

The dissertation is a concentrated, in-depth, independent study of an appropriate engineering problem. The dissertation defense involves a public seminar, followed by an in-depth oral examination by the student's advisory committee.

Other Requirements:

All students are expected to attend departmental seminars. Beginning in the second year of study, students are expected to present research progress in a seminar semi-annually.

Core Competency:

Students are expected to have a strong foundation in an engineering discipline, or in sciences, or in medicine through their BS and MS degrees before entering ABE.

A working knowledge of college level Physiology is required for all students. If taken at the graduate level, Physiology may count as an elective.

Core Courses

For up to date information on courses please visit the Applied Biomedical Engineering course listing under graduate catalog.

Required Engineering Mathematics

ABE Electives 

All 700-level graduate engineering courses can be used as an elective (a maximum of one course at 500-level is permitted). A list of approved courses from departments outside the engineering college will be available to help in the preparation of the program of study. 

Although students are encouraged to take courses in their research area or for their personal interest, courses not appearing in the study plan cannot be used as electives to satisfy the minimum degree requirements. At least one elective course in biomedical engineering is offered each semester. 

Courses include: 

Biofluid Mechanics

Experimental Methods for Biomedical Engineering

3D Kinematics

Tissue Mechanics

Artificial Organ/Pancreas Design

Cardiovascular Bioengineering

Pathophysiology of Diabetes

Tissue Viscoelasticity

Obesity and Related Disorders

Micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS)