Biomedical Engineering weaves a strong life science foundation with multidisciplinary engineering fundamentals for investigating and understanding living systems using quantitative assessment tools, engineering living systems, and developing novel biomedical sensors and devices. Biomedical Engineering is listed by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as one of the fastest growing occupations in the U.S. for the decade ending in 2018. This positive trend is a direct result of the ever-increasing demand for advanced and sophisticated medical technologies as well as for cost-effective healthcare service for our society. Biomedical engineers conduct research, design, develop and evaluate systems and deliver products that address health-related problems. They apply science and technology in support of improved healthcare. Many biomedical engineers, particularly those employed in research laboratories, need a graduate degree.
The objective of the graduate Biomedical Engineering Program at FIU is threefold: (1) to provide highly trained professionals in Biomedical Engineering to serve in academic institutions, government agencies, research laboratories, and manufacturing and service industries, (2) to provide minority students a great opportunity for advanced graduate studies; (3) to supply additional minority graduates to the Biomedical Engineering field, where minorities are highly underrepresented. The Doctor of Philosophy Program in Biomedical Engineering is geared towards the development of highly trained professional at the Ph.D. level to serve in academic institutions, government agencies, research laboratories, as well as manufacturing and service industries. Clinical and industrial practice is integrated into the doctoral academic program through the Biomedical Engineering Partnership Program. Students gain valuable exposure to clinical practice and research, and acquire real experience in product development and commercialization.
Areas of Specialization
The PhD program in Biomedical Engineering prepares graduates for academic, clinical or industrial research and development in one, or more, of three cluster areas of specialization:
- Basic Research in Engineered Tissue Model Systems
- Diagnostic Bioimaging and Sensor Systems
- Therapeutic and Reparative Neurotechnology
These three areas are served by technological advancements in:
- Bio-imaging, bio-signal processing and computational modeling
- Bio-instrumentation, devices and sensors
- Biomaterials and bio-nano technology
- Cellular and tissue engineering
Biomedical Engineering Admission Requirements
Prospective students must satisfy all university admission requirements as well as the specific program requirements. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission into the program.
Scholarships, Fellowships & Assistantships
FIU and the College of Engineering and Computing offer a variety of fellowships, assistantships, and scholarships to qualified domestic and international students. The amounts of these awards vary depending on the type of award, but they may provide full tuition and a monthly stipend.
Degree Requirements
The PhD program requires a total of 90 credit hours beyond a BS degree. These credits are comprised of a minimum of 48 hours of coursework and a minimum of 24 hours of dissertation. Applicants with a Master’s Degree in Biomedical Engineering, or closely related field, from an accredited institution may be given a maximum of 30 transferred semester hours.
