Why This Matters
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DEMAND FOR BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERS WILL GROW BY 5%
The rising need for innovative medical solutions means the field of biomedical engineering is growing faster than the average for all other occupations.
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THE AVERAGE SALARY FOR BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERS IS $91,410
Biomedical engineers make more than two times the average salary for all other occupations.
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74,800 NEW ENGINEERS ARE NEEDED OVER THE NEXT DECADE
As an aging population seeks biomedical solutions for health problems, and technology creates new advancements in the field, more engineers are needed to design and develop biomedical products and services.
Our Research
Our research covers Master’s programs in biomedical engineering. The programs on this list teach the engineering principles needed to create new medical equipment and develop medical software. Students are able to choose from in-person, online, and hybrid learning formats. Degrees offered include Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering, Master of Engineering in Biomedical Engineering, and Master of Pharmaceutical Engineering.
Accreditation is awarded to biomedical engineering programs that have high academic standards and offer up-to-date and relevant curricula. Courses are accredited by the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET). Schools and programs on this list hold regional or national accreditation to ensure high quality. Graduates with accredited courses have a leg up in securing jobs in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). It’s also easier to transfer credits from accredited programs to other schools.
We evaluated each program on the basis of flexibility, faculty, course strength, cost, and reputation. Then we calculated the Intelligent Score for each program on a scale from 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.
- 61 hours to write this article
- 203 universities and colleges we assessed
- 261 education programs we compared
The Top 50 Master’s in Biomedical Engineering Degree Programs

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What You Should Know About This Degree
When considering a career in biomedical engineering, it’s also worth considering studying for a master’s degree in bioengineering. Programs in bioengineering focus on engineering practices in general biology, whereas biomedical engineering programs specialize in using engineering practices to improve or advance human healthcare. Bioengineers can work across a wide range of industries, including agriculture, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals. Both degrees require coursework in computer programming, advanced mathematics, fluid and solid mechanics, and circuit design. When choosing a graduate program, determine if you want to focus on healthcare technology or if you’d like more generalized study.
Biomedical engineers often pursue additional certifications to demonstrate their expertise in the field. They might earn certifications in computer programs such as Zemax and Light Tool.
The job outlook for biomedical engineers is promising, and 1,000 new positions are expected to be created over the next decade. The demand for new biomedical devices and procedures continues to grow as society becomes increasingly dependent on engineers to design, develop, and test these solutions. Graduates can choose from multiple career paths, such as research science, epidemiology, and biomechanics.
What’s Next?
When considering a master’s in biomedical engineering, ask yourself these questions:
- Am I eligible for this program? Students who wish to pursue a master’s in biomedical engineering must hold a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Some programs might also admit students with an undergraduate degree in biology or chemistry. All prospective students should have a strong background in life sciences and engineering.
- How long does it take to complete this online degree? Most biomedical engineering degrees can be completed with two years of full-time study. The programs on our list require a minimum of 10 credits and a maximum of 54 credits to graduate.
Each program has specific application requirements and deadlines. Be sure to review this information and submit all materials on time. Application requirements are usually posted on schools’ websites.
Biomedical engineering can be a rewarding profession, but completing a master’s degree requires an investment. Research scholarships, grants, and other financial aid, and be sure to submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if you’re eligible for government aid.