Upon completing an online master’s in biomedical engineering, students will have a further understanding of the biomedical industry and the potential career applications of what they have learned. With the degree, students can enter or attain an advanced position in various careers, including nanotechnology, military medicine, tissue engineering, pharmaceuticals, and much more. And completing the degree doesn’t take long: this graduate degree typically takes between 28 to 33 credit hours, allowing full-time students to complete their studies in two years or less.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, graduate degrees such as this typically cost an average of $19,749. Once you graduate, you will qualify for jobs in the bioengineering and biomedical engineering field, where you can expect an average salary of $97,000.
How to Choose an Online Master’s in Biomedical Engineering Program
Choose your area of study
Depending on the online master’s in biomedical engineering program students are admitted to, they may have several areas of study to choose from, including Biosystem Science and Engineering, Biomedical Instrumentation, Medical Imaging Informatics, Neuroengineering, Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering, Biomedical Signal/Image Processing, Biomaterials, Tissue Engineering, and Biomechanics.
It can be helpful to consider which area most appeals to you before applying to a program. Because this is such a cutting-edge field, the area of study may dictate which jobs graduates are qualified to perform after they graduate.
Research schools and programs
Students need to narrow down the list of schools offering an online master’s in biomedical engineering so they can apply to the best ones.
One way of doing this is to verify that the university is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, as this helps determine the degree’s legitimacy. Students should also check if the program accommodates flexible scheduling, which is important for many remote learners. Students should also strongly consider the program’s overall cost, as choosing a more affordable school can mean the difference between graduating with heavy student debt or little to no student debt.
Prepare for tests and applications
When narrowing down schools that offer an online master’s in biomedical engineering program, review specific application requirements. Some programs may require students to submit GRE scores, and since the GRE can take up to three months to study for and it takes up to 15 days to receive results, students will need to factor in how long everything can take against application deadlines. In some cases, no GRE is required, but the school may require students to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.5. Additionally, some applications may require students to submit letters of recommendation.
Select your program
With the list of schools narrowed down, prospective students must determine the exact program(s) they will apply to.
To select the best one, consider affordability and schedule flexibility. Additionally, look into other factors such as the school’s placement rate, reputation, and which professors students will work with. The latter is potentially significant because the professors’ reputations and networks can help students eventually find senior-level jobs in the biomedical industry after graduation. Students anticipating additional academic support may also wish to focus on schools offering robust online support services for remote learners.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
To help pay for an online master’s in biomedical engineering program, students should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, which helps qualify students for federal loans that can pay for (or at least mitigate) the cost of their graduate education. In some cases, filling out this form can also help students to qualify for special grants or scholarships. While those aren’t as common for graduate students as they are for undergraduate students, it never hurts to contact specific schools and ask if these or other forms of aid are available. Inquiring may help students discover financial assistance available from the school and the state that they would otherwise have no way of knowing about.
Best 50 Accredited Online Master’s in Biomedical Engineering Programs
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How We Rank Schools
Students can earn degrees in biomedical science at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. This list focuses explicitly on master’s degrees. Types of degrees in biomedical engineering include Master of Engineering (ME), Master of Science (MS), and Master of Liberal Arts (MLA).
To ensure flexibility for working students, we only reviewed programs that can be completed online. Many programs on this list are also offered in an on-campus format or can be completed with a blend of online and in-person classes.
We only reviewed programs offered at regionally accredited institutions to ensure they meet high quality standards in higher education. ABET, a specialty organization that accredits engineering and technology programs, has accredited several programs.
Our team reviewed programs based on their course offerings, cost, reputation, faculty, and flexibility. Then, we assigned each program an Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out our ranking methodology.
What Can You Expect from an Online Master’s in Biomedical Engineering Program?
An online master’s in biomedical engineering helps students build upon their existing undergraduate studies in science while preparing them to compete in a growing and intersectional industry.
For example, students will learn about design and data analysis, the structure and function of biomaterials, and relevant material issues in mechanical design. All of this helps prepare students for a field where they may tackle very different tasks ranging from fighting pernicious diseases to helping those suffering from a disability. Remember, choosing a specialty can help better prepare students for a highly-specific post-graduate career.
Most online degrees take full-time students two years to complete, though it’s possible to complete accelerated programs in as little as a year. For most online programs, students shouldn’t have to complete any residencies or in-person labs, which can help them finish everything sooner than with similar fields.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online master’s in biomedical engineering program
- Biochemical Sensors. This very focused course helps students learn more about the different principles behind using chemicals to sense physiological signals. Students will learn about electrochemistry and biophysical chemistry and the design, construction, and use of these very specialized sensors. As technology progresses rapidly, the course also covers emerging technologies and their potential future applications.
- Physiology for Applied Biomedical Engineering. This course is the first part of a two-part sequence typically spread across two semesters. As the first course in the series, this class focuses primarily on the physiological principles that students must master to thrive in a biomedical engineering career and, before that, succeed in the rest of their graduate coursework.
- Molecular Biology. This course offers a deep dive into molecular biology and provides a solid introduction to the subject in question. Students will learn more about chemistry and biochemistry and how these fundamental concepts serve as the building blocks for cutting-edge tech, including recombinant DNA technology.
- Frontiers in Neuroengineering. While the brain has remained a mystery for far too long, modern neuro-engineering tools are helping us to learn about the mind in ways our ancestors could only dream of. This class helps students learn more about current neurological theories and how those theories are being put to the test using the latest technology.
What Can You Do With an Online Master’s in Biomedical Engineering?
Career outlook
An online master’s degree in biomedical engineering opens doors to a dynamic and rewarding field at the intersection of engineering, biology, and healthcare. Graduates with this degree are equipped with the knowledge and skills to revolutionize medical technology, improve patient care, and contribute to advancements in healthcare. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for individuals with this education will be increasing at a rate of roughly five percent over the next decade. Biomedical engineers can expect to earn a median pay of $99,550 a year.
Career paths
The versatility of a master’s in biomedical engineering allows graduates to adapt to various industries, including medical device manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and research institutions. The demand for professionals who can bridge the gap between engineering and healthcare is on the rise. Their education equips them with the expertise to design and improve medical devices, develop innovative therapies, and conduct groundbreaking research. Here are some common career paths for individuals with a master’s in biomedical engineering:
- Regulatory affairs specialist — ensures that medical products comply with regulatory requirements and standards
- Biomechanical engineer — studies the mechanics of the human body to develop solutions that enhance physical function and movement
- Clinical engineer — maintains, repairs, and manages medical equipment in healthcare facilities
- Biomedical entrepreneur — identifies opportunities to develop and market innovative biomedical products or services
- Biomedical consultant — advises healthcare organizations on the selection and implementation of medical technologies and equipment
Biomedical Engineer
Earning Potential: $64,820-$147,890 annually
Education Required: Master’s degree in biomedical engineering or related field
Biomedical engineers apply principles of engineering and biology to develop and maintain medical equipment and systems. They collaborate with healthcare professionals to create innovative solutions for diagnosing, treating, and preventing medical conditions. Biomedical engineers may work on projects ranging from artificial organs and prosthetic limbs to medical imaging devices and drug delivery systems. Their work involves research, testing, and ensuring that medical technologies meet safety and regulatory standards. They play a crucial role in improving patient care, advancing medical knowledge, and contributing to the development of cutting-edge healthcare solutions that enhance both diagnosis and treatment.
Medical Device Developer
Earning Potential: $62,540-$170,190 annually
Education Required: Master’s degree in biomedical engineering or related field
Medical device developers are responsible for designing and enhancing medical instruments and equipment used in healthcare. They work closely with healthcare professionals, engineers, and regulatory experts to create safe, effective, and innovative medical devices. This involves conducting research, prototyping, and testing to ensure devices meet rigorous quality and safety standards. Medical device developers also navigate the complex regulatory landscape to gain approvals and certifications for their products. They play a pivotal role in advancing medical technology, improving patient care, and addressing specific medical needs, from diagnostic devices to surgical instruments.
Biomedical Research Scientist
Earning Potential: $49,000-$173,400 annually
Education Required: Master’s degree in biomedical engineering or related field; Ph.D. for advanced positions
Biomedical research scientists conduct experiments, studies, and investigations to advance our understanding of medical and biological processes. They explore a wide range of topics, from disease mechanisms and drug development to genetics and medical innovations. These scientists design and execute experiments, collect and analyze data, and interpret their findings for stakeholders. Their work may lead to the discovery of new treatments and medical technologies. They publish their research in scientific journals and contribute to the development of evidence-based medical practices. Biomedical research scientists play a vital role in pushing the boundaries of medical knowledge and improving healthcare outcomes for individuals and communities.
Online Master’s in Biomedical Engineering Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online master’s in biomedical engineering degree program?
Any online master’s in biomedical engineering programs students are interested in can be applied to by filling out the online application on the university website. Such applications will specify any additional paperwork students may need to submit, including GRE scores or letters of recommendation from previous professors.
If applying to several programs, it is best for students to carefully review the specific requirements of each application, as they may differ. Students with lingering questions should contact the admissions counselor for each school: the counselors can verify what needs to be submitted and answer any remaining questions students may have about either the program or the school.
How much does an online master’s in biomedical engineering degree cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, graduate degrees such as the online master’s in biomedical engineering typically cost an average of $19,749.
Your costs may be higher or lower due to various factors, including whether you go to a public school (which will be cheaper) or a private school (which will be more expensive). Another factor influencing the cost is how many credit hours the program is and how long it takes to finish. Fortunately, in not having to pay on-campus costs such as parking fees and not having to relocate to a pricy university town, your online degree will invariably be cheaper than its on-campus counterpart.
How long does it take to earn an online master’s in biomedical engineering degree?
Most online master’s in biomedical engineering degrees are designed to be completed in two years by full-time students, which is the same amount of time it will take to complete such a degree on-campus. Students attending an accelerated program can complete this degree in at least one year. Students who are unable to attend school full-time should make sure the programs they apply to offer the flexibility needed for them to complete everything on their schedule without disrupting the work/life balance they have worked so hard to cultivate.
Is an online master’s degree in biomedical engineering worth it?
Earning an online master’s degree in biomedical engineering can be worthwhile for individuals seeking a rewarding career at the intersection of engineering and healthcare. This degree equips graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to make a significant impact on the development of medical devices, therapies, and research.
Graduates with this degree are likely to find a broad range of career options open to them, including positions that allow for career growth and advancement. Salaries vary based on location, experience, and specialization, but this degree often leads to well-compensated positions. For example, the median pay for a biomedical research scientist is $93,722.
Online programs offer flexibility, allowing students to balance their studies with professional and personal commitments. This makes them particularly appealing to adult learners who may be juggling multiple priorities. Online programs may also include financial savings, as students won’t be paying for on-campus housing or transportation costs.