M.A. in Early Christian Studies
The M.A. in Early Christian Studies at The Catholic University of America is an interdi...
M.S. in Biomedical Engineering
Washington, D.C
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.S. in Biomedical Engineering at The Catholic University of America is a graduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education at the intersection of engineering and medicine. The program's strength lies in its ability to synthesize knowledge from various engineering disciplines (mechanical, electrical, computer science) and apply it to complex problems in biology, neuroscience, and medicine. It prepares graduates for advanced careers in research, industry, and further doctoral studies, focusing on innovative healthcare solutions, novel medical devices, biological implants, and modern biomedical science tools.
STEM Designated: Yes, the M.S. in Biomedical Engineering program at The Catholic University of America is STEM-designated. This classification is advantageous for international students, as it potentially enables them to apply for an extension of their Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the United States, allowing for a longer period of post-graduation work authorization.
ABET Accredited: While The Catholic University of America has an ABET-accredited undergraduate Biomedical Engineering program (accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of ABET since 1991), the M.S. in Biomedical Engineering program itself is not typically listed as ABET accredited. ABET generally focuses on undergraduate program accreditation in engineering and related fields.
Curriculum: The M.S. in Biomedical Engineering is a 30-credit-hour degree program that offers both a thesis and a non-thesis option. The curriculum is interdisciplinary, drawing from mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, biology, chemistry, and mathematics. For the non-thesis option, students typically take 2 core engineering courses, 5 specialized biomedical engineering courses, and 3 additional graduate-level electives. The thesis option requires 2 core engineering courses, 4 specialized biomedical engineering courses, 2 additional electives, and 2 semesters dedicated to thesis research. Students can choose from various subplans or focus areas to tailor their education, including Biomaterials and Biotechnology, Computational Bioscience, Tissue Engineering, and Rehabilitation Engineering, with recommended courses for each. Sample courses include Biomechanics, Cell and Tissue Engineering, Rehabilitation Engineering, Neural Control of Movement, and Mathematical Modeling in Biology.
Research Focus: The Department of Biomedical Engineering at Catholic University has a strong research focus, particularly in areas that apply engineering principles to medical and biological problems. Key research areas include Biomechanics and Mechanobiology, Rehabilitation Engineering (including rehabilitation robotics), Tissue Engineering, Optical Engineering (Biomedical Optics), Neural Engineering (Brain-Computer Interfaces, Neural Networks, Neurorehabilitation), Circulatory Dynamics, Ergonomics, Manufacturing, Human and Neuromotor Control, Nanotechnology, and Imaging. Faculty-led research projects often involve collaborations aimed at developing novel medical devices, biological implants, and other tools for modern medicine and biomedical science. The department houses several research laboratories, such as the RERC, B.O.N.E./C.R.A.B. Lab, Neuromechanics Lab, and Tissue Remodeling and Optics Lab, and is associated with the Center for Applied Biomechanics and Rehabilitation Research (CABRR), which partners with MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital.
Industry Engagement: The M.S. in Biomedical Engineering program at Catholic University fosters significant industry engagement, largely due to its advantageous location in Washington, D.C. This proximity allows students to engage with various healthcare and research institutions, including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), National Institutes of Health (NIH), NASA, and MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital, both during their studies and after graduation. The program's connections facilitate opportunities for internships, research collaborations, and career placement in medical device companies, biotechnology firms, pharmaceutical companies, and other related industries. Faculty often have professional ties, bringing real-world insights and current industry practices into the classroom, preparing students for direct entry into professional roles.
Global Perspective: The M.S. in Biomedical Engineering program inherently incorporates a global perspective by addressing universal challenges in human health and applying engineering solutions that transcend national borders. The problems that biomedical engineers seek to solve, such as developing new medical devices or understanding biological systems, are globally relevant. The program's emphasis on advancing healthcare solutions contributes to a worldwide effort to improve human well-being. While rooted in a U.S. academic context, the scientific rigor and interdisciplinary nature of the curriculum prepare graduates to contribute to research and development that has a global impact. The university's broader commitment to educating "the whole engineer" within a global society also influences the program's outlook.
Location
Washington, D.C
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 34570
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 58 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
The Catholic University of America (CUA) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities to support international students in their pursuit of higher education. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need, making CUA an attractive destination for talented students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: CUA provides merit scholarships to international students based on their academic achievements and overall profile. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are often renewable each year, provided students maintain satisfactory academic performance. Scholarships are awarded automatically during the admission process or through a separate application depending on the program.
Need-Based Financial Aid: While need-based financial aid for international students is limited due to federal regulations, CUA offers institutional grants and assistance based on demonstrated financial need. International students are encouraged to provide comprehensive financial documentation to be considered for these awards.
Program-Specific Scholarships: Certain departments and colleges within CUA offer specialized scholarships for international students pursuing specific fields such as theology, law, engineering, or music. These awards often recognize outstanding talent or the discipline and may include research stipends or assistantships.
Graduate Assistantships and Fellowships: Graduate international students have access to assistantships and fellowships that provide tuition waivers and stipends in exchange for teaching, research, or administrative support. These opportunities not only help finance education but also provide valuable professional experience.
External Scholarships and Resources: CUA encourages international students to seek scholarships from external organizations, foundations, and government programs in their home countries. The university’s financial aid office provides guidance on identifying and applying for such opportunities.
Graduates of The Catholic University of America's M.S. in Biomedical Engineering program are well-equipped with advanced technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills, preparing them for a diverse range of roles in the burgeoning biomedical field. Their interdisciplinary training makes them highly valuable in research, development, and clinical settings.
Biomedical Engineer (R&D): Designing, developing, and testing new medical devices, instruments, artificial organs, prostheses, and health information systems in research and development departments of medical device companies or pharmaceutical firms.
Clinical Engineer: Working in hospitals or healthcare systems to manage and maintain medical equipment, ensure patient safety, and integrate new technologies into clinical practice.
Medical Device Sales/Marketing Specialist: Combining technical understanding with business acumen to market and sell complex medical devices and technologies to healthcare providers.
Regulatory Affairs Specialist: Ensuring that medical devices and pharmaceutical products comply with government regulations (e.g., FDA requirements) for development, testing, and approval.
Biomaterials Engineer: Researching, developing, and testing materials used in medical implants, prosthetics, and drug delivery systems.
Rehabilitation Engineer: Designing and developing assistive technology and devices to improve the quality of life and functional independence for individuals with disabilities.
Quality Assurance/Control Engineer (Medical Devices): Ensuring the quality and safety of medical products throughout the manufacturing process, adhering to industry standards and regulations.
Research Scientist (Academia/Government): Conducting advanced research in areas such as tissue engineering, biomechanics, neural engineering, or medical imaging at universities, national laboratories (e.g., NIH), or specialized research centers.
Bioinstrumentation Engineer: Designing, developing, and maintaining instruments used in biological and medical research, diagnostics, and patient monitoring.
Data Scientist/Analyst (Healthcare/Biomedical): Analyzing large datasets from clinical trials, medical imaging, or wearable devices to extract insights, identify trends, and support data-driven decision-making in healthcare.
