M.S. in Biomedical Engineering

Program Overview

The M.S. in Biomedical Engineering at UB is a 30-credit hour program, typically completed within 1.5 to 2 years for full-time students. It offers a balance of foundational knowledge and specialized tracks, allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests within the broad field of biomedical engineering. Students can choose between a Thesis Option (emphasizing research) or a Project/Coursework Option (balancing applied research with coursework). The program aims to provide students with the advanced skills necessary to innovate in areas such as medical device development, drug delivery systems, tissue engineering, and bioinstrumentation.

STEM Designated: Yes, the M.S. in Biomedical Engineering program at the University at Buffalo is STEM-designated. This classification is advantageous for international students, as it allows for an Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension of 24 months beyond the initial 12 months, totaling up to 36 months of work authorization in the U.S. after graduation. This designation highlights the program's rigorous scientific and technical curriculum.

Curriculum: The 30-credit curriculum for the M.S. in Biomedical Engineering typically includes a combination of core biomedical engineering courses, specialized electives, and a research component. Core areas often include quantitative physiology, biomaterials, bioinstrumentation, biomechanics, and medical imaging. Students can specialize in tracks such as biomechanics and mechanobiology, biomedical imaging and sensing, molecular and cellular bioengineering, neuroengineering, or tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. The program culminates in either a master's thesis (for the Thesis Option) or a comprehensive project/examination (for the Project/Coursework Option), demonstrating the student's ability to apply engineering principles to biomedical problems.

Research Focus: The M.S. in Biomedical Engineering at UB has a strong translational research focus, aiming to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and clinical application. Research areas within the department are diverse and highly collaborative, often involving partnerships with UB's Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, and other research institutions. Key research thrusts include biomechanics and mechanobiology (e.g., musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, neural systems), biomedical imaging and sensing (e.g., advanced diagnostics, neuroimaging), molecular and cellular bioengineering (e.g., drug delivery, gene therapy), neuroengineering (e.g., brain-computer interfaces, neural prosthetics), and tissue engineering and regenerative medicine (e.g., scaffolds, stem cells). Students are deeply involved in cutting-edge laboratory research under faculty mentorship.

Industry Engagement: The M.S. in Biomedical Engineering program at UB places a significant emphasis on preparing graduates for careers in the medical device, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical industries. The curriculum is designed to impart practical skills and knowledge directly applicable to industry needs, including product development, regulatory affairs, and quality control. The department often has strong ties with local and national companies in the biomedical sector, facilitating internship opportunities and career placement. Many faculty members have industry experience or engage in collaborative research with industry partners, providing students with valuable insights and networking avenues into the biomedical engineering profession.

Global Perspective: The M.S. in Biomedical Engineering at UB inherently fosters a global perspective by addressing universal healthcare challenges and developing solutions with worldwide applicability. The program's research often tackles diseases and medical conditions that impact populations globally, from developing new diagnostic tools to creating advanced therapies. Collaborations with international research institutions and the global nature of the biomedical industry further instill a global outlook. As a major public research university, UB attracts a diverse international student body and faculty, enriching the learning environment with varied cultural viewpoints and different approaches to solving complex biomedical problems from around the world.