M.S. Biomedical Engineering

The Thesis Track is the traditional path toward a Masters in Biomedical Engineering.  Typically, thesis students work on individual research or a well-defined aspect of a larger research effort under the direct mentorship of one of our tenured or tenure-track faculty; therefore, to ensure matriculation into the Thesis Track, applicants are encouraged to identify and explore research project opportunities with our tenured or tenure-track Faculty, see the Faculty webpages for research descriptions and contact information. Faculty from other departments working on biomedically relevant research projects may also support BMED MS candidates (contact BMED Program Coordinator for more information). MS candidates who matriculate into the Thesis Track become part of a research group focused on a particular faculty’s research area. Both current Cal Poly students and external applicants are encouraged to contact and/or meet with potential advisors to explore research opportunities before applying to the MS program.

The Project Track in Biomedical Engineering for a Masters in Biomedical Engineering was launched in Fall 2018. MS Projects are staffed by 2 MS students.  This track is designed to provide MS students a team research experience on an industry relevant project. Projects can be sponsored by either industry or tenure/tenure-track faculty. Industry-sponsored projects receive technical mentoring by an industry representative with a faculty member’s assistance.  All industry sponsored projects launch in the Fall semester of the academic year with a duration of approximately one calendar year. Students are expected to complete research project work over summer in order to graduate during the summer session at the earliest.  For industry sponsored projects, students are required to take specialized courses, BMED 5591, BMED 5592, and BMED 5598 where MS students are matched with a project, begin interaction with an industry customer, and develop a customer based project plan. Faculty sponsored projects follow a similar format as Industry sponsored projects.  Applicants pursuing this track should identify their interests either on the application cover sheet or in the personal statement.  For more information contact the Biomedical Engineering Graduate Coordinator. This track does not require identification of a Faculty advisor prior to the application process. For more information on how to apply: Current Cal Poly Students or External Applicant.

The specialization in Regenerative Medicine is a unique program in which students work at the interface between Biomedical Engineering and Stem-Cell Biology and is associated with the California Initiative for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM). Applicants who are selected and matriculated into this program receive one year of coursework and a project experience to prepare and maximize student education and value in a subsequent paid 9 month internship at a partner Institution that is an active participant in the Regenerative Medicine consortium. This program prepares students for careers in regenerative medicine and related fields. Specifically, our graduates are prepared for immediate employment in regenerative medicine, biotechnology, or medical technology companies, as well as research specialists/laboratory managers at universities or research institutes. Program graduates are also well-prepared to matriculate into bioengineering doctoral programs or graduate programs in the health professions. 

For more information visit the Regenerative Medicine Program Website.