25 Best Biomedical Engineering Schools 2020
This list presents the 25 best biomedical engineering schools based on alumni earnings in the year after graduation. University of Pennsylvania, Duke University, and Pennsylvania State University make up the top three schools on the list, with median alumni salaries of $74,300, $71,700, and $70,100, respectively. While the median salary for graduates in their first year of employment shows little variation between the top three institutions, graduates from Duke University had significantly less debt.
Tuition, median salaries, and median debt were reported by the U.S. Department of Education in November 2019. View our methodology for more details about these rankings or read more about the top-ranked schools.
2020 Best Colleges Highlights
Learn more about the top colleges for a Bachelor's in Biomedical Engineering degree. You can also read student reviews of each school by clicking on the stars. Although student reviews were not used as a ranking factor in this list, we provide ratings and reviews so students can consider the experience of alumni in their decision-making process.
The University of Pennsylvania’s School of Engineering and Applied Science offers a Bachelor of Science in Bioengineering (BSE). The BSE requires students to complete 40.5 course units, with each class worth anywhere from a half-unit to two units. Sixteen units are dedicated to engineering courses. Engineering courses include titles such as Cell Engineering, Biomechanics, and Intro to Computing. While not necessary, students may choose a concentration for a more focused sub-topic. There are eight concentrations, including options like biomedical imaging, biomedical devices, and neuro-engineering. The department also offers a Bachelor of Applied Science in Biomedical Science (BAS) for students seeking more flexibility in their degree. BAS students tend to pursue careers in medicine, business, or law. BSE majors are prepared for careers in professional engineering.
BSE students are encouraged to engage in either independent research or collaborative research with a faculty advisor. Students also benefit from career services resources to find internships and positions post-graduation.
Biomedical engineering majors who graduate from Duke University’s Pratt School of Engineering are prepared to enter medical schools, careers as professional engineers or consultants, and positions in academia. A Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering (BME) includes instruction in mathematics, science, engineering, biology, and physiology. Duke University strives to offer experiential programs with an emphasis on hands-on design, data science, computing, research, and entrepreneurship. Motivated individuals may complete a 4+1 sequence in which they complete their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in five years.
Undergraduates in the BME program may select a dual-major option or pursue a more focused, elective sequence. Elective courses cover topics including biomedical imaging, biomechanics, electrobiology, and biomolecular and tissue engineering. Undergraduates are strongly encouraged to engage in research, such as the Pratt Research Fellows program or the Bass Connections program, where students work on interdisciplinary teams with graduate students and faculty. Others may pursue independent study options, where the students work under the supervision of a faculty member. Internships are another popular option for students seeking hands-on professional opportunities.
Pennsylvania State University’s College of Engineering hosts a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering at its University Park campus. The curriculum is designed to integrate engineering principles with life sciences and health care. Students strive to develop innovative technology that mimics biology, like creating new prosthetics and artificial organs. Graduates with a BS in biomedical engineering can work as a bridge between engineers and medical researchers. Many graduates continue to advanced education, with many pursuing medical and dental school. Others are employed in research and development positions, as well as other careers in industry and government.
Students must complete 45 general education credits and 112-113 major credits, for a total of 130-131 credits. Students may choose one of four concentration options: biomechanics, biomaterials, medical imaging & devices, and biochemical studies. Students will take classes across several disciplines, including mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering. They must also complete some core courses required by Penn State.
Johns Hopkins University (JHU) is a private research university located in Baltimore, Maryland. It is an institution regarded highly for its early integration of medical teaching and research. Students in the Whiting School of Engineering may choose to pursue a Bachelor of Biomedical Engineering (BME) on the Homewood campus. The BME degree will cover a multidisciplinary curriculum with classes in molecular & cellular biology, biological control systems, modeling & simulation, thermodynamics, and engineering analysis. The complete degree is 129 credits with concentrations in biomedical data science, computational medicine, genomics & systems biology, imaging & medical devices, immuno-engineering, neuro-engineering, and translational cell & tissue engineering.
Undergraduates will have the opportunity to work side-by-side with faculty doing hands-on research projects. Students will complete classwork in design, computer programming, and select electives from any area of interest. Highly motivated individuals may opt for a 3+1 sequence, in which the BME and master’s degree are completed in four years total, with an optional fifth year for a research thesis.
Students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering (BME) at Texas A&M University receive an individualized approach to the degree, specific to their future career goals. Graduates tend to pursue advanced education, medical school, or careers in medical research and healthcare. Students in the program will benefit from hands-on career counseling and support, as well as internship opportunities. Undergraduates are encouraged to network with the extensive Texas A&M alumni community to learn about the career paths of successful professionals. Students will graduate with clearly-defined marketable skills to enter the workforce.
BME students are also encouraged to engage in research opportunities on campus. Faculty are involved in dozens of biomedical engineering research projects, covering a wide range of topics including biomaterials, tissue engineering, medical devices, biomedical imaging, vascular disease modeling, and many more. Seniors are expected to complete a capstone experience. Seniors collaborate with real sponsors to design and create a medical device. Many of these projects become successful real-world devices that improve access to medical care.