Biomedical Engineering
Develop a breadth and depth of engineering skills and knowledge to address problems in medicine and biology.
Biomedical Engineering with a Year Abroad
Develop a breadth and depth of engineering skills and knowledge to address problems in medicine and biology.
Biomedical Engineering with a Year in Industry
Develop a breadth and depth of engineering skills and knowledge to address problems in medicine and biology.
Learn how to use technology to help people live longer, healthier and happier lives
Explore a range of disciplines – from mechanics and nanotechnology to physiology, programming and design
Enrich your studies with the opportunity to take a year abroad or put your knowledge into practice during a year in industry
Course key facts
-
Qualification
-
MEng
-
-
Duration
4 Years
-
Start date
October 2025
-
UCAS course code
BH9C
-
Study mode
Full-time
-
Fees
£9,535 per year Home
£43,300 per year Overseas
-
Delivered by
-
Location
-
South Kensington
-
-
Applications: places
4 : 1 (2023)
Minimum entry standard
-
A*AA (A-level)
-
39 points (International Baccalaureate)
-
Qualification
-
MEng
-
-
Duration
4 Years
-
Start date
October 2025
-
UCAS course code
Apply to BH9C
-
Study mode
Full-time
-
Fees
£9,535 per year Home
£43,300 per year Overseas
-
Delivered by
-
Location
-
South Kensington
-
-
Applications: places
4 : 1 (2023)
Minimum entry standard
-
A*AA (A-level)
-
39 points (International Baccalaureate)
-
Qualification
-
MEng
-
-
Duration
5 Years
-
Start date
October 2025
-
UCAS course code
Apply to BH9C
-
Study mode
Full-time
-
Fees
£9,535 per year Home
£43,300 per year Overseas
-
Delivered by
-
Location
-
South Kensington
-
-
Applications: places
4 : 1 (2023)
Minimum entry standard
-
A*AA (A-level)
-
39 points (International Baccalaureate)
Course overview
As a biomedical engineer, you'll learn to use technology to help people live longer, healthier and happier lives.
You will have the chance to take fundamental engineering principles and knowledge of the human body and see how they are applied to potentially life-changing projects.
This course will suit you if you're interested in learning about a range of disciplines – from mechanics and nanotechnology to physiology, programming and design. Your course will be rooted in practical activities across these subjects, learning in our state-of-the-art facilities and interdisciplinary community.
With the ability to tailor your engineering interests to biomedical, electrical, mechanical or computational bioengineering, you'll be able to find a niche that suits you.
The skills you'll have the opportunity to develop will allow you to pursue careers in a range of sectors, whether it’s medical physics, starting your own company, or applying to a graduate medical programme.
As a biomedical engineer, you'll learn to use technology to help people live longer, healthier and happier lives.
You will have the chance to take fundamental engineering principles and knowledge of the human body and see how they are applied to potentially life-changing projects.
This course will suit you if you're interested in learning about a range of disciplines – from mechanics and nanotechnology to physiology, programming and design. Your course will be rooted in practical activities across these subjects, learning in our state-of-the-art facilities and interdisciplinary community.
With the ability to tailor your engineering interests to biomedical, electrical, mechanical or computational bioengineering, you'll be able to find a niche that suits you.
In your final year, you'll complete an integrated year abroad at one of our partner universities, where you can challenge yourself in a different academic and cultural environment.
The skills you'll have the opportunity to develop will allow you to pursue careers in a range of sectors, whether it’s medical physics, starting your own company, or applying to a graduate medical programme.
As a biomedical engineer, you'll learn to use technology to help people live longer, healthier and happier lives.
You will have the chance to take fundamental engineering principles and knowledge of the human body and see how they are applied to potentially life-changing projects.
This course will suit you if you're interested in learning about a range of disciplines – from mechanics and nanotechnology to physiology, programming and design. Your course will be rooted in practical activities across these subjects, learning in our state-of-the-art facilities and interdisciplinary community.
With the ability to tailor your engineering interests to biomedical, electrical, mechanical or computational bioengineering, you'll be able to find a niche that suits you.
In your fourth year, you'll complete a 12-month industry placement, where you'll gain invaluable real-world experience applying your theoretical knowledge in a practical setting.
The skills you'll have the opportunity to develop will allow you to pursue careers in a range of sectors, whether it's medical physics, starting your own company, or applying to a graduate medical programme.
Structure
This page is updated regularly to reflect the latest version of the curriculum. However, this information is subject to change.
Find out more about potential course changes.
Please note: it may not always be possible to take specific combinations of modules due to timetabling conflicts. For confirmation, please check with the relevant department.
You will study all of the following core modules.
Core modules
Gain a fundamental understanding of the chemistry and materials science principles related to bioengineering, including how material properties are governed by their structure at different length scales. You’ll also explore the foundations of classical thermodynamics and its applications in biomedical engineering and molecular sciences.
Uncover how to select the most appropriate mathematical technique for problem-solving and develop a platform of mathematical knowledge.
Learn the fundamentals of digital logic design and computer programming as you examine how digital computers communicate with the real world.
Explore the principles of mechanics and electronics and the mathematical connections between the two. Gain practical experience working in electronics and mechanics labs and uncover how these concepts can be used to study bioengineering problems.
Develop a foundational understanding of the chemistry and materials science principles related to bioengineering. You’ll also cultivate wet lab skills in preparing a range of biomaterials and practising key classification techniques.
Discover the principles of engineering design and broaden your practical skills as you utilise appropriate tools and software to solve a variety of design problems.
You will study all of the following core modules.
Core modules
Build upon your previous mathematical studies and equip yourself with the essential skills and knowledge you’ll utilise for the remainder of your Biomedical Engineering programme.
Uncover the foundations of signal processing and linear control systems and their applications across the fields of bioengineering, biomedicine and medical engineering.
Examine the basic concepts of structural mechanics and their relevance in design and risk analysis, in addition to developing analytical skills in stress analysis. You’ll also explore key equations in the study of fluid mechanics and apply these concepts to fluids problems within a biomedical context.
Understand the fundamental concepts and physical laws for electrostatics and magnetostatics and examine their application to basic physical and engineering problems. Gain experience working with simple electronics circuits and DC ORCAD/SPICE simulation of simple transistor topologies.
Harness the principles of engineering design and professional practice while collaborating on a Design, Make and Test group project. Work in a team to tackle a real design problem, broadening your engineering design skills and applying learning from other modules to a practical challenge.
Advance your programming skills using the Python language. Engage in labs and assignments to develop coding fluency. Cover more complex programming skills, including data structures, object-oriented programming, and algorithm design.
Broaden your understanding of the principles of thermodynamics and heat and mass transport in the context of biomedical engineering. Learn how to analyse transport-related processes using advanced mathematics and dimensional analysis, and how to formulate, manipulate and solve equations governing heat and mass transport.
Explore a range of physiological concepts and systems, including the nervous system, musculoskeletal system, endocrine system, gastrointestinal system, reproductive system and renal system. Learn about control processes in these systems, with an emphasis on the role of control, operational and design constraints within the nervous system.
In your third year, you will study four core modules.
You will also select two modules from the list of optional modules.
Some modules from other departments are offered (subject to availability) to enable you to study subjects related to Bioengineering in more depth. Please refer to the programme specification (at the bottom of this webpage) for further details.
Pathways
In your third year, you must choose between four biomedical engineering pathways:
- Bioengineering
- Mechanical Bioengineering
- Electrical Bioengineering
- Computational Bioengineering
Each pathway focuses on a different area within biomedical engineering, and each comprises its own set of compulsory modules.
Students transferred to the BEng programme do not need to choose a pathway, but must choose five optional modules in addition to the core modules.
Some optional modules listed may be compulsory for certain pathways. In this case, you will not be able to take the same module twice.
Some modules listed are hosted by other departments. These are subject to availability.
*Modules marked with an asterisk are level 7 modules. You will need to complete a minimum number of level 7 modules by the end of your degree.
Core modules (all pathways)
Examine probability theory and the mathematical concepts that underlie statistical models. Learn how to apply statistical models to real-world data and equip yourself with the statistical skills and knowledge required for the advanced years of your Bioengineering programme.
Gain experience and refine your skills in project management, time management, collaboration, reporting and general communication as you work in teams on a research project of your choice.
Uncover the mathematical and computational modelling techniques used in biology and physiology. Explore nonlinear dynamics, networks in biology and the basics of stochastic processes in biology and medicine, and apply theory to practice as you develop your own models using MATLAB.
Choose from a range of subjects hosted outside of the department and learn alongside students from other areas of study.
Bioengineering Pathway
Develop your understanding of electronics components and systems architecture and their applications in different types of biomedical instrumentation.
Explore the key concepts in biomechanics, such as kinematics and kinetics of human locomotion and macro- and micro-circulatory mechanics in various organs. Learn methods for analysing gait and practical approaches to quantifying and controlling biofluid flows.
Examine the major classes of biomedical implant materials (including metals, ceramics and polymers), focusing on their clinical use as replacements for body parts or tissue and the various reasons for failure.
Mechanical Bioengineering Pathway
Explore the key concepts in biomechanics, including kinematics and kinetics of human locomotion and macro- and micro-circulatory mechanics in various organs. Learn methods for analysing gait and practical approaches to quantifying and controlling biofluid flows.
Gain an understanding of advanced concepts in fluid mechanics and numerical methods for computational fluid dynamics, and examine their applications within physiology.
Examine advanced topics in mechanical drawing, stress analysis and finite element simulation in the context of biomedical applications. Learn how to design for the manufacture of biomedical devices, and obtain the skills required to become a stress analysis engineer in the biomedical/mechanical engineering industry.
Electrical Bioengineering Pathway
Develop your understanding of electronics components and systems architecture and their applications in different types of biomedical instrumentation.
Examine digital image processing and image analysis methods, and develop an appreciation of the computation involved in interpreting or ‘parsing’ images. Learn about the biomedical, clinical and research applications of image processing and computer vision.
Uncover the fundamental principles and techniques for representing, transforming and processing discrete-time signals. Deepen your knowledge through the practical implementation of theoretical concepts in biomedical applications.
Computational Bioengineering Pathway
Examine digital image processing and image analysis methods, and develop an appreciation of the computation involved in interpreting or ‘parsing’ images. Learn about the biomedical, clinical and research applications of image processing and computer vision.
Leverage your existing programming skills and gain experience working in a development team on a significant bioengineering software project. Learn software engineering tools, including those required for project lifecycle management, requirements capture, design, modelling, testing and effective teamwork.
Uncover the fundamental principles and techniques for representing, transforming and processing discrete-time signals. Deepen your knowledge through the practical implementation of theoretical concepts in biomedical applications.
Optional modules
Uncover the fundamental principles and techniques for representing, transforming and processing discrete-time signals. Deepen your knowledge through the practical implementation of theoretical concepts in biomedical applications.
Explore the key concepts in biomechanics, including kinematics and kinetics of human locomotion and macro- and micro-circulatory mechanics in various organs. Learn methods for analysing gait and practical approaches to quantifying and controlling biofluid flows.
Examine digital image processing and image analysis methods, and develop an appreciation of the computation involved in interpreting or ‘parsing’ images. Learn about the biomedical, clinical and research applications of image processing and computer vision.
Gain an understanding of advanced concepts in fluid mechanics and numerical methods for computational fluid dynamics, and examine their applications within physiology.
Study the principles of genetic engineering, synthetic biology and the design of biological machines. Learn how to design CRISPR-based genome edits and metabolic biosynthesis pathways and apply this knowledge in a series of experimental lab practicals where you edit the genome of yeast and introduce new enzymes into these cells to get them to produce coloured pigments for art.
Learn how to design intuitive and efficient rehabilitation systems and assistive devices, integrating mechatronics, human factors and computer games. Understand how to assess current and emergent systems against the principles of human-centred design.
Develop your understanding of electronics components and systems architecture and their applications in different types of biomedical instrumentation.
Examine advanced topics in mechanical drawing, stress analysis and finite element simulation in the context of biomedical applications. Learn how to design for the manufacture of biomedical devices, and obtain the skills required to become a stress analysis engineer in the biomedical/mechanical engineering industry.
Understand the fundamental concepts of tissue development and learn how researchers are using these concepts to imitate nature in a lab setting, engineering cells and tissues that may be used to model diseases, treat diseases or develop drugs.
Examine the major classes of biomedical implant materials (including metals, ceramics and polymers), focusing on their clinical use as replacements for body parts or tissue and the various reasons for failure.
Study the key theoretical concepts underpinning science communication and education in schools and other learning environments. Observe real-world science communication through placement in a school or other learning environment, then design and deliver your own practical activities within this learning environment.
Discover the new interdisciplinary field of biomimetics, which explores how functional principles found in nature can inspire scientists and engineers to solve outstanding technological problems.
In your fourth year, you will complete a compulsory individual project module.
You will also select five optional modules from Group A, and one optional module from Group B.
You will not be able to take the same module twice. Some modules are hosted in other departments and are subject to availability.
Some modules from other departments are offered (subject to availability) to enable you to study subjects related to Bioengineering in more depth. Please refer to the programme specification (at the bottom of this webpage) for further details.
*Modules marked with an asterisk are level 7 modules. You will need to complete a minimum number of level 7 modules by the end of your degree.
Core modules
Draw upon the knowledge and skills you’ve developed throughout your degree to tackle an unfamiliar research problem. Gain an understanding of the research environment as you work independently on a year-long research project that will address unanswered questions and challenges within an area of bioengineering.
Optional modules - Group A
Gain an appreciation of the role of computational and theoretical approaches to understanding the nervous system. Apply your knowledge by developing code and using numerical tools to develop models of brain function and processes.
Uncover the science behind the interfacing of the human brain to electronic circuitry. Learn about newly developed technologies, such as brain-machine interfaces (restoring movement and communication for paralysed patients) and deep-brain stimulation (for treatment of Parkinson’s disease).
Analyse and discuss the scientific literature relating to core aspects of biological and clinical measurement. Broaden your understanding of data handling and fitness for purpose, chemical measurement in cells and in vivo, challenges of non-invasive chemical monitoring of human tissue and approaches to invasive monitoring of tissue.
Explore the application of engineering principles and approaches to the study of biomechanical behaviour, bridging between the molecular, cellular and tissue level scales. Apply your knowledge of the principles of solid and fluid mechanics to analyse and understand processes and structures across a range of length scales.
Learn how to analyse cell function and examine how cells transform mechanical stimuli into biochemical signalling. Understand how mechanical forces regulate biological and physiological function, mechanotransduction in physiological and pathological scenarios, and techniques to mechanically manipulate biological entities.
Examine the control of human movement from the perspectives of both adaptation of the neural control system, and adaptation of properties of the mechanical plant. Supplement your understanding by reviewing published literature and drawing upon approaches from physiology, engineering and computational neuroscience.
Develop your understanding of the basic mechanics of the musculoskeletal system. Explore the structure and function of the musculoskeletal tissues (bone, cartilage, muscle, tendon, ligament), the mechanics of the tissues, diseases and injury of the tissues, and associated clinical treatments.
Explore ultrasound, MRI and light-based imaging and find out what information on the anatomy, composition and physiology of the human body these non-ionising imaging modalities can provide. Learn how to analyse images obtained through these methods and their range of clinical applications.
Discover the new interdisciplinary field of biomimetics, which explores how functional principles found in nature can inspire scientists and engineers to solve outstanding technological problems.
Receive practical training in bio-inspired robotics locomotion and learn about selected topics in animal locomotion. Consolidate your theoretical knowledge by participating in hands-on activities and reinforce your engineering skills through the implementation of mechatronics systems.
Learn the basics of simulation, physical layout and verification of Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) for bioengineering applications.
Understand the fundamental concepts of tissue development and learn how researchers are using these concepts to imitate nature in a lab setting, engineering cells and tissues that may be used to model diseases, treat diseases or develop drugs.
Explore the key concepts in biomechanics, including kinematics and kinetics of human locomotion and macro- and micro-circulatory mechanics in various organs. Learn methods for analysing gait and practical approaches to quantifying and controlling biofluid flows.
Gain insight into the process and challenges involved in the development of new products in the medical sector. Analyse case studies and hear guest presentations from startups, investment firms and entrepreneurs and learn from their experiences in bringing medical devices to market.
Discover the core neuroscience concepts and explore the 'state of the art' in regards to methodology and learn to provide multi-level descriptions of common brain disorders.
Assess the latest in nanotechnological advances in the field of cancer diagnostics and cancer therapies. You'll explore how academic research can directly impact, through applied science, the way cancer patients are screened, diagnosed, monitored and treated. Developing your skills in molecular bioengineering and its applications in: development of screening tools, diagnosis at the point of care and nanotechnologies for targeted drug delivery.
Examine the frontiers of biomaterials research and innovation by exploring the development of new biomaterials and highlighting their functionalities in various fields of application. Dive into their synthesis through the use of state-of-art technology such as synthetic biology and chemistry and biomimetic engineering.
Discover how engineering cell behaviours impact industrial biotechnology and the bioproduction of chemicals, sustainable agriculture, the environment and biofuels. Learn how academic research can lead to applied science with direct impact in industry and society.
Learn the key theoretical concepts underpinning science communication and education in learning environments. Observing practical science communication through a placement and putting your designs into practice within these placements.
Optional modules - Group B
Gain insight into the process and challenges involved in the development of new products in the medical sector. Analyse case studies and hear guest presentations from startups, investment firms and entrepreneurs and learn from their experiences in bringing medical devices to market.
Extend your practical knowledge across a range of business and management topics and gain an understanding of the financial, strategic, operational and organisational context in which engineering and science takes place.
Assess and discover the key information and skills needed by professional engineering in development of medical systems and devices. You'll explore product development for medical devices as well as safety, hazards and safe working practice.
You will study all of the following core modules.
Core modules
Gain a fundamental understanding of the chemistry and materials science principles related to bioengineering, including how material properties are governed by their structure at different length scales. You’ll also explore the foundations of classical thermodynamics and its applications in biomedical engineering and molecular sciences.
Uncover how to select the most appropriate mathematical technique for problem-solving and develop a platform of mathematical knowledge.
Learn the fundamentals of digital logic design and computer programming as you examine how digital computers communicate with the real world.
Explore the principles of mechanics and electronics and the mathematical connections between the two. Gain practical experience working in electronics and mechanics labs and uncover how these concepts can be used to study bioengineering problems.
Develop a foundational understanding of the chemistry and materials science principles related to bioengineering. You’ll also cultivate wet lab skills in preparing a range of biomaterials and practising key classification techniques.
Discover the principles of engineering design and broaden your practical skills as you utilise appropriate tools and software to solve a variety of design problems.
You will study all of the following core modules.
Core modules
Build upon your previous mathematical studies and equip yourself with the essential skills and knowledge you’ll utilise for the remainder of your Biomedical Engineering programme.
Uncover the foundations of signal processing and linear control systems and their applications across the fields of bioengineering, biomedicine and medical engineering.
Examine the basic concepts of structural mechanics and their relevance in design and risk analysis, in addition to developing analytical skills in stress analysis. You’ll also explore key equations in the study of fluid mechanics and apply these concepts to fluids problems within a biomedical context.
Understand the fundamental concepts and physical laws for electrostatics and magnetostatics and examine their application to basic physical and engineering problems. Gain experience working with simple electronics circuits and DC ORCAD/SPICE simulation of simple transistor topologies.
Harness the principles of engineering design and professional practice while collaborating on a Design, Make and Test group project. Work in a team to tackle a real design problem, broadening your engineering design skills and applying learning from other modules to a practical challenge.
Advance your programming skills using the Python language. Engage in labs and assignments to develop coding fluency. Cover more complex programming skills, including data structures, object-oriented programming, and algorithm design.
Broaden your understanding of the principles of thermodynamics and heat and mass transport in the context of biomedical engineering. Learn how to analyse transport-related processes using advanced mathematics and dimensional analysis, and how to formulate, manipulate and solve equations governing heat and mass transport.
Explore a range of physiological concepts and systems, including the nervous system, musculoskeletal system, endocrine system, gastrointestinal system, reproductive system and renal system. Learn about control processes in these systems, with an emphasis on the role of control, operational and design constraints within the nervous system.
In your third year, you will study four core modules.
You will also select two modules from the list of optional modules.
Some modules from other departments are offered (subject to availability) to enable you to study subjects related to Bioengineering in more depth. Please refer to the programme specification (at the bottom of this webpage) for further details.
Pathways
In your third year, you must* choose between four biomedical engineering pathways:
- Bioengineering
- Mechanical Bioengineering
- Electrical Bioengineering
- Computational Bioengineering
Each pathway focuses on a different area within biomedical engineering, and each comprises its own set of compulsory modules.
Students transferred to the BEng programme do not need to choose a pathway, but must choose five optional modules in addition to the core modules.
Some optional modules listed may be compulsory for certain pathways. In this case, you will not be able to take the same module twice.
Some modules listed are hosted by other departments. These are subject to availability.
*Modules marked with an asterisk are level 7 modules. You will need to complete a minimum number of level 7 modules by the end of your degree.
Core modules (all pathways)
Examine probability theory and the mathematical concepts that underlie statistical models. Learn how to apply statistical models to real-world data and equip yourself with the statistical skills and knowledge required for the advanced years of your Bioengineering programme.
Gain experience and refine your skills in project management, time management, collaboration, reporting and general communication as you work in teams on a research project of your choice.
Uncover the mathematical and computational modelling techniques used in biology and physiology. Explore nonlinear dynamics, networks in biology and the basics of stochastic processes in biology and medicine, and apply theory to practice as you develop your own models using MATLAB.
Choose from a range of subjects hosted outside of the department and learn alongside students from other areas of study.
Bioengineering Pathway
Develop your understanding of electronics components and systems architecture and their applications in different types of biomedical instrumentation.
Explore the key concepts in biomechanics, such as kinematics and kinetics of human locomotion and macro- and micro-circulatory mechanics in various organs. Learn methods for analysing gait and practical approaches to quantifying and controlling biofluid flows.
Examine the major classes of biomedical implant materials (including metals, ceramics and polymers), focusing on their clinical use as replacements for body parts or tissue and the various reasons for failure.
Mechanical Bioengineering Pathway
Explore the key concepts in biomechanics, including kinematics and kinetics of human locomotion and macro- and micro-circulatory mechanics in various organs. Learn methods for analysing gait and practical approaches to quantifying and controlling biofluid flows.
Gain an understanding of advanced concepts in fluid mechanics and numerical methods for computational fluid dynamics, and examine their applications within physiology.
Examine advanced topics in mechanical drawing, stress analysis and finite element simulation in the context of biomedical applications. Learn how to design for the manufacture of biomedical devices, and obtain the skills required to become a stress analysis engineer in the biomedical/mechanical engineering industry.
Electrical Bioengineering Pathway
Develop your understanding of electronics components and systems architecture and their applications in different types of biomedical instrumentation.
Examine digital image processing and image analysis methods, and develop an appreciation of the computation involved in interpreting or ‘parsing’ images. Learn about the biomedical, clinical and research applications of image processing and computer vision.
Uncover the fundamental principles and techniques for representing, transforming and processing discrete-time signals. Deepen your knowledge through the practical implementation of theoretical concepts in biomedical applications.
Computational Bioengineering Pathway
Examine digital image processing and image analysis methods, and develop an appreciation of the computation involved in interpreting or ‘parsing’ images. Learn about the biomedical, clinical and research applications of image processing and computer vision.
Leverage your existing programming skills and gain experience working in a development team on a significant bioengineering software project. Learn software engineering tools, including those required for project lifecycle management, requirements capture, design, modelling, testing and effective teamwork.
Uncover the fundamental principles and techniques for representing, transforming and processing discrete-time signals. Deepen your knowledge through the practical implementation of theoretical concepts in biomedical applications.
Optional modules
Uncover the fundamental principles and techniques for representing, transforming and processing discrete-time signals. Deepen your knowledge through the practical implementation of theoretical concepts in biomedical applications.
Explore the key concepts in biomechanics, including kinematics and kinetics of human locomotion and macro- and micro-circulatory mechanics in various organs. Learn methods for analysing gait and practical approaches to quantifying and controlling biofluid flows.
Examine digital image processing and image analysis methods, and develop an appreciation of the computation involved in interpreting or ‘parsing’ images. Learn about the biomedical, clinical and research applications of image processing and computer vision.
Gain an understanding of advanced concepts in fluid mechanics and numerical methods for computational fluid dynamics, and examine their applications within physiology.
Study the principles of genetic engineering, synthetic biology and the design of biological machines. Learn how to design CRISPR-based genome edits and metabolic biosynthesis pathways and apply this knowledge in a series of experimental lab practicals where you edit the genome of yeast and introduce new enzymes into these cells to get them to produce coloured pigments for art.
Learn how to design intuitive and efficient rehabilitation systems and assistive devices, integrating mechatronics, human factors and computer games. Understand how to assess current and emergent systems against the principles of human-centred design.
Develop your understanding of electronics components and systems architecture and their applications in different types of biomedical instrumentation.
Examine advanced topics in mechanical drawing, stress analysis and finite element simulation in the context of biomedical applications. Learn how to design for the manufacture of biomedical devices, and obtain the skills required to become a stress analysis engineer in the biomedical/mechanical engineering industry.
Understand the fundamental concepts of tissue development and learn how researchers are using these concepts to imitate nature in a lab setting, engineering cells and tissues that may be used to model diseases, treat diseases or develop drugs.
Examine the major classes of biomedical implant materials (including metals, ceramics and polymers), focusing on their clinical use as replacements for body parts or tissue and the various reasons for failure.
Study the key theoretical concepts underpinning science communication and education in schools and other learning environments. Observe real-world science communication through placement in a school or other learning environment, then design and deliver your own practical activities within this learning environment.
Discover the new interdisciplinary field of biomimetics, which explores how functional principles found in nature can inspire scientists and engineers to solve outstanding technological problems.
The final year consists of an agreed programme of study at an approved university in either France, Singapore, Switzerland, or the USA.
We currently have exchange agreements with:
- Grenoble INP (part of Université Grenobles Alpes), France
- National University of Singapore, Singapore
- ETH Zurich, Switzerland
- University of California, USA
This is an integrated year abroad so the grades you achieve will count directly towards your Imperial degree.
You will study all of the following core modules.
Core modules
Gain a fundamental understanding of the chemistry and materials science principles related to bioengineering, including how material properties are governed by their structure at different length scales. You’ll also explore the foundations of classical thermodynamics and its applications in biomedical engineering and molecular sciences.
Uncover how to select the most appropriate mathematical technique for problem-solving and develop a platform of mathematical knowledge.
Learn the fundamentals of digital logic design and computer programming as you examine how digital computers communicate with the real world.
Explore the principles of mechanics and electronics and the mathematical connections between the two. Gain practical experience working in electronics and mechanics labs and uncover how these concepts can be used to study bioengineering problems.
Develop a foundational understanding of the chemistry and materials science principles related to bioengineering. You’ll also cultivate wet lab skills in preparing a range of biomaterials and practising key classification techniques.
Discover the principles of engineering design and broaden your practical skills as you utilise appropriate tools and software to solve a variety of design problems.
You will study all of the following core modules.
Core modules
Build upon your previous mathematical studies and equip yourself with the essential skills and knowledge you’ll utilise for the remainder of your Biomedical Engineering programme.
Uncover the foundations of signal processing and linear control systems and their applications across the fields of bioengineering, biomedicine and medical engineering.
Examine the basic concepts of structural mechanics and their relevance in design and risk analysis, in addition to developing analytical skills in stress analysis. You’ll also explore key equations in the study of fluid mechanics and apply these concepts to fluids problems within a biomedical context.
Understand the fundamental concepts and physical laws for electrostatics and magnetostatics and examine their application to basic physical and engineering problems. Gain experience working with simple electronics circuits and DC ORCAD/SPICE simulation of simple transistor topologies.
Harness the principles of engineering design and professional practice while collaborating on a Design, Make and Test group project. Work in a team to tackle a real design problem, broadening your engineering design skills and applying learning from other modules to a practical challenge.
Advance your programming skills using the Python language. Engage in labs and assignments to develop coding fluency. Cover more complex programming skills, including data structures, object-oriented programming, and algorithm design.
Broaden your understanding of the principles of thermodynamics and heat and mass transport in the context of biomedical engineering. Learn how to analyse transport-related processes using advanced mathematics and dimensional analysis, and how to formulate, manipulate and solve equations governing heat and mass transport.
Explore a range of physiological concepts and systems, including the nervous system, musculoskeletal system, endocrine system, gastrointestinal system, reproductive system and renal system. Learn about control processes in these systems, with an emphasis on the role of control, operational and design constraints within the nervous system.
In your third year, you will study four core modules.
You will also select two modules from the list of optional modules.
Some modules from other departments are offered (subject to availability) to enable you to study subjects related to Bioengineering in more depth. Please refer to the programme specification (at the bottom of this webpage) for further details.
Pathways
In your third year, you must* choose between four biomedical engineering pathways:
- Bioengineering
- Mechanical Bioengineering
- Electrical Bioengineering
- Computational Bioengineering
Each pathway focuses on a different area within biomedical engineering, and each comprises its own set of compulsory modules.
Students transferred to the BEng programme do not need to choose a pathway, but must choose five optional modules in addition to the core modules.
Some optional modules listed may be compulsory for certain pathways. In this case, you will not be able to take the same module twice.
Some modules listed are hosted by other departments. These are subject to availability.
*Modules marked with an asterisk are level 7 modules. You will need to complete a minimum number of level 7 modules by the end of your degree.
Core modules (all pathways)
Examine probability theory and the mathematical concepts that underlie statistical models. Learn how to apply statistical models to real-world data and equip yourself with the statistical skills and knowledge required for the advanced years of your Bioengineering programme.
Gain experience and refine your skills in project management, time management, collaboration, reporting and general communication as you work in teams on a research project of your choice.
Uncover the mathematical and computational modelling techniques used in biology and physiology. Explore nonlinear dynamics, networks in biology and the basics of stochastic processes in biology and medicine, and apply theory to practice as you develop your own models using MATLAB.
Choose from a range of subjects hosted outside of the department and learn alongside students from other areas of study.
Bioengineering Pathway
Develop your understanding of electronics components and systems architecture and their applications in different types of biomedical instrumentation.
Explore the key concepts in biomechanics, such as kinematics and kinetics of human locomotion and macro- and micro-circulatory mechanics in various organs. Learn methods for analysing gait and practical approaches to quantifying and controlling biofluid flows.
Examine the major classes of biomedical implant materials (including metals, ceramics and polymers), focusing on their clinical use as replacements for body parts or tissue and the various reasons for failure.
Mechanical Bioengineering Pathway
Explore the key concepts in biomechanics, including kinematics and kinetics of human locomotion and macro- and micro-circulatory mechanics in various organs. Learn methods for analysing gait and practical approaches to quantifying and controlling biofluid flows.
Gain an understanding of advanced concepts in fluid mechanics and numerical methods for computational fluid dynamics, and examine their applications within physiology.
Examine advanced topics in mechanical drawing, stress analysis and finite element simulation in the context of biomedical applications. Learn how to design for the manufacture of biomedical devices, and obtain the skills required to become a stress analysis engineer in the biomedical/mechanical engineering industry.
Electrical Bioengineering Pathway
Develop your understanding of electronics components and systems architecture and their applications in different types of biomedical instrumentation.
Examine digital image processing and image analysis methods, and develop an appreciation of the computation involved in interpreting or ‘parsing’ images. Learn about the biomedical, clinical and research applications of image processing and computer vision.
Uncover the fundamental principles and techniques for representing, transforming and processing discrete-time signals. Deepen your knowledge through the practical implementation of theoretical concepts in biomedical applications.
Computational Bioengineering Pathway
Examine digital image processing and image analysis methods, and develop an appreciation of the computation involved in interpreting or ‘parsing’ images. Learn about the biomedical, clinical and research applications of image processing and computer vision.
Leverage your existing programming skills and gain experience working in a development team on a significant bioengineering software project. Learn software engineering tools, including those required for project lifecycle management, requirements capture, design, modelling, testing and effective teamwork.
Uncover the fundamental principles and techniques for representing, transforming and processing discrete-time signals. Deepen your knowledge through the practical implementation of theoretical concepts in biomedical applications.
Optional modules
Uncover the fundamental principles and techniques for representing, transforming and processing discrete-time signals. Deepen your knowledge through the practical implementation of theoretical concepts in biomedical applications.
Explore the key concepts in biomechanics, including kinematics and kinetics of human locomotion and macro- and micro-circulatory mechanics in various organs. Learn methods for analysing gait and practical approaches to quantifying and controlling biofluid flows.
Examine digital image processing and image analysis methods, and develop an appreciation of the computation involved in interpreting or ‘parsing’ images. Learn about the biomedical, clinical and research applications of image processing and computer vision.
Gain an understanding of advanced concepts in fluid mechanics and numerical methods for computational fluid dynamics, and examine their applications within physiology.
Study the principles of genetic engineering, synthetic biology and the design of biological machines. Learn how to design CRISPR-based genome edits and metabolic biosynthesis pathways and apply this knowledge in a series of experimental lab practicals where you edit the genome of yeast and introduce new enzymes into these cells to get them to produce coloured pigments for art.
Learn how to design intuitive and efficient rehabilitation systems and assistive devices, integrating mechatronics, human factors and computer games. Understand how to assess current and emergent systems against the principles of human-centred design.
Develop your understanding of electronics components and systems architecture and their applications in different types of biomedical instrumentation.
Examine advanced topics in mechanical drawing, stress analysis and finite element simulation in the context of biomedical applications. Learn how to design for the manufacture of biomedical devices, and obtain the skills required to become a stress analysis engineer in the biomedical/mechanical engineering industry.
Understand the fundamental concepts of tissue development and learn how researchers are using these concepts to imitate nature in a lab setting, engineering cells and tissues that may be used to model diseases, treat diseases or develop drugs.
Examine the major classes of biomedical implant materials (including metals, ceramics and polymers), focusing on their clinical use as replacements for body parts or tissue and the various reasons for failure.
Study the key theoretical concepts underpinning science communication and education in schools and other learning environments. Observe real-world science communication through placement in a school or other learning environment, then design and deliver your own practical activities within this learning environment.
Discover the new interdisciplinary field of biomimetics, which explores how functional principles found in nature can inspire scientists and engineers to solve outstanding technological problems.
You will spend this year working in industry, applying your knowledge in a practical setting. Here you will work on a project set by your host company.
You will find a placement opportunity, with support available from the Department's dedicated Industrial Liaison Officer and the Careers Service.
Placements outside the UK are possible with approval from the Department.
Students have previously enjoyed placement opportunities at companies such as:
- GSK - Drugs Delivery Devices Team
- Renishaw - Neurotechnology Department
In your fifth year, you will complete a compulsory individual project module.
You will also select five optional modules from Group A, and one optional module from Group B.
You will not be able to take the same module twice. Some modules are hosted in other departments and are subject to availability.
*Modules marked with an asterisk are level 7 modules. You will need to complete a minimum number of level 7 modules by the end of your degree.
Core modules
Draw upon the knowledge and skills you’ve developed throughout your degree to tackle an unfamiliar research problem. Gain an understanding of the research environment as you work independently on a year-long research project that will address unanswered questions and challenges within an area of bioengineering.
Optional modules - Group A
Gain an appreciation of the role of computational and theoretical approaches to understanding the nervous system. Apply your knowledge by developing code and using numerical tools to develop models of brain function and processes.
Uncover the science behind the interfacing of the human brain to electronic circuitry. Learn about newly developed technologies, such as brain-machine interfaces (restoring movement and communication for paralysed patients) and deep-brain stimulation (for treatment of Parkinson’s disease).
Analyse and discuss the scientific literature relating to core aspects of biological and clinical measurement. Broaden your understanding of data handling and fitness for purpose, chemical measurement in cells and in vivo, challenges of non-invasive chemical monitoring of human tissue and approaches to invasive monitoring of tissue.
Explore the application of engineering principles and approaches to the study of biomechanical behaviour, bridging between the molecular, cellular and tissue level scales. Apply your knowledge of the principles of solid and fluid mechanics to analyse and understand processes and structures across a range of length scales.
Learn how to analyse cell function and examine how cells transform mechanical stimuli into biochemical signalling. Understand how mechanical forces regulate biological and physiological function, mechanotransduction in physiological and pathological scenarios, and techniques to mechanically manipulate biological entities.
Examine the control of human movement from the perspectives of both adaptation of the neural control system, and adaptation of properties of the mechanical plant. Supplement your understanding by reviewing published literature and drawing upon approaches from physiology, engineering and computational neuroscience.
Develop your understanding of the basic mechanics of the musculoskeletal system. Explore the structure and function of the musculoskeletal tissues (bone, cartilage, muscle, tendon, ligament), the mechanics of the tissues, diseases and injury of the tissues, and associated clinical treatments.
Explore ultrasound, MRI and light-based imaging and find out what information on the anatomy, composition and physiology of the human body these non-ionising imaging modalities can provide. Learn how to analyse images obtained through these methods and their range of clinical applications.
Discover the new interdisciplinary field of biomimetics, which explores how functional principles found in nature can inspire scientists and engineers to solve outstanding technological problems.
Receive practical training in bio-inspired robotics locomotion and learn about selected topics in animal locomotion. Consolidate your theoretical knowledge by participating in hands-on activities and reinforce your engineering skills through the implementation of mechatronics systems.
Learn the basics of simulation, physical layout and verification of Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) for bioengineering applications.
Understand the fundamental concepts of tissue development and learn how researchers are using these concepts to imitate nature in a lab setting, engineering cells and tissues that may be used to model diseases, treat diseases or develop drugs.
Explore the key concepts in biomechanics, including kinematics and kinetics of human locomotion and macro- and micro-circulatory mechanics in various organs. Learn methods for analysing gait and practical approaches to quantifying and controlling biofluid flows.
Gain insight into the process and challenges involved in the development of new products in the medical sector. Analyse case studies and hear guest presentations from startups, investment firms and entrepreneurs and learn from their experiences in bringing medical devices to market.
Optional modules - Group B
Gain insight into the process and challenges involved in the development of new products in the medical sector. Analyse case studies and hear guest presentations from startups, investment firms and entrepreneurs and learn from their experiences in bringing medical devices to market.
Extend your practical knowledge across a range of business and management topics and gain an understanding of the financial, strategic, operational and organisational context in which engineering and science takes place.
Professional accreditation
This degree is professionally accredited by the following organisations on behalf of the Engineering Council:
- Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)
- Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3)
- Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine (IPEM)
- Institution of Engineering Designers (IED)
With this integrated Master’s degree, you’ll fully meet the academic requirements for professional registration as a Chartered Engineer.
With a professionally accredited degree, you’ll be able to demonstrate to employers that you have achieved an industry-recognised standard of competency. Professional accreditation also provides international recognition of your qualifications, which you can use to launch a career abroad.
Becoming a Chartered Engineer can further enhance your career prospects and earning potential. It demonstrates your competencies and commitment to lifelong learning – providing you with recognition in your field and greater influence and opportunities.
Our course accreditations are renewed every five years; the current accreditation agreement covering the current academic year and onwards is provisional and subject to our satisfying the requirements of the accrediting Professional Engineering Institutes, which we expect to complete by the end of the Academic Year.
Associateship
In addition to your degree, you’ll receive the Associateship of the City and Guilds of London Institute (ACGI) upon completion of this course. This associateship is awarded by one of our historic constituent Colleges.
Teaching and assessment
Balance of teaching and learning
Key
- Lectures, seminars and similar
- Independent study, group projects and individual research project
Year 1
- 27% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 73% Independent study, group projects and individual research project
Year 2
- 27% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 73% Independent study, group projects and individual research project
Year 3
- 17% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 83% Independent study, group projects and individual research project
Year 4
- 17% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 83% Independent study, group projects and individual research project
Teaching and learning methods
- Laboratory sessions
- Lectures and guest lectures
- Make, build and test activities
- Tutorials
- Study groups
- Virtual learning environment
Balance of assessment
Key
- Coursework
- Examinations
Year 1
- 30% Coursework
- 70% Examinations
Year 2
- 30% Coursework
- 70% Examinations
Year 3
- 47% Coursework
- 53% Examinations
Year 4
- 59% Coursework
- 41% Examinations
Assessment methods
- Coursework
- Examinations
- Oral presentations
- Poster presentations
Balance of teaching and learning
Key
- Lectures, seminars and similar
- Independent study, group projects and individual research project
Year 1
- 27% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 73% Independent study, group projects and individual research project
Year 2
- 27% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 73% Independent study, group projects and individual research project
Year 3
- 17% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 83% Independent study, group projects and individual research project
Teaching and learning methods
- Laboratory sessions
- Lectures and guest lectures
- Make, build and test activities
- Tutorials
- Study groups
- Virtual learning environment
Balance of assessment
Key
- Coursework
- Examinations
Year 1
- 30% Coursework
- 70% Examinations
Year 2
- 30% Coursework
- 70% Examinations
Year 3
- 47% Coursework
- 53% Examinations
Assessment methods
- Coursework
- Examinations
- Oral presentations
- Poster presentations
Balance of teaching and learning
Key
- Lectures, seminars and similar
- Independent study, group projects and individual research project
Year 1
- 27% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 73% Independent study, group projects and individual research project
Year 2
- 27% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 73% Independent study, group projects and individual research project
Year 3
- 17% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 83% Independent study, group projects and individual research project
Year 5
- 17% Lectures, seminars and similar
- 83% Independent study, group projects and individual research project
Teaching and learning methods
- Laboratory sessions
- Lectures and guest lectures
- Make, build and test activities
- Tutorials
- Study groups
- Virtual learning environment
Balance of assessment
Key
- Coursework
- Examinations
Year 1
- 30% Coursework
- 70% Examinations
Year 2
- 30% Coursework
- 70% Examinations
Year 3
- 47% Coursework
- 53% Examinations
Year 4
- 100% Coursework
- 0% Examinations
Year 5
- 59% Coursework
- 41% Examinations
Assessment methods
- Coursework
- Examinations
- Oral presentations
- Poster presentations
Entry requirements
We consider all applicants on an individual basis, welcoming students from all over the world.
How to apply
Apply via UCAS
You can now submit your application via UCAS Hub. There you can add this course as one of your choices and track your application.
UCAS institution code: I50
Application deadlines – 29 January 2025 at 18.00 (UK time)
UCAS institution code: I50
Application deadlines – 29 January 2025 at 18.00 (UK time)
UCAS institution code: I50
Application deadlines – 29 January 2025 at 18.00 (UK time)
This department does not use a test as part of its selection process.
Predicted grades and scores in your application are important, but it’s not the only thing that drives the decision.
Our selectors will also consider things like your personal statement and your references to understand whether there is a good match between you and your chosen subject and department at Imperial.
You can read more about our selection process, including tips on writing a personal statement, in our How to apply section.
Assessing your application
Admissions Tutors consider all the evidence available during our rigorous selection process and the College flags key information providing assessors with a more complete picture of the educational and social circumstances relevant to the applicant. Some applicants may be set lower offers and some more challenging ones.
Post-application open day and interview
When assessing applications, we will consider your examination results (already gained and predicted), your motivation and understanding of bioengineering as a career, your potential for leadership and teamwork, your interests and the referee’s report.
You may be invited to an online interview if your UCAS application indicates that you are likely to satisfy our entry requirements and you demonstrate interest and motivation to study this course.
Additional activities will include a talk from our department, a group activity and a virtual tour of our department.
An ATAS certificate is not required for students applying for this course.
This course includes opportunities to spend a year abroad or a year in industry.
Students interested in these opportunities should apply for this course (BH9C) in the first instance. Transfer to the Year Abroad or Industry options are possible up to the beginning of the third year, on completion of the shared syllabus in years one and two. You need to meet certain academic requirements to be eligible for transfer to the Year Abroad course.
If you are an international student, transferring to a different course could have an impact on your student visa. Please visit our International Student Support webpage for further information.
Year abroad
Language requirement
Teaching is in the language of your host country, so you will need to reach an acceptable proficiency in the relevant language before you go. Free language classes are available at the College to help you prepare.
Availability
There are limited places available on the Year Abroad programme, which means that competition for selection is strong and a placement cannot be guaranteed.
Normally, only students with marks of 60% or above will be eligible for placements in France and Germany. Only students with marks of 70% or above will be eligible for placements in Singapore and the USA.
Please note the list of universities located abroad that the Department currently has partnerships with is illustrative.
Partnerships with universities are subject to continuous review and individual partnerships may or may not be renewed.
Year in industry
You are responsible for finding a placement opportunity, with support available from the Department's dedicated Industrial Liaison Officer and the Careers Service. Securing a placement can be competitive, so you will need to identify suitable employers, and take part in recruitment activities with multiple employers.
The employer can often be in a location of your choice – including outside the UK – as long as you are successful in obtaining a position there and the placement is approved by the Department.
The Department also offers a MEng in Molecular Bioengineering. The main difference between the courses is that Biomedical Engineering takes a top-down approach, looking first at the whole organism, injury or problem and then working down to a cellular level.
By contrast, Molecular Bioengineering takes a bottom-up approach, first looking at cells and molecules, then building up from tissues and organs to the whole organism or human.
Transfer between the MEng Biomedical Engineering and the MEng Molecular Bioengineering is rare and you would need to have met the entry requirements for both programmes.
Tuition fees
Home fee
2025 entry
£9,535 per year
Year abroad
2025 entry
£1,450 for that year
Year in industry
2025 entry
£950 for that year
Important update for 2025 entry
The UK government has announced that, starting in April 2025, maximum tuition fees for Home undergraduate students in England will increase from £9,250 per year to £9,535. Find out more.
Your fee is based on the year you enter the university, not your year of study. This means that if you repeat a year or resume your studies after an interruption, your fees will only increase by the amount linked to inflation.
Find out more about our tuition fees payment terms, including how inflationary increases are applied to your tuition fees in subsequent years of study.
Whether you pay the Home or Overseas fee depends on your fee status. This is assessed based on UK Government legislation and includes things like where you live and your nationality or residency status. Find out how we assess your fee status.
If you're a Home student, you can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan from the UK government to cover the entire cost of tuition for every year of your course.
The loan is paid directly to the university.
You will start repaying it only after you leave your course, have a job, and are earning above a certain amount.
Once the repayments start, the amount you pay each month depends on how much you earn, not on how much you owe in total.
Home students can apply for a means-tested Maintenance Loan to help with their living costs.
In November 2024, the UK government announced a 3.1% increase in English Maintenance Loans for 2025-26.
How you apply for student finance depends on whether you have studied before and where you’re from or normally live. Find out more on the UK government's website.
The Imperial Bursary is available to all Home undergraduate students with a household income below £70,000 per year.
The amount awarded is based on your household income, with up to £5,000/year available for students from the lowest income households.
It's money which you don't need to pay back, and it's paid on top of any government funding you may also receive.
It is available for each year of your course, as long as your annual household income remains below £70,000.
Overseas fee
2025 entry
£43,300 per year
Year abroad
2025 entry
100% of the fee for that year
Year in industry
2025 entry
10% of the fee for that year
Your fee is based on the year you enter the university, not your year of study. This means that if you repeat a year or resume your studies after an interruption, your fees will only increase by the amount linked to inflation.
Find out more about our tuition fees payment terms, including how inflationary increases are applied to your tuition fees in subsequent years of study.
Whether you pay the Home or Overseas fee depends on your fee status. This is assessed based on UK Government legislation and includes things like where you live and your nationality or residency status. Find out how we assess your fee status.
How will studying at Imperial help my career?
96% Of Imperial Bioengineering graduates in work or further study*
- 96% Of Imperial Bioengineering graduates in work or further study*
- 4%
91% Of Imperial Bioengineering graduates in highly skilled work or further study*
- 91% Of Imperial Bioengineering graduates in highly skilled work or further study*
- 9%
*2021-22 graduate outcomes data, published by HESA in 2024
This career-oriented degree allows you to pursue opportunities in a rapidly expanding field.
Around 60% of postgraduates find employment upon graduation, while just over a third opt for continued study or training.
Be equipped with the skills essential to pursue opportunities across a variety of career paths.
You can pursue a career in a range of sectors – with sought-after skills in medicine, healthcare and the medical devices industry.
Other potential career paths could include research, teaching, start-ups, consultancy and finance.
Further links
Contact the department
- Telephone: +44 (0)20 7594 3940
- Email: be.ugadmissions@imperial.ac.uk
Visit the Department of Bioengineering website
Request info
Learn more about studying at Imperial. Receive useful information about our life in our undergraduate community and download our latest Study Guide.
Events, tasters and talks
Meet us and find out more about studying at Imperial.
Course data
Terms and conditions
There are some important pieces of information you should be aware of when applying to Imperial. These include key information about your tuition fees, funding, visas, accommodation and more.
You can find further information about your course, including degree classifications, regulations, progression and awards in the programme specification for your course.
Programme specifications