Undergraduate Programming in Biomedical Engineering

Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering

Penn State’s biomedical engineering (BME) program is currently the University’s fastest growing engineering sub-discipline. We prepare students for a career in biomedical engineering, a field that is expanding rapidly as an aging population increases demand for new medical devices and procedures.

We offer all the amenities of a large research university while also providing one-on-one instruction and support from top faculty. Our curriculum combines innovative engineering with biology and medicine to prepare students for a variety of career paths.

Our bachelor of science in biomedical engineering program offers four specialized degree options that allow students to focus on key areas:

  • Biochemical
  • Biomaterials
  • Medical Imaging and Devices
  • Biomechanics 

Other available options include the biomedical/mechanical engineering concurrent major option or a pre-med biomedical engineering track in one of the above options. We also offer a variety of graduate degree options to improve career marketability.

In 2019, we opened a new building, the Chemical and Biomedical Engineering Building, at Penn State University Park that houses both our department and the Department of Chemical Engineering. This new building features state-of-the-art classrooms, lecture halls, student common areas, and laboratory suites. 

We encourage collaborative, engaged, and real-world learning. Approximately 75 percent of BME students participate in co-ops, internships, undergraduate research, study abroad programs, and global capstone projects. Our students also have access to speakers, conferences, and competitions, as well as interdisciplinary and leadership learning opportunities. Learn more »

What is a biomedical engineer?

Biomedical engineers apply life sciences, chemistry, and engineering to define and solve problems in biology, medicine, health care, and other related fields. Their work focuses on the betterment of human health and society. They design, create, and improve medical devices, therapeutics instrumentation, medical information systems, and health management and care delivery systems to improve the quality of life of people around the world.

Penn State biomedical engineering graduates have moved onto:

  • Jobs at companies such as Abbott; Siemens; Johnson & Johnson; Medtronic; Emerson Automation Solutions; ACell; Boston Scientific; Merck; Pfizer; National Institutes of Health; Bayer HealthCare; Accenture; Cato Research; Thermo Fisher Scientific; Cleveland Clinic
  • Medical and graduate school at universities such as Penn State; Johns Hopkins University; Carnegie Mellon University; University of Pittsburgh; University of Pennsylvania; Cornell University; University of California, Berkeley; University of California, San Diego; Georgia Tech; Hong Kong Polytechnic University; Columbia University; West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine; Thomas Jefferson University; University of Michigan

Related Minors, Certicates, and Associate Degrees