Biomedical Engineering

Overview

This course is a suitable preparation for employment in the medical device, pharma and biotechnology sectors and as preparation for PhD studies or research positions. The course draws upon the internationally recognised research with the school in areas such as Tissue Engineering, Bioceramics, Medical Electrodes and Drug Delivery. The course team also has a wealth of industrial experience and several medical device spin out companies have been established by the School.



An outstanding 94% of the School of Engineering research output has been judged as world-leading or internationally excellent, and it is ranked in the top 20 of Engineering departments in the UK (REF 2021). The course is based in internationally recognised NIBEC centre within the school which is the longest established Biomedical Research Centre in Ireland. The multi-million pound purpose-built facilities house some of the most sophisticated nano-fabrication, biological and characterisation equipment in the world. NIBEC is staffed by an internationally recognised and well experienced team of researchers and academics working predominantly at the interface of bioengineering and nanotechnology.



Work placement / study abroad

Part-time students can undertake work-based learning modules. We have close links with the vibrant medical device sector with past graduates working in many key companies. Our students have the opportunity to learn directly from industry in an optional semester 2 module, which includes industrial guest speakers. During the dissertation, which runs throughout the yearlong course, students will undertake original research and be mentored as part of an existing research group. The research facilities within the school include a comprehensive suite of analytical equipment including several electron microscopes, cell biology, tissue engineering, nanoparticle and cardiology laboratories, and a comprehensive 3D printing suite.

Year one

Biomaterials 1

Bioinstrumentation

Tissue Engineering

Research Methods & Facilities

Research Project (Part 1)

Research Project



Optional:

Entrepreneurship (Engineering)



Year two

Work based learning 1

Work based learning 2



Optional:

Embedded Systems RTOS Design

Micro- & Nano-Scale Devices

Nanoscale Analysis & Metrology

Manufacturing systems

Finite Element Analysis and Computational Fluid Dynamics

Quality Improvement

Computer Aided Engineering for Managers

Polymer Technology

Composite Engineering

Process Product Optimisation

Mechanics of Sheet Metal Forming

• An Honours or non-Honours degree, HND or postgraduate diploma/certificate in a relevant engineering, technology or science discipline.

• GCSE maths- minimum grade C



English Language Requirements

English language requirements for international applicants

The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.



Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.



• For English language requirements go to: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/global/apply/english-language-requirements



• For Your country go to: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/global/apply/country



Exemptions and transferability

Students can apply for exemptions for specific modules based on prior learning

Your Application

You can apply directly to Ulster at any time of year. We advise that you submit your application no later than two weeks prior to your course start date. This is to ensure there is sufficient time for your application to be reviewed and, should you be made an offer, time for you to complete all the necessary pre-enrolment tasks.



Some programmes will have specific deadlines as additional selection (e.g. interview, portfolio submission etc) is required, so please check the course page to ensure you have sufficient time to complete your application.

Part-time.

Start Date: September 2026 & January 2027.

Careers and Opportunities

Upon successful completion of the programme students will be more employable, particularly within the medical device, pharma and biotechnology sectors. Another important opportunity for MSc students is the academic career and/or research career through a PhD programme such as those offered within the School.