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.

F/T Programme

Year one

Advanced biomaterials for biomedical applications

Medical Device Development

Bioinstrumentation

Tissue Engineering

Research Methods and Management



Optional:

Digital Signal Processing

Micro- & Nano-Scale Devices

Entrepreneurship and Innovation Engineering

Intelligent Manufacturing

Manufacturing systems

Quality Improvement

Research Project

Work based learning

Polymer Technology

Composite Engineering

Masters Dissertation



Year two

Optional:

Applied Research



P/T Programme

Year one

Advanced biomaterials for biomedical applications

Medical Device Development

Bioinstrumentation

Tissue Engineering



Year two

Research Methods and Management



Optional:

Digital Signal Processing

Micro- & Nano-Scale Devices

Entrepreneurship and Innovation Engineering

Intelligent Manufacturing

Manufacturing systems

Quality Improvement

Research Project

Work based learning

Polymer Technology

Composite Engineering



Year three

Masters Dissertation

PgDip - Normally, an Honours or non-Honours degree or postgraduate diploma/certificate in a relevant engineering, technology or science discipline. In exceptional circumstances, where an individual has substantial and significant working/industrial experience, a portfolio of written evidence may be considered as an alternative entrance route. It is possible to transfer onto the MSc version of the course after successfully completing the PGDip.



MSc - Specific details on the admission criteria can be found at the course webpage provided below. Normally, a second class honours degree or better in a relevant engineering, science, physics or technology discipline. Or a postgraduate diploma/certificate in a relevant engineering or technology discipline. In exceptional circumstances, where an individual has substantial and significant working/industrial experience, a portfolio of written evidence may be considered as an alternative entrance route.



Note: This course is currently in the process of renewing its Professional Body Accreditation. It is possible that there will be some changes to the course as described.



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.

The full-time MSc takes one calendar year to complete and consists of two taught terms with a substantial research project during the summer semester. The MSc can also be undertaken in a part-time day release mode.



Part-time students who are in full-time employment will be able to gain credit for work-based activity in the work-based learning modules that are a feature of the programme.

Start Date: September 2026 & January 2027.

Careers and Opportunities

Upon successful completion of the programme students will be more employable within the industry, or in an academic and/or research career through a PhD programme, such as those offered by the School through our Nanotechnology and Integrated Bioengineering Centre (NIBEC).