
Ulster University - Belfast
Biomedical Engineering
The course draws upon the internationally recognised research within the School of Engineering in areas such as Tissue Engineering, Bioceramics, Medical Devices, Digital Health, Point-of-Care Health Diagnostic, Cardiac Resuscitation Technology, Therapeutic Devices, Smart Medical Sensors and Drug Delivery Technology.
Core modules include biomaterials, tissue engineering, bioinstrumentation and medical device development. The course team has a wealth of industrial experience, and several medical device spin-out companies have been established by the School of Engineering.
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 UK top 20 (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.
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.
Work placement / study abroad
Part-time students can undertake work based learning modules.
Professional recognition
Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)
Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
Revalidation
The University regularly ‘refreshes’ courses to make sure they are as up-to-date as possible.
In addition it undertakes formal periodic review of courses in a process called 'revalidation’ to ensure that they continue to meet standards and are current and relevant.
This course will be revalidated in the near future and it is possible that there will be some changes to the course as described in this prospectus.
Subjects taught
Year one
• Advanced biomaterials for biomedical applications
• Medical Device Development
• Bioinstrumentation
• Tissue Engineering
• Research Methods and Management
Optional Moduels
• Digital Signal Processing
• Micro- & Nano-Scale Devices
• Entrepreneurship and Innovation Engineering
• Intelligent Manufacturing
• Advanced Manufacturing systems
• Quality Improvement
• Research Project
• Work based learning
• Polymer Technology
• Composite Engineering
• Masters Dissertation
Year two
• Applied Research
This module is optional
Entry requirements
Entry Requirements
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.
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.
Duration
Full-time & Part-time
Enrolment dates
Start dates:
September 2025
January 2026
Post Course Info
Career options
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).
More details
Qualification letters
MSc/PGDip/PGCert
Qualifications
Degree - Masters at UK Level 7,Postgraduate Diploma at UK Level 7,Postgraduate Certificate at UK Level 7
Attendance type
Full time,Part time,Daytime
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Course provider