Bachelor's Degree (BS:BME)
The Biomechanical Engineering major provides a fundamental understanding of mechanics in fields of biology and medicine. This major is well suited for those interested in future graduate studies in bioengineering, medicine or related areas. The course of study allows students to satisfy many premedical, pre-dental, or pre-paramedical fields.
Master's Degree (MSME or MSBioE or MSE:BME)
Students interested in graduate studies in biomechanical engineering can choose one of the programs below, both of which are 45-unit courses of study.
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME)
Students who apply and are admitted to the MS in the Mechanical Engineering Department can elect to take biomechanical engineering courses as part of their requirements. These courses are usually applied towards the student’s engineering breadth or technical electives.
Master of Science in Bioengineering (MSBioE)
Students who apply and are admitted to the MS in the Bioengineering Department can elect to take biomechanical engineering courses as part of their requirements. These courses are usually applied toward the student's engineering breadth or technical electives
Master of Science in Engineering: Biomechanical Engineering (MSE:BME)
The MSE:BME program has a math and engineering depth requirement similar to the MSME degree. However, this program allows students more flexibility in taking courses in the life sciences and generally emphasizes a more interdisciplinary curriculum. The admission requirements for this degree are the same as for the MSME degree with the exception that students are also expected to have introductory undergraduate biology. If admitted to this degree program, those lacking a biology background will be required to make up the deficiency.
For information on applying to either MS program, please see the Mechanical Engineering Department or the Bioengineering Department.
Doctor of Philosophy Degree (PhD)
Students in biomechanical engineering receive their doctorate in Mechanical Engineering or Bioengineering that includes the physical and biological sciences. The PhD qualifying examinations are flexible enough to accommodate students with any master's degree preparation. Students can also apply with master's degrees from other universities.
Combined PhD/MD Degree
Students interested in a career oriented toward biomechanical research and clinical medicine can pursue the combined PhD/MD degree program.
The PhD degree is administered by the Department of Mechanical Engineering or the Department of Bioengineering. To be formally admitted as a PhD degree candidate in this combined degree program, the student must apply through normal departmental channels and must have earned an MS in Mechanical Engineering, an MS in Biomechanical Engineering, an MS in Bioengineering or a comparable master's degree. Students must pass the departmental qualifying examination and pursue a doctoral thesis in a biomechanical engineering area.
The MD degree is administered by the School of Medicine. Students must apply separately through regular channels for admission to the MD program. For further information on the MD program, consult the School of Medicine bulletin.
Further Information
For more information on the degree programs, please see the Engineering Undergraduate Handbook, ME Graduate Student Handbook, the BioE Graduate Student Handbook and the Stanford Bulletin.
