Technology is making big advancements in improving our health and quality of life, and experienced biomedical engineers play an important role in this endeavor. With a PhD in Biomedical Engineering, you can contribute significantly to these advancements while earning an excellent salary.
Schools with the best PhDs in Biomedical Engineering prepare their graduates for high-paying career opportunities in technology, engineering, and research. This article takes a deep dive into the top PhD programs in this field and the schools that offer them and provides a look at the best biomedical engineering jobs and what to expect from a PhD in Biomedical Engineering salary.
What Is a PhD in Biomedical Engineering?
A PhD in Biomedical Engineering is a terminal degree offered by institutions of higher education to students who complete the program requirements. The degree program takes about four to five years to complete and teaches students how to develop and produce devices that are useful in the healthcare industry. Like all doctorates, advanced coursework is required along with a substantial amount of research.
With this degree, you will be eligible for jobs in the public and private sectors and at high-level research and academic institutions. A biomedical engineering doctorate provides you with advanced skills and knowledge that make you very employable. It also opens the door to a successful career in academia.
How to Get Into a Biomedical Engineering PhD Program: Admission Requirements
The admission requirements to get into a biomedical engineering PhD program typically include having a bachelor’s or master’s degree, meeting a minimum GPA requirement, and having knowledge of advanced mathematics and an understanding of biomedical sciences.
You will have an easier time gaining admittance into a biomedical engineering PhD program if you have a solid background in science, mathematics, and engineering. Some other common requirements for admission include letters of recommendation, standardized test scores, and a resume or CV.
PhD in Biomedical Engineering Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree
- Minimum GPA
- Knowledge of science and engineering subjects
- Standardized test scores
- Letters of recommendation
Biomedical Engineering PhD Acceptance Rates: How Hard Is It to Get Into a PhD Program in Biomedical Engineering?
It is not very hard to get into a PhD program in biomedical engineering as long as you meet all of the admission requirements. That said, these requirements are numerous and meeting them requires years of study in relevant subjects.
However, if you have a high GPA in your undergraduate degree and have a strong engineering background, getting into a postgraduate biomedical engineering program shouldn’t be a problem. Some schools have stricter admission guidelines than others, so make sure that you are able to meet the specific program requirements before applying.
How to Get Into the Best Universities
[query_class_embed] how-to-get-into-*school
Best PhDs in Biomedical Engineering: In Brief
| School | Program | Online Option |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | PhD in Biomedical Engineering | No |
| Carnegie Mellon University | PhD in Biomedical Engineering | No |
| Duke University | PhD in Biomedical Engineering | No |
| Johns Hopkins University | PhD in Biomedical Engineering | No |
| Rowan University | PhD in Biomedical Engineering | No |
| Syracuse University | PhD in Bioengineering | No |
| University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | PhD in Bioengineering | No |
| University of North Dakota | PhD in Biomedical Engineering | Yes |
| The University of Texas at San Antonio | PhD in Biomedical Engineering | No |
| University of Wisconsin Madison | PhD in Biomedical Engineering | No |
Best Universities for Biomedical Engineering PhDs: Where to Get a PhD in Biomedical Engineering
The best universities for biomedical engineering PhDs include Arizona State University, Carnegie Mellon University, Johns Hopkins University, and the University of North Dakota. All of the schools that made our list are accredited and offer strong biomedical engineering programs. We’ve provided key details about each school and program for comparative purposes.
Can You Get a PhD in Biomedical Engineering Online?
Yes, you can get a PhD in Biomedical Engineering online, but you may have to complete some of the requirements on campus. The online format makes it possible for students to complete coursework and conduct research from just about anywhere, while still having the support of faculty. Below are some of the schools that offer this degree program or a related mostly online.
Best Online PhD Programs in Biomedical Engineering
| School | Program | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Columbia University | PhD in Mechanical Engineering | Maximum 7 years |
| Northcentral University | Online PhD in Technology Management | 3+ years |
| University of Alabama | PhD in Mechanical Engineering | 4 years |
| University of Alabama at Birmingham | PhD in Interdisciplinary Engineering | 7 years |
| University of North Dakota | PhD in Biomedical Engineering | 3+ years |
How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Biomedical Engineering?
It takes about three to five years to get a PhD in Biomedical Engineering. This duration can vary due to the program itself as well as the speed at which you complete your work. The format may limit the number of credit hours you can take per semester and your research may be more or less in-depth than others.
Four years of full-time study is usually enough to complete your doctorate. Carefully research your graduate school and program of choice so that you will know if they can match your preferred timeline for completing the degree.
Is a PhD in Biomedical Engineering Hard?
A PhD in Biomedical Engineering will be easy for students who have excelled so far in their postsecondary education in biomedical engineering and related fields. If you’re pursuing a degree at the PhD level, you probably already have a passion for the particular field of study, which will make completing the program easier.
However, if you have struggled with your education so far in biomedical engineering, a PhD in Biomedical Engineering will be hard. Doctoral degrees also require a lot of advanced research skills as well as the ability to make sense of your research findings and communicate them to colleagues. Overall, the more education you have in science and engineering going in, the easier the PhD will be.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a PhD in Biomedical Engineering?
It costs an average of $19,314 per year to get a PhD in Biomedical Engineering, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. This number represents the average annual tuition and fees charged by all universities. The average cost of tuition and fees for public universities is $12,171 per year.
Tuition and fees cost $25,929 per year, on average, at private universities, with private for-profit schools charging $14,208 per year and private nonprofit schools charging an average of $27,776 per year.
How to Pay for a PhD in Biomedical Engineering: PhD Funding Options
The PhD funding options that students can use to pay for a PhD in Biomedical Engineering include teaching assistantships, research assistantships, research fellowships, scholarships, grants, stipends, and tuition fee waivers. Every university has a different policy regarding PhD funding, with some providing full coverage of costs for part or all of the program.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
[query_class_embed] online-*subject-masters-degrees
What Is the Difference Between a Biomedical Engineering Master’s Degree and a PhD?
The difference between a biomedical engineering master’s degree and a PhD is the duration of the program and the education provided. A Master’s Degree in Biomedical Engineering usually takes one to two years to complete. The requirements of the PhD program take longer to complete, usually three to five years.
A PhD in Biomedical Engineering is a research-based study program, whereas a master’s degree focuses mainly on coursework. Master’s degrees often allow students to select between thesis and non-thesis options. A PhD will require you to propose a dissertation topic, do considerable dissertation research, and then write the dissertation and defend it.
Master’s vs PhD in Biomedical Engineering Job Outlook
The job outlook for a biomedical engineering master’s degree holder varies slightly from that of a PhD holder, with the latter having more opportunities. PhD holders can access the same opportunities as master’s degree holders, in addition to opportunities in high-level research and education.
Positions like design engineer, quality assurance engineer, and product development engineer require a Master’s Degree in Biomedical Engineering but are also available to PhD holders. Positions such as data scientist, research scientist, and postsecondary teacher are usually only open to those with a PhD in Biomedical Engineering.
Difference in Salary for Biomedical Engineering Master’s vs PhD
There is a significant difference in salary for biomedical engineering master’s and PhD degrees. The level of qualification is one of the most significant factors affecting your salary. According to PayScale, the average salary for someone with a Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering is $80,000.
A PhD in Biomedical Engineering represents the highest level of education in this field, and the corresponding salary for this degree is $102,000 on average, as reported by PayScale. You may earn more or less than these average salaries, depending on factors such as your level of expertise and experience and the job position itself.
Related Biomedical Engineering Degrees
[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/best-biomedical-engineering-bachelors-degrees/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/best-biomedical-engineering-masters-degrees/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/best-biomedical-engineering-associate-degrees/
Why You Should Get a PhD in Biomedical Engineering
You should get a PhD in Biomedical Engineering because it opens the door to job opportunities that pay well and are in high demand. In fact, the highest-paying jobs in the field of biomedical engineering that require a doctorate are largely projected to grow at a faster rate than other jobs in the US over the next several years, as we’ll discuss in detail in the next section.
Reasons for Getting a PhD in Biomedical Engineering
- Better job opportunities. If you want to advance in your career and explore better career options, a PhD in Biomedical Engineering will help. Having a postgraduate degree gives you an advantage in landing the best jobs at biotech companies, for example.
- Higher salaries. The average salary for a PhD holder is higher than it is for those with an undergraduate degree or even a master’s degree. You can expect to make a six-figure salary, or close to it, with a PhD.
- Increased research opportunities. A PhD in Biomedical Engineering is a research-based program that provides you with opportunities to build and strengthen your research skills and explore new knowledge. You will likely get the opportunity to work with top researchers in the field while pursuing your degree.
- Advanced knowledge in a growing field. Continuing your education in biomedical engineering by getting a PhD provides you with access to the latest science, technology, and developments in the field. You will learn about emerging technologies and their applications to make a difference in the healthcare industry.
Getting a PhD in Biomedical Engineering: Biomedical Engineering PhD Coursework
Coursework is a crucial component of earning a PhD in Biomedical Engineering. Students will be required to complete core science and engineering courses, such as introduction to biochemistry, biomedical imaging, and biomaterials engineering, as well as elective courses like mechanobiology and engineering optimization. Following is a short description of these courses.
Introduction to Biochemistry
This course involves the combined study of biology and chemistry. You will study the impact that biochemicals have on living beings and how this can help you improve healthcare for people. Chemical reactions and the action of enzymes are also the subject matter of this course.
Biomedical Imaging
In this course, you will study the medical technologies used in the diagnosis and analysis of abnormalities in the human body. The most popular medical-imaging technologies covered in this course include computerized tomography (CT) scan, ultrasound, positron emission tomography (PET) scan, and others.
Biomaterials Engineering
This course involves the study of biomaterials such as metals and polymers and how the fundamentals of engineering can be applied to these materials to solve health and quality-of-life issues for humans. The concepts taught in this course have real-world applications in the design and testing of health products and systems.
Introduction to Mechanobiology
This course deals with the study of the relationship between mechanical forces and living systems, or how living systems respond to different mechanical forces. This relationship plays a significant role in research regarding the development of life-saving medicines.
Engineering Optimization
This course teaches engineering optimization techniques, methods, and models used in the design of products and technologies that have specific restraints or criteria. It helps students develop the essential skills required for complex problem-solving to arrive at the best result.
Best Master’s Degrees
[query_class_embed] *subject-masters-degrees
How to Get a PhD in Biomedical Engineering: Doctoral Program Requirements
To get a PhD in Biomedical Engineering, you have to meet all of the degree requirements set by the school in the time allotted. Some of these requirements include completing advanced coursework, maintaining a minimum GPA in your coursework, achieving residency, conducting original research for a thesis, and writing and defending the thesis.
Potential Careers With a Biomedical Engineering Degree
[query_class_embed] how-to-become-a-*profession
PhD in Biomedical Engineering Salary and Job Outlook
A PhD in Biomedical Engineering can help you achieve a successful career. It is not unusual for PhD holders in this field to make more than $100,000 per year in positions that have positive job outlooks. There is strong growth projected in the coming years for many of the highest-paying positions in biomedical engineering.
What Can You Do With a PhD in Biomedical Engineering?
With a PhD in Biomedical Engineering, you can pursue a career in the world of academia as a professor or researcher. You might even achieve status as a leader in the industry with the discovery of a medical breakthrough. Other jobs you might consider include medical scientist, consultant, or technician.
Best Jobs with a PhD in Biomedical Engineering
- Postsecondary Teacher
- Research Consultant
- Biomedical Engineer
- Medical Scientist
- Biomedical Researcher
What Is the Average Salary for a PhD in Biomedical Engineering?
The average salary for someone with a PhD in Biomedical Engineering is $102,000, as determined by PayScale. Your actual salary will depend on a number of factors, including your level of experience and the organization you are working for. Some popular companies hiring biomedical engineers are Philips Research, Johnson & Johnson, United Therapeutics Corporation, and Boston Scientific Corporation.
Highest-Paying Biomedical Engineering Jobs for PhD Grads
| Biomedical Engineering PhD Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Biomedical Engineer | $97,410 |
| Medical Scientist | $95,310 |
| Mechanical Engineer | $95,300 |
| Postsecondary Teacher | $79,640 |
| Forensic Science Technician | $61,930 |
Best Biomedical Engineering Jobs with a Doctorate
You can get some of the best biomedical engineering jobs with a doctorate. Many of these jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree at entry-level, and having a doctorate increases your odds of beating the competition. It also strengthens your earning potential. Following are some of the highest-paying jobs for a PhD holder in biomedical engineering.
Is a PhD in Biomedical Engineering Worth It?
Yes, a PhD in Biomedical Engineering is worth it. The doctoral degree allows you to specialize in biomedical engineering and become an expert in the field through advanced coursework and in-depth research into a particular area of interest.
From a career perspective, it allows you to pursue the highest-paying and most in-demand engineering careers. Some of the most prestigious companies and institutions, such as NASA, hire biomedical engineers. You can also conduct your own industry-leading research with the opportunity to make breakthroughs in the field.
Additional Reading About Biomedical Engineering
[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/jobs-for-biomedical-engineering-majors/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/best-schools-for-biomedical-engineering/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/online-biomedical-engineering-masters/
PhD in Biomedical Engineering FAQ
To gain admission into a good PhD in Biomedical Engineering program, you must be able to meet the admission requirements, such as having a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. Having a high GPA in your college coursework is helpful, as are having a background in the field and scoring high on standardized tests like the GRE. Review the application process closely before getting started.
Yes, accredited PhD programs are more valued than non-accredited ones. Accreditation validates the quality of education the program provides. This helps pave the way for better career and education opportunities in the future.
Yes, earning a PhD in Biomedical Engineering is a good continuing education option. It deepens your knowledge of the field and helps you build advanced scientific research skills. You might even have the opportunity to make a contribution to the field of biomedical engineering through your research.
No, you can’t get a PhD in Biomedical Engineering without completing your thesis. This is one of the most crucial degree requirements for a doctorate. In addition to writing your thesis, you must also defend it successfully in order to be awarded the degree.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
