Bioengineering MSE program

Goal and Philosophy
The MSE curriculum provides training in engineering with focuses on biological and medical sciences. The program provides education in scientific and engineering fundamentals and current updates in the field of Bioengineering. The fundamental goal of Penn Bioengineering is to provide students with a broad, flexible curriculum that gives them experience with a wide range of subject areas and intellectual approaches, to prepare them to function creatively and independently in a diverse range of settings.
The MSE degree program meets the need for rigorous and advanced training beyond the typical four-year engineering program.

This is a terminal degree program. Students interested in continuing to pursue a Ph.D. must participate in the annual Ph.D. Graduate Admissions process.

The MSE degree in Bioengineering is intended to provide students with a solid foundation in the principles of bioengineering as preparation for careers in industry, research and development, government and academia. The program requires 10 course units and offers a Master's thesis option.

Requirements for degree completion:

Thesis Option

1 Math course (1 cu)

2 Biological science courses (Students may select from BE 513, Cell and Molecular Biology (CAMB) courses or Biology courses) (2 cu)

2 Bioengineering graduate electives (must be BE courses) (2 cu)

1 Technical elective course from any science or engineering discipline (1cu)

2 Units of science and engineering electives

2 Units of thesis research (BE 999) (2 cu)

10 cu total (all courses must be 500 level or above)

Students will focus on an area of bioenginering that interests them. If the student chooses the thesis option, the student’s thesis advisor may provide additional guidance on course selection, and will supervise the student’s thesis research.  The Director of the Bioengineering MSE Program will provide students assistance with finding a mentor.  Traditionally mentors are selected from the Bioengineering Graduate Group.

Bioengineering Master's Thesis Guidelines

Non-Thesis Option

1 Math course (1 cu)

2 Biological science courses (Students may select from BE 513, Cell and Molecular Biology (CAMB) courses or Biology courses) (2 cu)

2 Bioengineering graduate electives (must be BE courses) (2 cu)

1 Technical elective course from any science or engineering discipline (1 cu)

4 science and engineering electives of which 2 may be independent study (BE 899) (4 cus)

10 cu total (all courses must be 500 level or above)

The Director of the Bioengineering MSE Program assists each student to develop a program of study for the fall and spring semester of their first year. 

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Course Planning Guide

The Course Planning Guide will help current MSE students to select courses that will lead to the successful completion of the program. The CPG should be used for both the thesis and non-thesis program options.  All current students should complete the CPG and return it to the Graduate Coordinator's office, 240 Skirkanich Hall before registration for their first semester.

For more information please see our MSE Student Handbook.

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Financial Assistance

It is well known that the cost of a graduate or professional education today is a major investment for most students and their families. The University of Pennsylvania understands this, and is committed to making a Penn education accessible for all talented and qualified students.   Extremely limited internal funding opportunities are available for Master’s degree candidates.  Master’s candidates are typically NOT provided fellowship or research support.  You should not count on getting financial assistance, beyond loans, if you join our department as a BE MSE student.

For up to date information on financing your graduate education please visit the Student Financial Services web page at: Here you will find information on financial aid including loans, scholarships, grants and fellowships.

Graduate Admissions

To complete an online application for Spring 2008 Apply Online Spring 2008

To complete an online application for Fall 2008 Apply Online Fall 2008

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Helpful sites for new students:

Office of the University Registrar

The Course Register provides a description of the courses offered at the University.

Graduate Student Housing

Graduate Student Center

If you have questions about the Masters program please contact

Kathleen Venit, Graduate Coordinator

Department of Bioengineering
School of Engineering and Applied Science
University of Pennsylvania
210 S. 33rd Street
Room 240 Skirkanich Hall
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Phone No.: (215) 898-8501
Fax No.: (215) 573-2071
beoffice@seas.upenn.edu

Send Comments and Suggestions to:
beweb@seas.upenn.edu