Masters in Biomedical Engineering in USA: Top Universities

A Master's in Biomedical Engineering in the USA is a valuable investment in a high-demand career, positioning you at the forefront of medical innovation.

The biomedical engineering field in the U.S. is growing. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports 19,700 jobs and projects a 7% growth rate through 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. 

This growth contributes to the approximately 1,400 job openings projected each year, which accounts for both new positions and roles that open as workers retire or change careers. A Masters in Biomedical Engineering in the USA prepares you for these opportunities, which offer a median salary of $106,950 (INR 92.18L) per year. 

This guide details top-ranked programs, costs, scholarships, and career options to help you plan your professional future.

Masters in Biomedical Engineering in USA: Overview

A Masters in Biomedical Engineering in USA is a 1.5 to 2-year program where you will develop expertise in areas like bioinstrumentation, biomaterials, and biomechanics. 

The degree prepares you for specialized roles such as Medical Device Designer, Research Scientist, or Clinical Engineer within the country’s leading biotechnology and healthcare industries.

The following table summarizes the key program details for a Masters in Biomedical Engineering in USA.

Note: The fee mentioned above is an approximation. Actual costs may vary based on the university and currency exchange rates.

Now, let’s discuss the advantages of pursuing this degree in the United States.

Why Pursue a Master's in Biomedical Engineering in USA?

The United States offers a unique combination of high-quality education, research funding, and industry integration. With the market projected to reach nearly $835.4 billion (INR 71.66 Cr) by 2034, the field is expanding rapidly, creating a high demand for skilled professionals. 

Here are the key benefits of pursuing a masters in biomedical engineering in USA.

• Leadership in Research and Innovation: The U.S. leads globally in biomedical research, with NIH funding exceeding $47 billion annually. Top universities like Johns Hopkins and Massachusetts Institute of Technology offer hands-on research that drives real-world medical innovations.
• Hubs of Industry Integration: Programs in areas like Boston and California offer direct exposure to biotech and medical device industries (e.g., Moderna, Boston Scientific), enhancing internship and networking opportunities.
• Strong Industry Connections: Being near industry hubs in California, Massachusetts, and Minnesota connects students with top employers like Medtronic and Johnson & Johnson, boosting job prospects post-graduation.
• Post-Study Work Opportunities: Biomedical Engineering qualifies for STEM OPT, allowing up to three years of U.S. work experience, ideal for building a global career after graduation.
• Diverse Specialization Options: U.S. universities offer specializations such as computational biology, medical imaging, and rehabilitation engineering, allowing students to tailor studies to career goals.

After reviewing these benefits, let's examine the top universities offering this program.

Top Universities Offering Masters in Biomedical Engineering in USA

In the United States, a Master's in Biomedical Engineering is mainly available as a research-oriented Master of Science (M.S.). Johns Hopkins is the top academic recipient of federal research funding in the U.S., receiving over $362 million from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) directly supporting its extensive biomedical research programs. 

The table below details some leading universities for a Masters in Biomedical Engineering in USA.

Note: Fees are approximations for full-time graduate engineering programs and can vary.

After exploring the top universities offering a Master's in Biomedical Engineering, let’s examine the eligibility criteria for applying.

Popular Universities to Study Masters in Biomedical Engineering in USA

Beyond the highest-ranked institutions, other leading universities offer exceptional programs by leveraging unique research strengths and strategic locations within major U.S. innovation hubs. 

For instance, Duke University's program is distinguished by its Coulter Translational Partnership, a program dedicated to moving academic research into clinical practice. The University of Michigan--Ann Arbor offers extensive clinical immersion through its direct partnership with Michigan Medicine.

The table below lists these top universities, including their program details and application deadlines for the Fall 2025 intake.

Note: Fees are approximations and can vary. Deadlines are for the Fall 2025 intake and are subject to change; always confirm on the official university website.

After examining the leading universities that offer a Master's in Biomedical Engineering, you will now review the application eligibility requirements.

Eligibility Criteria for Masters in Biomedical Engineering in USA

Meeting the eligibility criteria is the first step to securing admission. To pursue a Master's degree in Biomedical Engineering in the United States, you will typically require a good academic foundation in engineering or a related subject.

Additionally, you must provide proof of English proficiency and specific documents for your student visa application. 

The following table details the key eligibility requirements for a Masters in Biomedical Engineering in USA.

Note: Financial figures are approximations and subject to change. Always verify requirements on the official university and government websites.

After reviewing the prerequisites for admission to the Master of Biomedical Engineering program in the United States, let's look at the application procedure.

Application Process for Masters in Biomedical Engineering in USA

Gaining admission to a top Masters in Biomedical Engineering program in USA is highly competitive. The graduate programs at top engineering institutions have very low acceptance rates. 

For instance, Stanford has an acceptance rate of 5%, while MIT has an acceptance rate of 4.0%. The most competitive departments are even more selective. 

To build a strong application, you must follow a structured process, ensuring all documents are submitted correctly and on time. 

Below are the key steps to apply for a Masters in Biomedical Engineering in USA.

• Step 1: Complete and Submit the University Application
  Fill out the online application form on the university's graduate admissions portal. You must upload all required documents before the specified deadline, typically between December and February for the Fall intake. Key documents include:
  • Official Academic Transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP) tailored to the program's research focus
  • 2-3 Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
  • Updated Resume or CV
  • GRE and English proficiency scores (if required)
• Step 2: Attend an Admissions Interview (If Invited)
  Some top M.S. programs or research tracks may require an interview. Be ready to discuss your academics, research interests, CV projects, and motivation for choosing the program.
• Step 3: Receive Admission Decision and Form I-20
  After reviewing your application, the university will release its decision via the application portal. If accepted, you must formally accept the offer and pay a deposit to secure your place. The university will then process and issue the Form I-20.
• Step 4: Apply for the F-1 Student Visa
  Once you receive the Form I-20, you can begin the U.S. student visa process. This involves three main parts:
  • Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee ($350) (INR 30,013).
  • Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160).
  • Schedule and attend a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. Bring your I-20, DS-160 confirmation, financial proof, and any other supporting documents.
• Step 5: Prepare for Your Studies
  Once your visa is approved, finalize travel, housing, and university pre-arrival requirements.

A Master's in Biomedical Engineering will equip you with advanced skills in the field. Let’s take a closer look at the details of the program.

Masters in Biomedical Engineering in USA: Course Details

A Masters in Biomedical Engineering in USA covers essential subjects such as biomaterials and biomechanics. 

This program allows you to develop practical skills in medical implant design and physiological modeling. Beyond these fundamentals, you can specialize in advanced fields like neural engineering or drug delivery. 

The table below outlines the typical course structure for a Masters in Biomedical Engineering in USA.

Now that you’ve explored the courses and specializations, let’s discuss the costs of studying for a Master's in Biomedical Engineering in USA.

Cost of Pursuing Masters in Biomedical Engineering in USA

The cost of studying in the USA depends heavily on the type of university. For public universities, international students pay "out-of-state" tuition, which is significantly higher than the rate for residents. Private universities generally have a single, higher tuition rate for all students.

For a Master's in Biomedical Engineering, annual tuition fees typically range from $30,000 (INR 25.2L) to $70,265 (INR 59L) at top private institutions. Here’s an estimated breakdown of monthly expenses.

Note: These figures are approximate and can vary based on the university, location, and personal lifestyle choices.

Managing the cost of study in the USA can be a key concern. However, you can apply for various scholarships and assistantships to make your education more affordable. Let’s explore the details.

Masters in Biomedical Engineering in USA: Scholarships for Students

Most top U.S. universities, like Johns Hopkins, offer financial aid to a significant percentage of their admitted graduate students through fellowships, assistantships, and scholarships. These awards can reduce your tuition costs by 25% to 67%, helping you manage the financial investment of a Masters in Biomedical Engineering in USA.

Below is a breakdown of internal and external scholarships available for Indian students.

Internal Scholarships

Internal scholarships are funded directly by the university's engineering department or graduate school. For a master's in Biomedical Engineering, you can apply for merit-based fellowships often awarded automatically during admissions. 

For example, the Duke University Pratt School of Engineering offers departmental scholarships that provide partial tuition support to outstanding master's applicants.

Here are some top internal scholarship opportunities.

Now, let’s explore some external scholarship options for students pursuing a Masters in Biomedical Engineering in USA.

External Scholarships

External scholarships are funded by government bodies, private foundations, and professional organizations. You can apply for awards like the Whitaker International Program, which is specifically designed for emerging leaders in biomedical engineering. 

Below are some prominent external scholarship options.

After a detailed look at how to get scholarships, let’s explore the job opportunities available for graduates with a Masters in Biomedical Engineering in USA.

Job Opportunities After Masters in Biomedical Engineering in USA

A Master's in Biomedical Engineering in the USA might result in higher beginning salary and more specialized employment than a bachelor's.

Graduates are ready for jobs in the rapidly expanding biotechnology, AI in Pharmaceutical, and medical technology sectors as research scientists, quality engineers, or regulatory affairs professionals.

The following table showcases job positions for graduates of Masters in Biomedical Engineering in the USA.

Source: Glassdoor

Note: Salaries are national averages and can vary based on location, experience, and company.

Now, let’s examine the top recruiters who hire graduates with a Master's in Biomedical Engineering.

Top Recruiters for Masters in Biomedical Engineering Graduates

With leading rivals like Medtronic, Johnson & Johnson, and Boston Scientific, the United States leads the world in pharmaceuticals and medical technology.

After your Master's, you can join leading firms like Medtronic as an R&D Engineer or Johnson & Johnson as a Quality Engineer, contributing to next-generation concepts such as AI in healthcare solutions.

Here are some of the top recruiters hiring graduates in the USA.

Source: Glassdoor 

Note: Salaries are estimates for these roles at these companies and can vary.

Now that we've examined possible job roles, let’s explore how upGrad can help you pursue a Master's in Biomedical Engineering in the USA.

How upGrad can Help You Study Masters in Biomedical Engineering in USA?

A Master’s in Biomedical Engineering in the USA can be challenging due to tough competition, visa procedures, and financial planning. 

upGrad helps simplify the process by guiding you through university selection, SOP and LOR preparation, and providing support for scholarships and visas. This makes your application journey smoother and more confident.

Ready to start your journey? Book a free 1:1 counseling session with an upGrad expert to build a strong application and begin your Master's journey in the USA with confidence.