Masters in Biomedical Engineering ME

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University College Dublin

Program Overview

The Master of Engineering in Biomedical Engineering at University College Dublin is a two-year, full-time graduate programme that blends engineering principles with biomedical science to tackle real-world healthcare challenges. It’s perfect for students with a strong foundation in engineering or science who want to design medical devices, work with clinical systems, and contribute to cutting-edge medical technology innovation.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Stage 1):
In the first year, you’ll build a solid foundation in core biomedical engineering concepts through modules like Medical Device Design, Biomechanics, Biomaterials, and Biomedical Signal Processing. These courses introduce you to how engineering principles apply to living systems and healthcare technologies, and you’ll gain hands-on experience in experimental design and statistics. Depending on your pathway, you may also complete a professional work experience placement, giving you practical insight into industry applications.

Year 2 (Stage 2):
In the second year, you’ll focus on specialised areas and research, beginning with a major Biomedical Engineering Project that allows you to apply analytical, design, and problem-solving skills to a real engineering problem. Core modules such as Biosensors and Actuators and Research and Professional Skills for Biomedical Engineers deepen your understanding of advanced systems and professional practice. You’ll also have the opportunity to choose optional modules like Machine Learning for Engineers, Bio-material Interactions, or Software Engineering to tailor your expertise to your interests.

Focus areas: medical device design, biomechanics, biomaterials, biomedical signal processing, biosensors and actuators, professional work experience, and project development.

Learning outcomes: graduates will be able to work independently and in multidisciplinary teams, communicate complex engineering concepts clearly, demonstrate advanced biomedical engineering knowledge, design and conduct experiments, solve complex healthcare engineering problems, and understand professional and ethical responsibilities in biomedical engineering practice.

Professional alignment (accreditation): This programme is offered at NFQ Level 9 and leads to the award of Master of Engineering, aligned with graduate-level engineering competencies and structured to meet the needs of the biomedical technology sector.

Reputation (employability rankings): UCD is one of Ireland’s leading universities with strong links to the medical technology industry. Graduates are highly sought after by leading MedTech companies such as Abbott, Boston Scientific, ResMed, and Stryker, reflecting Ireland’s position as a major hub for medical device innovation.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in UCD’s Master of Engineering in Biomedical Engineering gain hands-on experience from day one, building practical skills that go far beyond lectures and textbooks. The programme combines laboratory work, group design projects, and industry-aligned placements so you develop the confidence to solve real healthcare engineering problems. You’ll have access to UCD’s modern engineering facilities, where you can work with tools and technologies used in medical device development and testing, and the curriculum includes a structured professional work experience option that connects you directly with industry or research environments:

Experiential learning opportunities include:

Professional Work Experience: A dedicated 6–8 month industry placement in medical technology or related sectors, giving you meaningful, real-world experience in companies, research labs, or clinical settings.
Applied Laboratory Projects: You’ll apply core modules like Medical Device Design, Biomechanics, Biomaterials, and Biomedical Signal Processing in practical labs where you build and test prototypes and systems relevant to healthcare engineering.
Group Design and Research Projects: Collaborative work is integral, including your major Biomedical Engineering Project in Year 2, which mirrors professional engineering tasks and requires teamwork, problem solving, and clear communication.
Research Engagement: Opportunities to work with active research groups within the College of Engineering and Architecture on cutting-edge biomedical engineering topics, supported by faculty research expertise.
Industry Networking: Through coursework and optional activities, you’ll interact with professionals from Ireland’s vibrant medical technology ecosystem, gaining insights and connections in one of Europe’s most dynamic hubs for MedTech innovation.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of UCD’s Master of Engineering in Biomedical Engineering go on to exciting careers where they design and develop medical technologies, lead healthcare engineering projects, or pursue high-level research. Typical roles include Biomedical Design Engineer, Medical Device Development Specialist, Regulatory Compliance Engineer, and R&D Engineer in the MedTech sector — all within a dynamic, rapidly growing global industry:

What supports and opportunities help you get there:

UCD Careers Network support: Dedicated services help you prepare for the job market with one-to-one CV and interview coaching, industry networking events, and access to graduate job listings tailored to engineering graduates.
Strong employment outcomes: Around 93% of graduates move into employment or further study within six months of finishing the programme, showing how well this degree prepares you for the next step after graduation.
Industry partnerships: You’ll benefit from UCD’s links with global medical technology companies such as Abbott, Medtronic, Boston Scientific, Stryker, Pfizer, and Novartis, through internships and professional work experience embedded in the programme.
Accreditation advantage: This master’s is professionally recognised by Engineers Ireland and aligns with international standards that support chartered engineer status, boosting your credentials and long-term career mobility.
Graduate outcomes: You’ll leave with both technical expertise and practical experience, positioning you to work in the thriving Irish MedTech sector — an ecosystem that employs tens of thousands and accounts for a significant share of national medical device exports.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this master’s, you can deepen your expertise through a PhD in Biomedical Engineering or related fields, working with faculty on advanced research projects. Alternatively, you could pursue specialised postgraduate diplomas or research degrees focused on areas such as medical device regulation, clinical engineering, or bioinformatics. The programme also lays excellent groundwork for continuing professional development and lifelong learning in engineering and healthcare technology disciplines.