MSc Biomedical Engineering

The MSc Biomedical Engineering at the University of Exeter is designed to give you practical experience alongside advanced academic learning. Throughout the programme, you'll apply engineering principles to real healthcare challenges through research projects, computer simulations, laboratory work and an independent dissertation. You'll learn in a multidisciplinary environment, working with specialist equipment and industry-standard technologies while benefiting from the University's world-class engineering and biomedical research facilities.

You'll develop hands-on skills through a range of practical experiences, including:

• Build practical experience through computer simulations, engineering project work, case studies and an independent MSc dissertation focused on a real biomedical engineering challenge.

• Learn from research-active academics and industry professionals, gaining insight into the latest advances in biomedical engineering and healthcare technology.

• Access the Biomedical Engineering Research Laboratory, featuring tissue preparation and storage facilities, biological safety cabinets, CO₂ incubators, autoclaves and specialist biomedical testing equipment.

• Use advanced research equipment including Instron ElectroPuls dynamic testing systems, Qualisys motion capture technology, fibre-optic pressure transducers and ADPM Opal wearable sensors for biomechanics and medical device research.

• Gain experience with industry-standard software such as Abaqus and ScanIP+FE for finite element analysis, computational modelling and medical image processing.

• Complete an independent research dissertation, allowing you to investigate a real biomedical engineering problem while developing advanced research and analytical skills.

• Study in a collaborative environment that brings together expertise from Engineering, Physics and Astronomy, Mathematics, and Public Health and Sports Sciences.

• Benefit from the University's wider engineering facilities, including imaging suites, electronics laboratories, fabrication laboratories, materials laboratories and specialist engineering research spaces.

• Explore opportunities within leading research centres, including the Living Systems Institute, NIHR Exeter Biomedical Research Centre, and the University's advanced bioimaging facilities.

• Receive dedicated academic and professional support through a Personal Tutor, a Postgraduate Tutor, and mentoring from graduates working across engineering and healthcare industries.

The MSc Biomedical Engineering at the University of Exeter prepares graduates for exciting careers in healthcare technology by combining engineering knowledge, medical science and practical research skills. With expertise in areas such as biomedical design, biomechanics, wearable technologies and computational modelling, graduates can pursue opportunities in medical technology companies, research organisations, healthcare innovation and engineering industries. Typical career roles include Biomedical Engineer, Medical Device Engineer, Healthcare Technology Specialist, Research and Development Engineer, and Clinical Engineer.

The programme supports your transition from postgraduate study into professional employment through a range of career development opportunities:

• Access support from the University of Exeter Career Zone, which provides career guidance, one-to-one advice, employability workshops, employer events, CV support and resources to help students successfully move into professional roles.

• Benefit from Exeter’s strong reputation with employers, as the university has established connections with a wide range of organisations and provides opportunities for students to engage with industry through careers events and employer activities.

• Develop industry-relevant skills through a programme designed with input from industry and focused on addressing real-world healthcare challenges, particularly in medical technology and biomedical innovation.

• Build valuable expertise in engineering design, research methods, data analysis and problem-solving, preparing you for roles across biomedical engineering, healthcare technology, consultancy, research and related sectors.

• Receive guidance from academic staff through personal tutoring and postgraduate support, helping you understand career pathways and develop the professional skills needed for future success.

• Benefit from the long-term value of professional recognition, as the programme has been developed in consultation with industry and relevant professional bodies, with accreditation from appropriate engineering organisations intended as the programme progresses.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc Biomedical Engineering, graduates can continue their studies through a PhD or doctoral research programme in areas such as biomedical engineering, biomechanics, biomaterials, medical devices, healthcare technologies or related engineering disciplines. The research experience gained through the MSc dissertation provides strong preparation for students who wish to pursue advanced research careers in universities, specialist research institutes or the medical technology sector.