Why study this program?
The Department of Biomedical Engineering helps students develop the skills they need to shape the future of health-care. Students enroll in specialized course-based or research-based programs leading to one of three graduate degrees: a course-based master of science (MSc), a thesis-based master of science (MSc), or a doctor of philosophy (PhD). Students already accepted into the University of Alberta’s doctor of medicine (MD program) can complete a combined MD/PhD or MD/MSc in biomedical engineering.
Biomedical Engineering graduate students have the opportunity to work with an advisor with a primary appointment or cross-appointment in Biomedical Engineering. The general research fields include bionics and biorobotics, biomedical imaging, biomechanics, and precision health design.
Entrance Requirements
The Department’s minimum admission requirements are an undergraduate degree with a grade point average of at least 3.3 in the last two years of undergraduate work (or graduate work) at the University of Alberta, or an equivalent qualification from another institution, and a TOEFL score of 95 for tests written before January 21, 2026; a TOEFL score of 5 for tests written on or after January 21, 2026; or equivalent on the internet-based test where applicable (refer to English Language Requirement).
Program Requirements
The MSc in Biomedical Engineering may be taken as a thesis-based program or a course-based program.
Thesis-based MSc
The requirements for this degree consist of coursework and a thesis. Required courses depend on the undergraduate background of the student; however, a minimum of 9 units in graduate courses must be completed. The courses are determined by the student’s supervisory committee and are relevant to the chosen area of research. Undergraduate courses taken for graduate credit carry only half the course weight assigned to that course.
The minimum period of residence is two four-month terms of full-time attendance at the University of Alberta.
Course-based MSc
Students are required to complete a minimum of eight 3-unit graduate courses (24.0 units) plus one 2-unit graduate seminar course and one 3-unit capstone project. Additional coursework may be required.
Ethics & Academic Citizenship Requirement
Students must meet the GPS Ethics and Academic Citizenship Requirement through the completion of INT D 710 (for both master’s and doctoral students) and INT D 720 (for doctoral students) by the end of the first term of registration in their degree program.
Length of Program
For the thesis-based program, the time required to complete the program will vary according to the previous training of the applicant and the nature of research undertaken; however, a minimum of two years is normally required.
For the course-based program, it is expected that the program can be completed within 18 to 24 months.
Courses
Graduate courses can be found in Course Listings, under the subject heading Biomedical Engineering (BME). Students may also choose appropriate graduate courses from many other departments and faculties.
Financial assistance is available on a competitive basis in the form of research assistantships, teaching assistantships, scholarships and a variety of awards administered by the University and affiliated institutions. Details are found at www.gradstudies.ualberta.ca.
For general information, please visit the Tuition and Fees page on the Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies site.The Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies administers over $35 million each year in scholarships, awards, and financial support for graduate students. Opportunities vary by faculty.
Please note: there are limited funding opportunities available to students pursuing part-time graduate studies or those completing a certificate program.
Please refer to the detailed program information or email bmegrad@ualberta.ca.
General inquiriesPlease check out some of our most frequently asked questions (FAQS) to see if your question has been answered, or contact the Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies (GPS) during our office hours.
Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies (GPS)
Killam Centre for Advanced Studies
2-29 Triffo Hall
University of Alberta
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E1