Rochester Institute of Technology

What you'll study

The programme provides a strong foundation in mathematics, physics and core engineering principles, then applies those fundamentals to biological systems and medical technologies. Early years typically cover calculus, differential equations, physics for engineers, chemistry and introductory programming alongside biology and human physiology. Upper‑division courses focus on biomedical topics such as biomechanics, biomaterials, biomedical instrumentation, medical imaging principles, signals and systems for biological applications, biofluid mechanics, tissue engineering and systems physiology.

Students undertake laboratory courses that develop wet‑lab, instrumentation and data‑analysis skills, and extensive hands‑on design work. The curriculum culminates in a capstone design sequence where teams conceive, prototype and test medical devices or diagnostic systems under faculty and industry mentorship. Electives and technical concentration options commonly include medical device design, rehabilitation engineering, computational bioengineering, biomedical optics and regulatory and quality systems for medical products.

RIT emphasises experiential learning: co‑operative education (co‑op) placements, industry internships and partnerships with hospitals and medtech companies are integral, allowing students to apply classroom learning to real projects and build professional networks.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent with strong preparation in mathematics and sciences. Typical preparation includes courses in calculus (or precalculus), physics and chemistry; biology is recommended. Admissions are competitive and favour students with a solid record in STEM subjects and evidence of analytical ability and problem‑solving.

Specific documentation required varies by applicant origin: domestic applicants follow the university's undergraduate admissions process; international applicants must present an equivalent secondary credential and proof of English language proficiency (for example recognised tests or prior instruction in English). Successful candidates may also demonstrate readiness through placement testing or by completing preparatory college coursework if needed.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for positions across the medical technology and healthcare sectors. Common roles include biomedical or clinical engineer, medical device design engineer, quality and regulatory engineer, research and development engineer, applications specialist, product development engineer and manufacturing or process engineer for medtech firms.

Many alumni also pursue graduate study in biomedical engineering, electrical or mechanical engineering, bioinformatics, physical therapy, or medicine. The combination of co‑op experience and hands‑on design training also supports careers in startups, entrepreneurship and translational research, and can be a pathway into roles in consulting, sales engineering or intellectual property related to biomedical technologies.

Why study at Rochester Institute of Technology

RIT is well known for its career‑oriented and experiential approach to engineering education. The biomedical engineering programme benefits from strong industry links in the Rochester region and beyond, an established co‑op programme that places students in multi‑term industry assignments, and dedicated laboratory and prototyping facilities where students design and test devices and systems.

Students gain interdisciplinary exposure through collaborations with health sciences, computing and business programmes, and access to clinical partners for translational projects. Robust career services, alumni networks and employer connections support job placement and graduate school progression. The programme emphasises teamwork, design experience and professional skills that employers in the medical technology and healthcare sectors value.