COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science (MS) in Biomedical Engineering (BME) at Wichita State University offers students two flexible degree completion pathways: a Thesis Option and a Directed/Independent Project Option, allowing them to tailor their education according to their career and research goals. The Thesis Option requires a total of 30 graduate credit hours and is particularly suitable for students interested in research, innovation, and future doctoral studies. Students complete 9 credit hours of graduate-level Biomedical Engineering courses numbered 700 or above, excluding Independent Study courses, and must participate in BME Graduate Seminar (BME 877). In addition, students complete 15 credit hours of approved electives selected with faculty guidance from disciplines such as Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Health Professions, and Psychology. The thesis component consists of 6 credit hours of BME 876 Thesis, during which students conduct original research and produce a formal thesis under faculty supervision. The Directed/Independent Project Option requires 33 graduate credit hours and is designed for students seeking advanced professional preparation with a greater emphasis on coursework and applied projects. This pathway includes 21 credit hours of graduate-level Biomedical Engineering courses numbered 700 or above, participation in BME Graduate Seminar, and 9 credit hours of approved electives drawn from the same interdisciplinary fields available to thesis students. Instead of a thesis, students complete BME 878 MS Project in Biomedical Engineering, a 3-credit-hour capstone experience requiring a written technical report and an oral presentation demonstrating the successful completion of an independent or directed engineering project. Both degree options emphasize advanced engineering principles, problem-solving skills, interdisciplinary collaboration, and practical application of engineering techniques to healthcare and biological systems. The curriculum allows students to integrate knowledge from engineering, life sciences, computing, and healthcare-related disciplines, preparing graduates for careers in medical device development, biotechnology, healthcare technology, research laboratories, pharmaceutical industries, regulatory organizations, government agencies, consulting firms, and doctoral programs. The program’s flexible structure ensures students can pursue either research-focused or industry-oriented career pathways while developing the technical expertise and professional skills required in the rapidly growing biomedical engineering field.