Who is this course for?

The MSc in Biomedical Engineering is a one-year, full-time programme that offers an internationally recognised educational experience at the intersection of engineering, biology, and medicine. 

Students complete a total of 90 ECTS, comprising: 

• 60 ECTS of taught modules delivered across the Autumn and Spring semesters
• A 30 ECTS Research Thesis, undertaken over the full year, focused on a cutting-edge topic in medical technology 

This structure ensures graduates gain both deep technical knowledge and practical research experience, preparing them for leadership roles in industry, research, or academia. 

What will I study?  

Students entering on this programme must make module selections within one of the two streams below, with module selections in each stream comprising foundational and mandatory modules, technical elective modules and transferrable skills modules. 

1. General Stream: this stream offers students a broad module choice that provides them with the advanced technical, transferrable, and professional skills to work in the medical technology sector. Key focus areas include biomechanics, computational methods, medical device design, project management, manufacturing and tissue engineering. This stream equips students with a broad knowledge base that could enable future careers in medical device design, clinical innovation and/or further study in Biomedical Engineering through research.
2. Medical Electronics (ME) Stream: this stream offers students with module choices that provide them with technical, transferrable and professional skills to work in the bioelectronics industry. Key focus areas include bioinstrumentation design, UX design for medical devices, machine learning and AI for engineering applications, project management and computational methods. 

Students study a wide range of advanced Biomedical Engineering subjects across streams that offer practical and transferable training for future careers in research or the Medical Technology industry. Some examples of technical modules, and streams they are available on, are listed below. 

• Biomechanics/Advanced Biomechanics (Both Streams)
• Biomedical Engineering Design (Both Streams)
• Advanced Manufacturing (Both Streams)
• Bioinstrumentation Design (Both Streams)
• Finite Element Methods/ Advanced Finite Element Methods (Both Streams)
• Advanced Biomaterials (General Stream)
• Tissue Engineering/Advanced Tissue Engineering (General Stream)
• Biotransport (General Stream)
• Mechanobiology (General Stream)
• UX Design for Medical Devices (Both Streams)
• Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence for Engineering Applications (Both Streams)
• Advanced Biomedical Thermodynamics (General Stream)
• Computational fluid dynamics (General Stream)
• Advanced Finite Element Methods (Both Steeams)
• Digital Signal Processing (Medical Electronics Stream)
• Embedded Image Processing (Medical Electronics Stream)
• Internet of Things Systems Design
• Stem Cells and Gene Therapy
• Translational Medicine (General Stream)
• Basic and Advanced Immunology (General Stream) 

The transferable skills modules available to students are largely common across streams and include: 

• Project Management (Both Streams)
• Lean Systems (Medical Electronics Stream)
• Research Methods for Engineers (Both Streams)
• Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (Both Streams)
• Human Reliability (Both Streams) 

1. Located in Ireland’s MedTech Capital
   The programme is based in Galway, a major hub for the global medical technology industry, home to multinational corporations and innovative start-ups. Students benefit from strong industry connections and a wealth of local employment opportunities.
2. Industry-Focused Curriculum
   Designed in consultation with leading MedTech companies, the MSc equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in roles such as R&D, design assurance, manufacturing, quality, and regulatory affairs.
3. Hands-On Research with Real-World Impact
   A defining feature of the course is the 30 ECTS Master’s Thesis, where students tackle cutting-edge biomedical challenges - many linked to active projects at CÚRAM, Ireland’s Centre for Research in Medical Devices.
4. Multidisciplinary Expertise and Facilities
   Students learn from a team of experts in engineering, science, and medicine, with access to the state-of-the-art Alice Perry Engineering Building, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration.
5. Transferable Skills for Career Flexibility
   In addition to technical training, the programme builds high-value transferable skills in project management, innovation, research methods, and lean systems, preparing graduates for leadership roles or PhD-level research. 

Graduates will be readily employable in the medical technology and cognate high-tech industries (e.g., micro-electronics, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices).  In the medical technology industry in particular, employment roles will include research and development (R&D), design assurance, manufacturing and production, quality assurance and regulatory affairs.  Graduates will also be ideally qualified to undertake PhD-level research, leading to employment in the academic and industrial research sectors. 

Top three reasons to choose an MSc in Biomedical Engineering at University of Galway 

1. Trains Biomedical Engineers to meet specific Industry needs:
   University of Galway resides in the heart of Ireland’s thriving Medical Technology Industry and the Masters in Biomedical Engineering has been designed to produce top quality Biomedical Engineers that can meet the needs of the rapidly evolving technologies in this sector. We have developed strong industrial relationships, which are fundamental to the success of our program. Galway city is also a hub for smaller start-up Biomedical Engineering companies and there are employment opportunities in these exciting environments.
2. Teaches the skills to research and help solve real-world problems:
   One of the key aspects of the MSc in Biomedical Engineering is the 30 ECTS Master’s Thesis project. This project challenges students to undertake individual study in specific topics and derive solutions using both their engineering and biological skills. Many students undertake projects, which are part of larger research projects within the Discipline and at the Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM). Some examples of recent projects include:
   1. Development of a “Bone-on-a-chip” device for screening drug candidates for treatment of Osteoporosis 
   2. Finite Element Modelling of Surgical Cutting for Orthopaedic Applications
   3. Developing micro-pillar mechanosensitive substrates to measure the forces exerted by neurons on electrically conducting polymeric surfaces
   4. Investigation of the fracture properties of bone and finite element prediction of femoral fracture risk during hip replacement surgery
3. Multidisciplinary teaching and outstanding facilities:
   The MSc in Biomedical Engineering boasts a world-leading learning environment, with lecture and labs delivered in the state-of-the-art Alice Perry Engineering Building on the riverside campus of University of Galway. Our academic staff are truly multidisciplinary, comprising engineering, scientific and medical backgrounds, with leading expertise in medical device and clinical fields. Our students engage in projects to design new solutions to existing problems that arise in clinical settings. These elements ensure that our students identify and exploit their engineering expertise to improve the world of clinical medicine by developing new methods to help prevent, diagnose and treat all types of diseases, injuries and disabilities. 

• Dr Jamie Concannon
• Prof Patrick McGarry
• Prof Manus Biggs 
• Prof Sean Leen 
• Dr Noel Harrison 
• Dr Xuliang Qian 
• Dr Eoin McEvoy
• Prof Kathryn Cormican 
• Prof Mary Murphy 
• Prof Thomas Ritter 
• Dr Soumyajyoti Maji 
• Mr Liam Kilmartin
• Dr Eoin McEvoy
• Dr Yury Rochev
• Dr Catalina Vallejo Giraldo
• Dr Anup Poudel
• Dr Mingming Tong 
• Dr Sam Redfern
• Dr William Ronan
• Dr Richard Barrett 
• Dr Xuliang Qian 
• Prof Matt Griffin
• Dr Andrew Daly 
• Dr Xuliang Qian

How will I learn?

The MSc in Biomedical Engineering combines innovative teaching methods with practical, hands-on learning to ensure a comprehensive educational experience. You will learn through a mix of interactive lectures, laboratory sessions, and workshops/tutorials led by expert faculty. Real-world medical technology challenges, data-driven projects and computational analysis exercises will enable you to apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems. 

Oral and poster presentations will enhance your communication skills, while individual assignments and the final dissertation will help you develop independence and critical thinking.  

Throughout the programme, you will have access to cutting-edge resources, including a suite of biofabrication and mechanical testing equipment, biomedical laboratories including cell and tissue culture and analysis facilities, to support your learning and professional growth.

How Will I Be Assessed? 

Throughout the programme, your progress is assessed through various coursework and exams, including reports, presentations, and computer assignments. 

1. Continuous Assessment - Regular coursework, including reports, presentations, in-class tests, and computational exercises. Students receive regular (weekly) feedback on their progress.
2. Examinations - Written exams take place before Christmas and in May. Written and oral exams evaluate proficiency in technical knowledge and interpretation and the ability to demonstrate aptitude and understanding.
3. Project Work - Research projects and assignments allow students to apply their skills in real-world contexts. 

Course queries:
E: biomedeng@universityofgalway.ie 

Programme Administrator:  

Aisling Rooney 
Programme and Operations Officer 
Biomedical Engineering 
School of Engineering 
College of Science and Engineering 

E: biomedeng@universityofgalway.ie 
T: 091 492723 

University of Galway recognises that knowledge and skills can be acquired from a range of learning experiences. This is in line with the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) goals which aim to recognise all learning achievements by supporting the development of alternative pathways to qualifications (or awards) and by facilitating the recognition of prior learning (RPL). 

As part of the MSc in Biomedical Engineering, students develop a strong foundation in transferable professional skills that are valuable across a wide range of careers. Core modules include Project Management, Lean Systems, Research Methods for Engineers, Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and Human Reliability - all designed to enhance leadership, analytical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.

Minimum Entry Requirements

Entry to the MSc programme is open to individuals who have Second Class Honours, Grade 1 (H2.1), in a Level 8 engineering degree in a related discipline, or equivalent, from a recognised university or third-level college. Factors taken into account in determining admission will include the specific content of the undergraduate degree (with a particular focus on prior learning in engineering/mathematics/physics), the applicant’s performance, and the availability of places. 

Academic entry requirements standardised per country are available here.  

English Language Entry Requirements

For applicants whose first language is not English, an English language proficiency of IELTS score of 6.5 is required (with no less than 5.5 in any other band) or equivalent.  

More information on English language test equivalency are available here.  

Supporting Documents 

You will be required to provide supporting documentation as part of your application. You can check here what supporting documents are required for this course.   

You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.  

Please review the entry requirements set out in the section above.  

You will be required to upload supporting documentation to your application electronically. See the section above on entry requirements for further information on the supporting documentation required for this course.  

Closing Dates 

For this programme, there is no specific closing date for receipt of applications. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and course quotes will be reviewed continuously throughout the application cycle.  

Notes 

• You will need an active email account to use the website and you'll be guided through the system, step by step, until you complete the online form.
• Browse the FAQ's section for further guidance.  

Fees for Academic Year 2025/2026

For 25/26 entrants, where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 3.4% per annum for continuing years fees.

Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,000 towards your tuition (2025/26).  You will be liable for the remainder of the total fee.  A P1 grant is where SUSI will pay tuition up to a maximum of €6,270. SUSI will not cover the student levy of €140.

Note to non-EU students: learn about the 24-month Stayback Visa here. 

Postgraduate Excellence Scholarships 

This scholarship is valued at €1,500 for EU students applying for full-time taught master's postgraduate courses. You will be eligible if: 

• You have been accepted to a full-time taught master's course at University of Galway,
• You have attained a first class honours (or equivalent) in a Level 8 primary degree.  

An application for the scholarship scheme is required (separate to the application for a place on the programme). The application portal for 2025 is now open and available here. Applications will close on the 30th September 2025. Full details available here.  

Global Scholarships

University of Galway offers a range of merit-based scholarships to students from a number of countries outside of the EU. Visit here for schemes currently available.

Application Process 

Students applying for full time postgraduate programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.  

Our application portal opens on the 1st October each year for entry the following September.   

Further Information 

Please visit the postgraduate admissions webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application process.  

https://www.universityofgalway.ie/science-engineering/engineering/