Biomedical Engineering MEng
Biomedical engineering is a dynamic, multidisciplinary field that links engineering and medicine to improve human health and quality of life. It’s a field where you can make a real impact, using cutting-edge technology to develop innovations that help people live longer, healthier, and happier lives. The MEng provides an integrated master's qualification with advanced topics and a specialised research project in your fourth year, helping you stand out to top employers.
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A Levels
AAA -
UCAS code
H675 -
Duration
4 years -
Start date
September
- Accredited
- Course fee
- Funding available
- Optional placement year
- Study abroad option
Explore this course:
Course description
Why study this course?
1st in the UK for 'Teaching on my course' and 'Learning opportunities'
We are ranked number one for 'Teaching on my course' and 'Learning opportunities' in the subject of bioengineering, medical, and biomedical engineering (National Student Survey 2025).
2nd in the UK for biomedical engineering
Ranked 2nd in the UK for biomedical engineering (general engineering category), according to the Guardian University Guide 2026. We are also proud to be one of the longest-running biomedical engineering programmes in the country, with a strong legacy of excellence in the field.
Unique, state-of-the-art facilities
Access cutting-edge, state-of-the-art facilities designed to enhance your learning and research. You’ll work in specialised biomedical spaces, including the Bio Mammalian and Bio Bacteria labs, as well as advanced areas like the Microfabrication room, Electronics Cleanroom, and the Pilot Plant in The Diamond building.
Specialise in the area that interests you
In your second year, you choose a pathway that aligns with your interests, which then leads to one of four final-year specialisms: Biomedical Engineering, Medical Devices and Systems, Biomanufacturing, or Biomaterials & Tissue Engineering. This approach lets you explore the field before specialising in the area that best matches your interests.
Global engineering challenge
Join teams of students to solve engineering problems in developing countries – pushing you to develop you as a professional engineer and enhancing your career prospects.
The Biomedical Engineering MEng course prepares you to be at the forefront of the rapidly growing medical technology sector, developing your skills and knowledge to create innovative solutions that can save and improve lives.
This well-established course helps you build a strong foundation in engineering principles, while equipping you with the skills to design, innovate, and improve medical technologies. You’ll gain hands-on experience and knowledge that will empower you to make a real impact through advanced biomedical solutions.
Our expert academic team, composed of industry experts, clinicians and academics, has been teaching biomedical engineering at Sheffield for over a decade. They will show you how both traditional and contemporary engineering principles can be applied to transform healthcare, integrating diverse engineering disciplines to develop innovative solutions that improve health and quality of life.
In your first year, you’ll gain a solid foundation in both engineering and the underpinning sciences. You’ll study the structure and function of the human body alongside fundamental engineering principles, learning how engineering concepts are applied to medicine and biology.
In year two, you choose one of two pathways that align with your interests. Pathway A leads to either the Biomedical Engineering or Medical Devices and Systems final-year routes, while Pathway B leads to Biomanufacturing or Biomaterials & Tissue Engineering.
Alongside pathway-specific modules, you’ll continue to build core skills in biomechanics, mechatronics, data-driven design, and machine learning, while gaining experience in laboratories, computational tools and collaborative design projects.
In year three, you’ll specialise further by selecting your final-year route. Core modules develop your research and professional skills and teach the design process for bringing biomedical solutions from concept to market. You’ll also complete a Group Design Project, applying knowledge to a real-world biomedical challenge and building advanced technical, analytical, and collaborative skills.
Your final year features an Individual Research Project, allowing independent or team-based work to investigate a specialised topic. Professional development and research modules prepare you for career or further study. Optional modules let you focus on areas such as medical device regulation, bioimaging, nanomaterials, biopharmaceutical engineering, computational biomechanics, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal modelling, human movement biomechanics and women’s health.
Graduates leave the MEng with advanced technical, analytical, research and professional capabilities to tackle complex biomedical projects and become an innovation driver in either industry or academia.
This course is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and the Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine (IPEM).
The MEng satisfies all the academic requirements needed for Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
Modules
UCAS code: H675
Years: 2026
In your first year, you’ll gain a solid foundation in both engineering and the underpinning sciences. You’ll study the structure and function of the human body alongside fundamental engineering principles, learning how engineering concepts are applied to medicine and biology.
Modules cover human anatomy and physiology, biomaterials, electronics, mathematics, basic mechatronics, and the use of cells and living systems in engineering. You’ll explore how materials and technologies are used to support, monitor, and repair the body, and how engineering principles can be applied to solve healthcare challenges.
You’ll also gain practical experience in laboratories and workshops, developing key technical skills such as data analysis, programming and computer-aided design (CAD), as well as fabrication techniques like 3D printing and laser cutting.
Alongside subject knowledge, we’ll support you to develop essential professional skills: academic integrity, employability, teamwork and communication.
Core modules:
- Biomedical Materials and the Human Body
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This course introduces students to the anatomy of the human body and examines the organisation, structure and function of organs, tissues and cells in a healthy human body. It then considers this information from an engineering perspective, examining both natural and replacement biomaterials to allow students to (1) understand how engineering techniques are used to support, monitor and repair damaged human tissues (2) understand the reasons why biomaterials have the properties that they do and what properties these materials must have; (3) learn how biomaterials can be used to solve current healthcare challenges.
20 credits - Introduction to Biomedical Engineering
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This module will introduce the application of engineering principles to biological and medical problems and develop the fundamental skills necessary to succeed including key laboratory skills, programming, CAD, group work, peer assessment and presentation skills. It will also introduce students to important employability concepts to provide them with an awareness of the knowledge areas and skills that are needed in order to contribute to the development of the fast-growing field of biomedical engineering. It will also help create links with and draw on the other modules that students will take in year 1.The module also includes a focused, week-long, cross-faculty interdisciplinary design activity aimed at equipping students with essential teamwork, design, problem-solving, and communication skills. Particular attention is paid to employability, sustainability, and inclusivity. Through real-life engineering projects, students are introduced to tackling complex challenges.
20 credits - Mathematics for Engineers
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This module aims to reinforce your previous knowledge and to develop new basic mathematical techniques needed to support the engineering subjects taken at Years 1 and 2. It also provides a foundation for your Year 2 study of mathematics in engineering. The module is delivered via online lectures, reinforced with weekly interactive problem classes.
20 credits - Engineering system modelling and analysis
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This module serves as an introduction to common system analysis tools and their application to simple mechatronic systems.
20 credits
You will study fundamental mathematics topics and be introduced to the first principles of modelling and system behaviour. You will focus predominantly on first-order linear systems.
The tools you use in this module will be applied to a wide breadth of engineering applications. - Engineering with Living Systems
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This dynamic module provides a comprehensive exploration of biomanufacturing, focusing on the innovative production of essential products using living systems. You will gain a foundational understanding of the burgeoning biotechnology industry, learning about the diverse range of products across its various sectors, showcasing how living systems are harnessed to produce a diverse array of products.
20 credits
You will explore the intricate workings of host cell systems, such as yeast and E. coli, which are the very backbone of industrial bio-manufacturing. You will gain a deep understanding of microbiology as you explore cell growth kinetics in both batch and continuous systems, linking these principles to the production of vital outputs like protein biopharmaceuticals and fatty acid fuels, learn about the crucial process of fermentation and discover innovative strategies like metabolic engineering and synthetic biology used to enhance cellular productivity.
Through engaging case studies and practical laboratory sessions, you'll see how genetic and metabolic engineering revolutionize product creation. By the end of this module, you will be equipped with a robust understanding of biological engineering, microbial processes, novel bioproducts, enzymatic catalysis, and the transformative potential of synthetic biology and metabolic engineering. - Introduction to Electric and Electronic Circuits
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This module introduces the concepts and analytical tools for predicting the behaviour of combinations of passive circuit elements, resistance, capacitance and inductance driven by ideal voltage and/or current sources which may be ac or dc sources. The ideas involved are important not only from the point of view of modelling real electronic circuits but also because many complicated processes in biology, medicine and mechanical engineering are themselves modelled by electric circuits. The passive ideas are extended to active electronic components; diodes, transistors and operational amplifiers and the circuits in which these devices are used. Transformers, magnetics and dc motors are also covered.
20 credits - Global Engineering Challenge Week
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The Faculty-wide Global Engineering Challenge Week is a compulsory part of the first-year programme. The project has been designed to develop student academic, transferable and employability skills as well as widen their horizons as global citizens. Working in multi-disciplinary groups of 5-6, for a full week, all students in the Faculty choose from a number of projects arranged under a range of themes including Water, Waste Management, Energy and Digital with scenarios set in an overseas location facing economic challenge. Some projects are based on the Engineers Without Borders Engineering for people design challenge*.
*The EWB challenge provides students with the opportunity to learn about design, teamwork and communication through real, inspiring, sustainable and cross-cultural development projects identified by EWB with its community-based partner organisations.
In your second year, you’ll advance your understanding of biomedical engineering and follow one of two pathways to align with your interests and future career goals:
- Pathway A: Prepares you for the biomedical engineering or medical devices and systems routes, with a focus on biomechanics, signals, control, applied mathematics, and robotics.
- Pathway B: Prepares you for the final-year biomanufacturing or biomaterials and tissue engineering routes, emphasising materials, bioprocessing, and the interaction between biomaterials and human physiology.
Each pathway covers more advanced, pathway-specific biomedical engineering topics and expands your laboratory, computational, and design experience.
In addition to the pathway specific modules you will take core modules that will cover the biomechanics of the human body, machine learning and data-driven design, and mechatronics.
The year also includes project-based design and extended laboratory sessions, applying engineering methods to real biomedical problems. You’ll develop key professional skills such as scientific writing, communication, teamwork, and independent analysis, preparing you for specialisation in your final year.
In your third year, you’ll specialise further by selecting one of two routes available to you from the pathway you followed in year 2. This allows you to develop advanced knowledge and practical expertise in your chosen area of biomedical engineering.
Pathway A leads to:
- Biomedical engineering route: modules focus on anatomy, physiology, medical imaging, clinical engineering, and biomechanics.
- Medical devices and systems route: modules focus on advanced robotics, control systems design, and medical device development.
Pathway B leads to:
- Biomanufacturing route: modules focus on advanced bioprocess design, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and the production of biotherapeutics.
- Biomaterials and tissue engineering route: modules focus on anatomy, physiology, medical imaging, tissue engineering approaches, and biomaterial applications.
Whatever route you choose, you’ll also take 3 core modules. In the first module you will learn about the design process involved in developing biomedical solutions, from concept to market. The second module is dedicated to advancing your professional and research acumen. You'll engage directly with industry and academic experts to explore the latest in biomedical engineering research, current technologies, and pressing issues. This hands-on exposure is designed to clearly define your career and employment opportunities within the sector.
This year also features a significant Group Design Project. This is your third core module where you'll apply your knowledge to solve a real-world biomedical engineering challenge. Working collaboratively, you will hone advanced technical, analytical, and professional skills by planning, executing, analysing, and presenting your innovative solution.
Alongside this, core and route-specific modules provide advanced learning in areas such as medical device design, computational biomechanics, tissue engineering, and biomanufacturing.
The Individual Research Project is the cornerstone of your final year. Over two semesters, this core module gives you the chance to act as an independent researcher within a specialised group, applying all the knowledge you've gained. Whether your work is lab-based or computational, you'll gain practical experience in every stage of the process: conducting a literature review, designing and executing your own study, analysing results, and communicating your findings to an academic standard.
This year also features a professional preparation module, designed to significantly enhance your employability. You'll undertake an independent skill development activity that allows you to strategically plan your transition into early-career practice.
Your final year optional modules let you specialise and align your learning with your professional aspirations. You can delve into advanced, in-demand topics, including: medical device regulation, bioimaging, nanomaterials, biopharmaceutical engineering, life cycle assessment, computational biomechanics, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems modelling, human movement biomechanics and women’s health. The specific module choices available to you will depend on the academic route you select in year 3.
Your MEng degree is designed to create future leaders. You'll leave with the advanced technical, analytical, research, and professional capabilities to tackle complex biomedical projects and become an innovation driver in either industry or academia.
The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we will inform students and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.
Learning and assessment
Learning
You'll learn and be taught through:
- lectures
- tutorials
- practical activities
- coursework assignments (including oral, video and poster presentations)
- Individual Investigative Project (final year)
- design projects
- online resources
Assessment
Students are assessed via a mix of the following:
- examinations
- coursework assignments
- lab work
- online tests
- reports
- group projects
- presentations
- design projects
- dissertations
Entry requirements
With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible.
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
AAA
including Maths and a science
- A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
- AAB, including Maths and a science + A in a relevant EPQ; AAB, including Maths and a science + A in AS or B in A Level Further Maths
- International Baccalaureate
- 36, with 6 in Higher Level Maths and a science; 34, with 6,5 (in any order) in Higher Level Maths and a science, and A in a science-based extended essay
- BTEC Extended Diploma
- DDD in Engineering or Applied Science (including Biomedical Science, Analytical & Forensic Science and Physical Science streams) + A in A Level Maths
- BTEC Diploma
- DD in Engineering or Applied Science + A in A Level Maths
- Scottish Highers + Advanced Higher/s
- AAABB + AA in Maths and a science
- Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
- A + AA in Maths and a science
- Access to HE Diploma
- Award of the Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject (covering sufficient Maths and science units), with 45 credits at Level 3, including 39 at Distinction and 6 at Merit
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Science subjects include Chemistry, Physics, Biology/Human Biology, Electronics, Engineering, Technology, Environmental Science, Computer Science, Further Mathematics or Statistics
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
AAB
including Maths and a science
- A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
- AAB, including Maths and a science + A in a relevant EPQ; AAB, including Maths and a science + A in AS or B in A Level Further Maths
- International Baccalaureate
- 34, with 6,5 (in any order) in Higher Level Maths and a science
- BTEC Extended Diploma
- DDD in Engineering or Applied Science (including Biomedical Science, Analytical & Forensic Science and Physical Science streams) + B in A Level Maths
- BTEC Diploma
- DD in Engineering or Applied Science + B in A Level Maths
- Scottish Highers + Advanced Higher/s
- AABBB + AB in Maths and a science
- Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
- B + AA in Maths and a science
- Access to HE Diploma
- Award of the Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject (covering sufficient Maths and science units), with 45 credits at Level 3, including 36 at Distinction and 9 at Merit
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Science subjects include Chemistry, Physics, Biology/Human Biology, Electronics, Engineering, Technology, Environmental Science, Computer Science, Further Mathematics or Statistics
You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification
Equivalent English language qualifications
Visa and immigration requirements
Other qualifications | UK and EU/international
If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the school.
Graduate careers
School of Chemical, Materials and Biological Engineering
Our graduates are highly sought after in medical device companies, research institutions, and healthcare organisations. They design medical instruments, repair tissue, and tackle clinical challenges through innovative research, improving patient care and advancing healthcare.
By collaborating with materials scientists, physicians, dentists, therapists, and technologists, they play a key role in enhancing human health.
A degree in biomedical engineering equips you with essential skills such as problem-solving, research, communication, and teamwork. Through hands-on experience and real-world project opportunities, you will gain expertise in cutting-edge technologies while developing the ability to design medical innovations, drive technological advancements, and excel in interdisciplinary careers.
Our graduates work with leading organisations like AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline, JRI Orthopaedics, DePuy Synthes, Johnson & Johnson, the NHS and Abbot Diabetes Care, advancing research in areas such as medical devices, orthopaedic implants and pharmaceuticals.
School of Chemical, Materials and Biological Engineering
Department statistics
1st in the UK for 'Teaching on my course' and 'Learning opportunities' in the subject category of bioengineering, medical and biomedical engineering
The National Student Survey (NSS) 2025
2nd in the UK for biomedical engineering (general engineering category)
Guardian University Guide 2026
3rd in the UK for bioengineering and biomedical engineering
The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026
Like the industry, biomedical engineering at Sheffield is interdisciplinary. You'll be taught by experts in materials, mechanical, control, electrical, chemical and biological engineering, computer science, medicine and biology.
From 3D printing and biophotonics, to tissue and bone engineering, we're helping to develop products that improve medical care and quality of life. Our research-led teaching produces multi-skilled graduates who can carry on that work.
You will develop the knowledge and skills employers are looking for by working closely with partners in the healthcare profession and in industry such as Philips, Johnson and Johnson and the NHS.
Learning and teaching takes place in one of the best biomedical engineering teaching spaces in the UK. The Diamond has industry-standard equipment for culturing and analysing cells, measuring the activity of the human body, mechanical and electrical testing of materials, 3D printing and customised software packages for developing biomedical engineering models.
University rankings
A world top-100 university
QS World University Rankings 2026 (92nd)
Number one in the Russell Group (based on aggregate responses)
National Student Survey 2025
92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
Research Excellence Framework 2021
University of the Year for Student Experience
The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026
Number one Students' Union in the UK
Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017
Number one for Students' Union
StudentCrowd 2024 University Awards
A top 20 university targeted by employers
The Graduate Market in 2024, High Fliers report
Student profiles
Fees and funding
Fees
Additional costs
The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.
Funding your study
Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.
Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.
Placements and study abroad
Placement
Study abroad
Visit
University open days
We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.
Online events
Join our weekly Sheffield Live online sessions to find out more about different aspects of University life.
Subject tasters
If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.
Offer holder days
If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.
Campus tours
Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.
Apply
The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.
Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.
Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.