Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Engineering - Engineering Education

Our faculty are leading researchers in their fields, generating innovative solutions focused on biological advances, ranging from engineering tissues and artificial organs, to changing genes. Our researchers also develop clinical applications and advance technology in cellular diagnostics, imaging, medical devices, computational areas, and much more. To improve healthcare, our solutions must move from conception to reality. Michigan supports its life science innovators through: Education programs run by the Center for Entrepreneurship in the College of Engineering. Funding and training for emerging innovators through the National Science Foundation and Innovation-Corps Program. Translational research funding through the Coulter Translational Research Partnership Program and M-Trac Life Sciences. Michigan’s own life-science-focused venture capital fund, the Michigan Biomedical Venture Fund. Ph.D. Requirements: Once students complete the master’s-degree requirements outlined in the BME Graduate Curriculum, they take a minimum of nine additional graded credit hours directly related to their Ph.D. research. These 9 credit hours are decided upon by the student and their research advisor. Information on policies for academic probation and dismissal for Ph.D. students can be found in the forms folder. Students complete a course plan of study at the start of their graduate studies, following the Curriculum. The Plan of Study form can be found in the Graduate Forms Folder. Students’ classes can change from their original plan of study while they are a student, but their final M.S. courses ultimately must meet the overall guidelines as outlined in the Curriculum. As described in the Curriculum, MSMSE and Ph.D. students may participate in Directed Research for credit, through BIOMEDE 590. Guidelines for Directed Research are also found in the graduate forms folder. Ph.D. Pre-Candidate students must complete the Qualifying Exam prior to being granted Ph.D. Candidacy. This typically occurs after two years if entering the program without an M.S., or after one year of entering with an M.S. Further information on the Qualifying Exam can be found in the graduate forms folder. Special circumstances for a student’s Curriculum will be considered via petition. See the graduate forms folder for the petitions we offer. Objective: Michigan is committed to bridging the gap between education research and engineering instruction to enhance student learning. Distinct from traditional engineering disciplines and education research, this research lies at the intersection of engineering, education, and the social sciences. Technologies: With a deep understanding of engineering, we leverage qualitative and quantitative education research methods to explore innovative means of transforming engineering programs to meet the changing roles of engineers in the global economy. Applications: Engineering entrepreneurship and innovation education; Biomedical engineering instructional change; Biomedical engineering identity and interdisciplinary qualities; Strategies for front-end design.