Bmed

RENSSELAER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE
School of Engineering

Biomedical
Engineering

1
BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING UNDERGRADUATE HANDBOOK 11/8/2010
Table of Contents

Biomedical Engineering1
Contact Information and Educational Objectives..2
Responsibilities..3
Bachelor Degree Requirements.4
Required Courses..6
Curriculum and Schedule Traditional BMED program.9
Curriculum and Schedule Premed program.12
Registration.17
Student Societies.18
Undergraduate Research Projects....19
Study Abroad...22
International Study..22
Co-terminal Degrees23
Graduate Degree in Biomedical Engineering..27
Frequently Asked Questions...29

2
What is Biomedical Engineering

Biomedical engineering is a discipline that advances knowledge in engineering, biology and
medicine, and improves human health through activities that integrate the engineering sciences
with the biomedical sciences and clinical practice. In other words, biomedical engineering is a
multidisciplinary field combining engineering, basic sciences and medicine.
Biomedical engineering produces a better understanding of
How the body works.
How the body becomes diseased.
Ways to prevent/protect the body from disease.
Novel mechanisms to reverse the disease process.
Novel ways to repair diseased tissue.
New devices to replace diseased tissue.
Biomedical Engineers develop devices and procedures that solve medical and health-related problems by
combining their knowledge of biology and medicine with engineering principles and practices. Many do
research, along with medical scientists, to develop and evaluate systems and products such as artificial
organs, prostheses (artificial devices that replace missing body parts), instrumentation, medical
information systems, and health management and care delivery systems. Biomedical engineers also may
design devices used in various medical procedures, imaging systems such as magnetic resonance imaging
(MRI), and devices for automating insulin injections or controlling body functions Some specialties
within biomedical engineering are biomaterials, biomechanics, medical imaging, rehabilitation
engineering, and orthopedic engineering.
Biomedical Engineers are expected to have employment growth of 72 percent over the next decade, much
faster than the average for all occupations. The aging of the population and a growing focus on health
issues will drive demand for better medical devices and equipment designed by biomedical engineers.
Along with the demand for more sophisticated medical equipment and procedures, an increased concern
for cost-effectiveness will boost demand for biomedical engineers, particularly in pharmaceutical
manufacturing and related industries.
Average starting salary offers for graduates of bachelors degree programs in biomedical engineering,
according to a July 2009 survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, were $54,158.
The US Department of Labor (http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos027.htm) provides information on the various
fields of engineering and statistics concerning salary and job outlooks.
1
Contact List for Biomedical Engineering

Department Head:
Administrative Staff:
Dr. Deepak Vashishth (vashid@rpi.edu)

Pam Zepf (zepfp@rpi.edu)
Kristen Bryk (brykk@rpi.edu)
JEC7049
JEC7049
JEC7049
Undergraduate Advising:
Dr. Stanley Reisman (reisms@rpi.edu)
JEC7048
Dept. Coordinator (for URP)
Pam Zepf (zepfp@rpi.edu)
JEC7049
Graduate Admissions:
Dr. Stanley Dunn (dunns6@rpi.edu)
PE1516
General Links:
Advising and Learning Assistance Center: http://alac.rpi.edu/setup.do
Career Development Center: http://www.rpi.edu/dept/cdc/
Co-Op / Internships: http://www.rpi.edu/dept/cdc/students/experience/coop/index.html
Course Catalog: http://www.rpi.edu/academics/catalog/
International Programs: http://undergrad.rpi.edu/update.do?catcenterkey=81
Registrar Forms: http://srfs.rpi.edu/update.do?catcenterkey=29
Student Handbook: http://www.rpi.edu/dept/doso/2006-2008RPI-StudentHandbook.pdf
Student Information System: http://sis.rpi.edu/
Educational Objectives:

Graduates of the Biomedical Engineering Program will:
1. Be engaged in professional practice or be enrolled in high quality advanced academic or
industrial training programs.
2. Function in a technically competent manner to address challenges in biomedical engineering,
medicine and biology.
3. Contribute to and lead multidisciplinary teams in industrial, academic and clinical environments.
4. Be engaged in the design of biomedical products, processes, and systems within the context of
ethical, societal and environmental factors.
5. Be engaged in life long learning that expands their knowledge and appreciation of global
contemporary professional issues and practices.

2
Responsibilities

We are at the very beginning of time for the human race. It is not unreasonable that we
grapple with problems. But there are tens of thousands of years in the future. Our
responsibility is to do what we can, learn what we can, improve the solutions, and pass
them on. Richard Feynman (1918 - 1988)
Student's responsibilities
To know their advisor's office hours and advising schedule.

To make an appointment and prepare for registration advising by reviewing the Catalog, ClassHour Schedule, and Curriculum Advising & Program Planning (CAPP).
To formulate questions regarding curriculum, course selections, career options, etc.
To be aware of their academic and personal needs and to seek assistance when needed.
To understand that the role of their advisor is to advise them, not to make decisions for them.
Each student needs to realize that it's his or her education at stake, and that, with advisement, they
are ultimately responsible for making any final decisions.
Advisor responsibilties
To be accessible to students throughout the year at posted office hours. If an advisor will be away
from campus for an extended period of time, he or she should post the names and office locations
of alternate advisors outside their offices, so that students will have other advising resources.
To set aside designated times for registration advising and individual discussions.
To be knowledgeable about current curriculum requirements, academic policies and procedures,
referrals and resources on campus, and career opportunities in the major field.
To guide students through academic programs that will complement their personal, educational,
and professional interests.
3
Bachelors Degree
The bachelors degree is awarded to students who have pursued successfully, as evaluated by the faculty,
a plan of study that encompasses several disciplines. Each plan of study has at least two objectives: first,
to reach a pre-professional standing or fundamental mastery in a selected discipline; second, to develop
some grounding in knowledge found in liberally educated persons, an appreciation of technology and
science, and an openness to ongoing learning.
General requirements:
The number of courses and credit hours is prescribed by each curriculum. Minimum requirements are
128 credits for engineering.
The minimum grade point average (GPA) is 1.80.
To receive a baccalaureate degree, a student must have been admitted to the curriculum corresponding
to the degree, must have satisfied the curriculum requirements, and must be enrolled in that curriculum at
the time the degree is granted.
The course content in physical, life, and engineering sciences must total a minimum of 24 credit hours.
For information on additional requirements see the School of Science section of the course catalog.
The course content in humanities and social sciences must total a minimum of 24 credit hours,
including at least eight credit hours in the humanities and eight credit hours in the social sciences. For
information on additional requirements see the School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences section of
the course catalog.
Every student is required to take at least two communication-intensive courses. At least one of these
must be in the students major and at least one of the courses must be taught in the School of Humanities,
Arts, and Social Sciences.
The minimum course concentration in the area of the selected discipline is prescribed by each
curriculum but cannot be less than 30 credit hours.
At least 24 credit hours are to be elective, of which no less than 12 credit hours are unrestricted
electives.
The student must be registered full-time for a minimum of four semesters. Two semesters of part-time
study at Rensselaer will be considered equivalent to one semester of full-time study. In addition, the
student must complete a minimum of 48 credit hours at Rensselaer, all of which will be applied to the
baccalaureate degree. If a transfer student elects to study abroad or enroll in the co-op program, no more
than 12 such credits may apply to the 48 needed for the bachelors degree. The students Plan of Study at
Rensselaer must include at least 16 credits of courses above the 1000 level in the major field, or in an
approved concentration.
The student must be careful to satisfy institutes HASS core depth and breath requirements.
ACADEMIC INFORMATION AND REGULATIONS
84 The Institute requires a degree candidate to earn the last 30 credits in courses completed on this
campus or through a program formally recognized by the Institute. Transfer courses are limited to two
courses or eight credits counting toward the students last 30 credits and require approval of the director
of the Advising and Learning Assistance Center.
Baccalaureate candidates must have passed all of the prescribed academic work and have satisfied the fee
requirements. Candidates must also be in good academic and disciplinary standing. Undergraduate
students on probation at the time of completion of course work may be required to meet certain
stipulations for removal from probation. However, such requirements may be waived for those students
whose cumulative GPAs satisfy the baccalaureate degree requirements. In general, a terms work with
grades of not less than C will be required in programs arranged by the Committee on Academic Standing.
4
The director of the Advising and Learning Assistance Center will state requirements to the students in
writing.
Degree candidates must be registered during the semester in which they intend to graduate and must file a
degree application with the registrar by the dates specified in the academic calendar. Students who
previously applied for graduation but did not complete all their requirements on time must submit a new
application specifying the new date of graduation.
Double Degrees
A student may become a candidate for a second baccalaureate degree when he or she has completed: (1)
the equivalent of at least two terms (30 credit hours) of additional work beyond the requirements of a
single degree, and (2) the courses in the department in which the student is registered and such other
courses as are required for the second degree.

Dual Majors
Undergraduate students who fulfill all the degree requirements for two curricula and who have met the
conditions below will have completed a dual major. They will receive one diploma noting both majors.
(1) The student must designate a first-named and second-named major in writing at least one semester
prior to graduation, and have the appropriate department(s) approve this designation prior to filing the
dual major form with the registrar.
(2) Each student will be assigned an adviser in each department who will monitor progress towards
degrees in that department.
(3) The degree clearance officer in the department will certify that the student has met the degree
requirements in that department.
(4) The 24- credit-hour mathematics/science requirement and the 24-credit-hour humanities and social
sciences requirement will satisfy the Institute requirements for both majors.
5
Required courses for B.S. in Biomedical Engineering

BMED 2100 - Biomaterials Science and Engineering

Presents structure-property relationships of implant materials including metals, polymers, ceramics, and
composites, with an emphasis on mechanical and surface properties in the broader context of implant
design. Biological performance of biomaterials, case studies of traditional implantsas well as emerging,
tissue-engineered materials are emphasized. Spring term annually. Credit Hours: 4
BMED 2200 - Modeling of Biomedical Systems

Introduction of mathematical and computational methods to model physiological systems in biomedical
engineering that include examples drawn from thermal and therapeutic diffusion, biomechanics of the
musculoskeletal system, and lumped parameter models of the cardiac cycle. Mathematical methods
include partial differential equations and systems of ordinary differential equation. Computational
methods include finite difference, finite element, and lumped parameter methods. Computational
methods are programmed using commercial programming and finite element software.
Prerequisitites: MATH 2400, PHYS 1200, CSCI 1190. Credit Hours: 4
BMED 4010 - Biomedical Engineering Laboratory

Theory and practice of biomedical measurements. An introduction to instruments and procedures for
measurement of pressure, flow, bioelectrical potentials, biomechanical and biomaterial properties, using
invasive and noninvasive techniques. Transducers studied include strain gauge, differential transformer,
spectrometer, blood gas electrodes, bipotential electrodes, microscope with camera, mechanical testing
machine, piezoelectric transducer (or sensor). Also studied are instruments for determination of material
properties. Prerequisites: BMED 2200, BMED 4500 or permission of instructor. Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4

BMED 4240 - Tissue-Biomaterial Interactions
Relationships between structure and properties of synthetic implant materials, including metals, polymers,
ceramics, and composites. The emphasis is on mechanical, corrosion, and surface properties of materials.
Detailed review of blood-material interactions. An introduction to biocompatibility with special emphasis
on the interaction of biomaterials with cells and tissues in the context of implant surface design and tissue
engineering. Prerequisite: BMED 2100 may be taken concurrently. Spring term annually. Credit
Hours: 3

BMED 4410 - BioMEMs
This course discusses state-of-the-art techniques in patterning biomolecules, biosensors, machining threedimensional microstructures and building microfluidic devices (Lab-on-a-Chip). Seminal and current
literature will be used to discuss topics in BioMEMs ranging from device fabrication to applications in
cell biology and medicine. Students cannot get credit for both BMED 4410 and BMED 6410.
Prerequisite: Junior/Senior standing. Spring term annually. Credit Hours: 3

BMED 4440 - Biophotonics
Biophotonics, or Biomedical optics, is a newly developing field, dealing with the application of optical
science and technology to biomedical problems, including clinical applications. The course introduces
students to the fundamentals in modern and classical optics, light-matter interaction and provides them
with a broad overview of current topics and contemporary research in the area of optics and lasers in
medicine and biology. Prerequisite: PHYS 1200. Spring term annually. Credit Hours: 3
6
BMED 4500 - Advanced Systems Physiology

Applications of control theory and systems techniques to physiology. Emphasis is on entire systems and
their interactions rather than isolated phenomena. Areas covered include cardiac, respiratory, renal, and
gastrointestinal systems. Includes laboratory on the application of engineering techniques in the study of
physiological systems. Prerequisite: BIOL 4290 or equivalent. Spring term annually. Credit Hours: 4

BMED 4540 - Biomechanics
Application of mechanics to the study of normal, diseased, and traumatized musculo-skeletal system.
Areas covered include determination of joint and muscle forces, mechanical properties of biological
tissues, and structural analysis of bone-implant systems. Case studies are discussed to illustrate the role of
biomechanics and biomaterials in the design of implants. Prerequisite: none Fall term annually. Credit
Hours: 4

BMED 4600 - Biomedical Engineering Design
A guided approach to development of design skills. Students work individually and in teams to tackle a
biomedical design problem using methods drawn as necessary from engineering and from the physical
and mathematical sciences. Discussion sessions involve students in presentations of work. This is a
writing-intensive course. Prerequisite: senior standing. Spring term annually. Credit Hours: 3

BMED 4650 - Introduction to Cell and Tissue Engineering
This course teaches the use of engineering principles to describe cellular processes of biological,
chemical, and physical nature. A quantitative approach will be used to explain the behavior of cells under
various physical stimuli through the application of the laws of physics, mathematics, and physical
biochemistry. The transduction of these physical stimuli into modified behavior and their impact on organ
level performance/function and tissue engineering will be discussed in the case of mammalian cells.
Prerequisites: A basic course in mechanics (ENGR 2530 or BMED 4540, and a basic course in transport
phenomena or fluid dynamics (ENGR 2250 or equivalent), or permission of instructor.
Fall semester annually. Credit Hours: 3

BIOL 4290 - Human Physiological Systems
Study of basic physiological principles in human and higher mammalian organisms. Emphasis on
interaction and control of physiological systems. Introduction to neural, motor, sensory, circulatory, renal,
respiratory, reproductive, and hormonal systems. Fall term annually. Credit Hours: 4
BIOL 2120 - Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology

Structural and functional relationships of cells are discussed with regard to similarities among all living
organisms. Introduction to cellular biochemistry, metabolism and energy flow, cellular and Mendelian
genetics, and the chemical basis of heredity. The laboratory exercises illustrate current concepts in
cellular and molecular biology. Spring term annually. Credit Hours: 4
ENGR 1100 Introduction to Engineering Analysis

An integrated development of linear algebra and statics emphasizing engineering applications and also
incorporating computer exercises involving matrix techniques and calculations using available software
packages. Fall, spring, and summer terms annually. 4 credit hours
7
ENGR 1200 Engineering Graphics and CAD

An introduction to the techniques for creating solid models of engineering designs. Topics include threedimensional modeling of parts and assemblies, visualization, orthographic and isometric free-hand
sketching, and computer-generated design documentation. Fall, spring, and summer terms annually. 3
contact hours, 1 credit hour
ENGR 1300 Engineering Processes

The use of basic machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, drill presses, band saws, and
grinders, including micrometers, vernier calipers, and other devices of use in a machine shop or
laboratory. Welding techniques and tool making are also considered. Fall, spring, and summer terms
annually. 1 credit hour
ENGR 2250 Thermal and Fluids Engineering I

Application of control volume balances of mass, momentum, energy and entropy in systems of
practical importance to all engineers. Identification of control volumes, properties of pure materials, mass
and energy conservation for closed and open systems, second law of thermodynamics, Bernoulli equation,
fluid statics, forces and heat transfer in external and internal flows, conduction and radiative heat transfer.
Prerequisites: ENGR 1100 and PHYS 1100. Corequisite: MATH 2400. Fall, spring, and summer terms
annually. 4 credit hours
ENGR 4010 Professional Development III

Students will study issues associated with working in teams in a modern work environment. Various
styles of leadership, the definitions of power and empowerment and their applications in industry and
team settings will be studied. Additionally, other topics to be explored include vision, values and
attitudes, and organizational culture. The course format will include small and large group discussions,
case studies, experiential exercises, and regular participation from industry guests. Offered in conjunction
with senior courses. 1 credit hour
ENGR 1600 Materials Science for Engineers

Introduction to real (defect-containing) solids, and equilibria and kinetic processes in solids.
Macroscopic properties, such as mechanical strength and electrical conductivity, are dominated
by structure and bonding, and the course continuously emphasizes this connection. Each of the
materials classes (metals, ceramics, semiconductors, and polymers) is discussed in detail in this context.
Prerequisite: CHEM 1100. Fall and spring terms annually. 5 contact hours, 4 credit hours
8
Program Templates
a. Traditional BME Baccalaureate Program
First Year
Fall
Credit hours
ENGR 1100 Intro to Engineering Analysis 4

CHEM 1100 Chemistry I
4
MATH 1010 Calculus I
4
Hum. or Soc. Sci. Elective1
Spring
Credit hours
ENGR 1200 Engineering Graphics & CAD

MATH 1020 Calculus II
PHYS 1100 Physics I
BIOL-2120 Intro to Cell & Molecular Biology
1
4
4
4
4
Second Year
Fall
Credit hours
CSCI 1190 Beginning C Prog. For Engrs. 1

PHYS 1200 Physics II
4
MATH 2400 Intro to Differential Equations 4
Hum. or Sec. Sci. Elective1
4
Concentration I
4
Spring
Credit hours
BMED 2200 Modeling of Biomedical Systems

ENGR 2050 Intro to Engineering Design
Concentration II
Concentration III
4
4
4
4
Third Year
Fall
Credit hours
BIOL 4290 Human Physiological Systems

Concentration IV
Concentration V
4
4
4
4
Spring
Credit hours
BMED 4500 Advanced Systems Physiology

ENGR 2600 Mod. & Analysis of Uncertainty
Concentration VI
Concentration VII
Professional Development II
4
3
4
3-4
2
Fourth Year
Fall
Credit hours
BMED 4010 Bioengineering Lab

Concentration VIII
Free Elective I3
Free Elective II3
Free Elective III3 3
4
3-4
3
3
Spring
Credit hours
BMED 4600 BME Design4

Free Elective IV3
ENGR 4010 Professional Development III 2
Concentration IX
Hum. or Sec. Sci. Elective1
3
3
1
3-4
4
The total credit hours for the degree is 128-130

9
Biomedical Engineering Concentration Courses
(9 courses needed within each concentration, one of which may be selected from any of the lists below of
Approved Technical Electives)
F2, S3 etc. mean Fall 2nd year, Spring, 3rd year, etc.

1) Biomaterials Concentration:
6 required courses
ENGR 1600
BMED 2100
ENGR 2250
BMED 4540
BMED 4240
MTLE 2100
Materials Science for Engineers (4CR) (F2)

Biomaterials Science and Engineering (4CR) (S2)
Thermal and Fluids Engineering I
(4CR) (F3)
Biomechanics (4CR) (S2)
Tissue-Biomaterials Interaction (3CR) (S3)
Structure of Engineering Materials (4 CR) (S3)
2 approved technical electives to be chosen from this list

BMED 4650 Introduction to Cell and Tissue Engineering (S)
BMED 4xxx Mechanobiology (S, odd years)
BIOL 4750
Cell ECM Interactions (S)
BMED 4410 BioMEMS (S)
MTLE 4100
Thermodynamics of Materials (F)
MTLE 4030
Glass Science (F)
MTLE 4050
Introduction to Polymers (F)
MTLE 4250
Properties of Engineering Materials II
BMED 4xxx/6xxx
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research (F)
BMED 4xxx Biomaterials Applications in Medicine
MTLE 4960
Processing of Biomaterials (F)
1 course to be chosen from the approved technical electives of any of the three
concentrations
2) Biomechanics Concentration:
6 required courses
ENGR 1600
BMED 2100
ENGR 2250
BMED 4540
BMED 4964
BMED 4240
Materials Science for Engineers (4CR) (F2)

Biomaterials Science and Engineering (4CR) (S2)
Thermal and Fluids Engineering I
(4CR) (F3)
Biomechanics (4CR) (S2)
Biomedical Fluid Mechanics (3CR) (F3)
Tissue-Biomaterials Interaction (3CR) (S3)
10
2 technical electives to be chosen from this list

BMED 4650
BMED 4xxx
BMED 4xxx/6290
BMED 4xxx/6280
ENGR 2090
MANE 4240
MANE 4030
MANE 4610
MANE 4130
MANE 4670
BMED 4xxx/6xxx
BMED4xxx/6xxx
Introduction to Cell and Tissue Engr. (S3)

Mechanobiology (S, odd years)
Biomechanics of Hard Tissues (F, Odd years)
Biomechanics of Soft Tissues (F, Even years)
Engineering Dynamics (4CR) (S)
Introduction to Finite Elements (F&S)
Elements of Mechanical Design (F&S)
Vibrations (F)
Analysis and Design of Composite Structures (S)
Mechanical Behavior of Materials I (F)
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research (F)
Muscle Mechanics and Modeling (S)
1 course to be chosen from the approved technical electives of any of the three concentrations
3) Bioimaging/Bioinstrumentation Concentrations
4 required courses
ECSE 2010
ENGR 2350
ECSE 2100
ECSE 2410
Electric Circuits (4 CR) (F2)

Embedded Control (3CR) (S2)
Fields and Waves I (4CR) (F3)
Signals and Systems (4CR) (F3)
For Bioimaging concentration, 4 technical electives to be chosen from this list

BMED 4800
Subsurface Sensing and Imaging Systems (3 CR) (S3)
BMED 4xxx/6xxx
Biophotonics (3CR) (S4)
MANE 4340
Physics of Radiology (3CR) (F)
BMED6xxx/ECSE 6963 Biological Image Analysis (3CR) (F)
ECSE 4510
Discrete Time Systems (3 CR) (F)
ECSE 4540
Introduction to Voice & Image Processing (3CR) (S)
BMED 4xxx
BioMEMs (3CR) (S)
MANE 6480
Health Physics and Medical Aspects of Radiation
For Bioinstrumentation concentration, 4 technical electives to be chosen from this list

BMED 4xxx/6xxx
Biophotonics (3CR) (S4)
BMED 4xxx
BioMEMs (3CR) (S)
BMED 4xxxx/MANE 4340 Physics of Radiology (3CR) (F)
ECSE 2050
Introduction to Electronics (4CR) OR
ECSE 2210
Microelectronics Technology (4 CR)
ECSE 4090
Mechatronics
ECSE 4xxx/6050
Advanced Electronic Circuits (3 CR)
1 course to be chosen from the approved technical electives of any of the 3 concentrations
11
Biomedical Engineering Premed Template

Version 1:
This version assumes that student will take an HASS course in summer school or have AP
credit.
Note: Student should take MCAT in late June-early July after Junior year
First Year
Fall
BIOL 1010
CHEM 1100
MATH 1010
PHYS 1100
Credit hours
Intro. To Biology
4
Chemistry I
4
Calculus I
4
Physics I
4
Spring
Credit hours
1
4
4
BIOL 2120
Intro to Cell & Molecular Biology
4
Hum. or Soc. Sci. Elective (Writing Course)
3-4
Second Year
Fall
Credit Hours
ENGR 1100 Intro to Eng. Analysis
4
4
MATH 2400 Intro Differential Equations 4
Concentration I
3-4
Spring
Credit Hours

Concentration II
Concentration III
4
4
4
4
Third Year
Fall
Credit hours

Concentration IV
Organic Chem. I
4
4
4
4
Spring
Credit hours

Concentration V
Organic Chem II
Professional Development II
4
3
3
4
2
Fourth Year
Fall
Credit hours

Concentration VI
Concentration VII
4
4
3-4
4
Spring
Credit hours

Concentration VIII
Concentration IX
3
3-4
1
3-4
4

1
Placement of humanities and social science electives can be varied with free electives. The courses counted as free
electives must show a minimum of twelve (12) credit hours.
2
Professional Development II will be fulfilled from a published list at the start of each semester and can be taken
either semester. Professional Development III can be taken either semester of the senior year. Professional
Development I is part of ENGR 2050.
12
Capstone writing-intensive course.
Version 2: If student can not complete version 1

Note: Student should take MCAT in late June-early July after Junior year

First Year
Fall
Credit hours
BIOL 1010 Intro. To Biology
4
4
MATH 1010 Calculus I
4
PHYS 1100 Physics I
4
Spring
Credit hours
1
4
CHEM 1200 Chemitry II
4
BIOL 2120 Intro to Cell & Molecular Biology
4
Hum. or Soc. Sci. Elective (Writing Course)
3-4
Second Year
Fall
Credit Hours
ENGR 1100 Intro Engineering Analysis
4
4
MATH 2400 Intro to Differential Equations 4
Concentration I
3-4
Spring
Credit Hours

Concentration II
Concentration III
4
4
4
4
Third Year
Fall
Credit hours

Concentration IV
Organic Chem. I
Professional Development II2
4
4
4
4
2
Spring
Credit hours

Concentration V
Organic Chem II
4
3
3
4
4
Fourth Year
Fall
Credit hours
4
Concentration VI
4
Concentration VII
3-4
4
Spring
Credit hours
3
Concentration VIII
3-4
1
Concentration IX
3-4
4

1
Placement of humanities and social science electives can be varied with free electives. The courses counted as free
electives must show a minimum of twelve (12) credit hours.
2
Professional Development II will be fulfilled from a published list at the start of each semester and can be taken
either semester. Professional Development III can be taken either semester of the senior year. Professional
Development I is part of ENGR 2050.
4
Capstone writing-intensive course.
13
EE and Biomedical Engineering Dual Major Curriculum Checklist
Class of 20___

NAME: _____________________________________________ E-mail: _____________________
FIRST YEAR
Fall Semester
Spring Semester
CSCI-1100 Computer Science I
4
ENGR 1200 Eng. Graphics & CAD1
MATH-1010 Calculus I
4
MATH-1020 Calculus II
ENGR-1100 Intro. to Eng. Analysis
4
PHYS-1100 Physics I

BIOL-2120 Intro to Cell & Molec. Bio

Hum., Arts or Soc. Sci. El. 4

Hum., Arts or Soc. Sci. El.

SECOND YEAR

4
ENGR 2600 Modeling & Analysis3
ENGR 2350 Embedded Control
4
ECSE 2010 Electric Circuits
4
BMED 2200 Modeling of Biomed. Sys.
MATH 2400 Intro. to Differential Eqns. 4
ECSE 2610 Cptr Comp & Operations

MATH 2010 Multivar Calc & Mat Alg

THIRD
YEAR

BIOL 4290 Human Physiological Sys. 4
BMED 4500 Advanced Sys. Physiology
ENGR 2050 Intro to Eng Design
4
ECSE 2210 Microelectronics Tech.
ECSE 2410 Signals & Systems
3
ECSE 2050 Intro Electronics
ECSE 2100 Fields & Waves I
4
ECSE 2XXX Electrical Energy Systems

ECSE 2800 Sensing and Imaging

2

FOURTH YEAR

4
ECSE 4900 ECSE Design
ENGR 4010 Professional Devpmt III1 1
OR

EE Elective I

BME 4600 BME Design

BME Elective
3

EE Concentration II

Free Elective I3
4

EE Restricted Elective
2

Professional Dev II
2

Free Elective II3
1
1
4
4
4
4

3
4
4
4
4

4
3
4
4
3

3

3
3-4
3-4

May be taken either term.

May be taken in the third year
3
May be replaced with ECSE 2500 Engineering Probability (ECSE 2140 is a co-requisite, so it should be taken in the 5th
semester)
135 credits minimum

EE RESTRICTED ELECTIVE Students must select two courses in one of the concentration areas. See ECSE homepage.
2
ECSE 4XXX, ECSE 6XXX, or ENGR 4XXX

14
BME CONCENTRATION ELECTIVE - Selected to satisfy the BME Concentration requirements. Students should
consult their BME advisor in selecting this course.
Mechanical/Biomedical Eng. Dual Degree

FIRST YEAR
FALL

credit hours
ENGR-1100
Intro to Eng. Analysis
CHEM-1100
Chemistry I
ENGR-1200
Eng. Graphics & CAD1
MATH-1010
Calculus I
HASS
HASS Elective

4
4
1
4
4
17
SPRING

ENGR-1300
ENGR-1600
MATH-1020
PHYS-1100
BIOL-2120

credit hours
1
Engineering Processes
Materials Science for Engineers
Calculus II
Physics I
Intro Cell and Molecular Biology

4
4
SPRING
ENGR-2250
ENGR-2050
Thermal & Fluids Eng. I

Intro. To Eng. Design2
4
4
4
4
1
17
BMED-2961
BMED-2090

Biomaterials Sci & Eng

Engineering Dynamics

4
4

16
SPRING
ENGR-2350
Embedded Control
3
2
4
4
17
BMED-2200
HASS
MANE-4010
MANE-4020

Modeling of Biomed Systems

HASS Elective
Thermal & Fluids Eng II
Thermal & Fluids Eng Lab

4
4
4
2
18
1
4
4
4
4
17

SECOND YEAR
FALL
MATH-2400
Intro Differential Equations
PHYS-1200
Physics II
ENGR-
2530/BMED-
Strength of Materials OR
2540
Biomechanics
HASS
HASS Elective
CSCI-1190
Beginning C Programming

THIRD YEAR
FALL
ENGR-4300
Electronic Instrumentation
Modeling & Analysis of
Uncertainty
ENGR-2600

Professional Development II3
BIOL-4290
Human Physiological Sys
HASS
HASS Elective

FOURTH YEAR
FALL
MANE-4050
MANE-4030
MANE-4040
Mod. & Control of Dyn. Sys.

Elements of Mech Design
MECH Systems Lab
4
4
2
SPRING
BMED-4600/
MANE-4260
BMED-4240
BMED-4500
BMED-4010
HASS
Bioengineering Lab
HASS Elective
4
4
MATH-2010
ENGR-4010
Biomedical Eng Design4 OR

Design of Mechanical Systems4
Tissue-Biomaterial Interactions
Advanced Systems Physiology
Multivariable Calculus and Matrix
Algebra
Professional Development III
18
3
3
4
4
1
15
15
Pre requisite chart

Course
Biology and physiology:
BIOL 2120 Cell and Molecular Biology
BMED 4500 Adv Systems Physiology
Pre requisite
none
none
BIOL 4290
Math:
MATH1010 Calculus 1
MATH1020 Calculus 2
MATH2400 Diff Equations
none
MATH1010
MATH1020
Physics:
PHYS1100 Physics 1
PHYS1200 Physics 2
none
PHYS1100, coreq MATH1020
Chemistry:
CHEM1100 Chem 1
none
Engineering Core Courses:

ENGR1100 IEA
ENGR1200 CAD
CSCI1190 C Programming
ENGR2050 IED
ENGR2600 MAU
PD2 PSYC4170
STSS4840
ENGR4010 PD3
none
none
none
ENGR1100, ENGR1200, co-req PHYS1200
MATH1010
junior or senior standing
ENGR 1010
senior standing
BME Core:
BMED2200 Mod of Biomed Systems
BMED4010 BME Lab
BMED4600 BME Design
MATH2400, PHYS1200, CSCI1190

BMED2290, BMED4500
senior standing
BME Concentration Courses:

ENGR1600 mat science
BMED2100 biomaterials
BMED4540 biomechanics
ENGR2250 thermals and fluids 1
BMED 4240 Tissue Biomaterials Interaction
BMED4960 biomechanics of soft tissues
BMED4961 biomaterials apps in medicine
BMED4963 clinical orthopedics
BMED4964 biomedical fluid mechanics
BMED4962 advanced biomechanics
CHEM1100
none
none
ENGR1100, PHYS1100, coreq MATH2400
coreq BMED2100
senior standing
BMED2100, BMED4240
BMED4500
ENGR 2250
BMED4540
16
BMED4410 Biomems
BMED4968 Muscle mechanics and modeling
BMED4440 Biophotonics

Junior or Senior standing

none
PHYS1200
Registration
When: Registration for the Spring semester generally occurs in early November.
Registration for the Fall semester occurs the preceding Spring, usually in early April
Exact dates are included in the Academic Calendar.
How: Use the Student Information System (SIS) to register for your courses.
Where: There are no assigned rooms for registration. You can register for your classes using any
computer with Internet access.
Time tickets
As a student here at Rensselaer, you are issued a "time ticket," which assigns
School of Engineering
you a specific window of time during which you may register for the next
Freshman
0 - 30
semester. Your time ticket will be sent to your RPI email address, 2 - 3 weeks
before registration.
Sophomore 31 - 60
Your registration time is assigned based on the number of credit hours you
have earned as a student. The table to the right shows the range of earned
Junior
61 - 95
credit hours associated with each class. Please note that classes which are still
Senior
96 - 128
in progress or courses which have been graded as "incomplete" do not count
towards earned credits, nor do transferred courses and Advanced Placement
(AP) credit.
You should receive your time ticket via e-mail approximately four weeks prior to the scheduled
registration period. In addition to making the registration assignment, this e-mail message notifies you of
any existing holds which may prevent you from registering if you do not resolve them.
CAPP reports
Your Curriculum Advising and Program Planning (CAPP) report is a planning and advising tool -available only to undergraduate students -- that allows you to track the progress you're making toward
your Bachelor's Degree. You can access your CAPP report via the main menu of the Student Information
System (SIS).
FAQs for registration
What do I do if a class I want to register for is full?
Meet with the instructor of the course and request to be admitted to the course. If the class is a
core/required course every effort will be made to accommodate the request. If this is an elective course
you may be asked to take it in a subsequent semester. . In the case of Biomedical Engineering classes, you
may also see Dr. S. Reisman in room JEC7048 for advice.
How do I add/drop a course?
You may use the Student Information System (SIS) to add or drop courses. Generally speaking, from the
beginning of the semester, you will have two weeks to add courses and eight weeks to drop them.
Please refer to the Academic Calendar for specific add and drop deadline dates.
17
If you wish to petition to add or drop classes after the published deadline, you may do so using a Late
Add/Drop Form. Please note that after the instructors signature (if required), the form must also be
approved by the Advising and Learning Assistance Center.
18
Professional and Student Societies

There is currently a very active student chapter of the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES). The
chapter plans many activities throughout the school year including informational meetings, studentfaculty mixers, lunches with faculty, and field trips to local industry. The faculty advisor for the chapter is
Dr. James Cooper.
Students who become members of the student chapter of the BMES will also receive literature from the
National BMES.
Alpha Eta Mu Beta, the Biomedical Engineering Honor Society, is currently being formed at RPI. Stay
tuned for further details on this society.
19
Undergraduate Research Program (URP)

Rensselaer's Undergraduate Research Program (URP) provides real-world, hands-on research experience
for students like you. Through this unique program, you have the opportunity to work directly with a
faculty member on a bonafide research project.
The program offers many advantages and the opportunity to:
work on a project whose impact could be worldwide and can lead to patents and/or grants
interact with some of the most informed and learned professors in the world
apply knowledge gained in the classroom to actual problems and research situations
network with faculty beyond the classroom, opening the door to other opportunities
gain critical leadership, team-building and critical thinking skills
establish industry connections that could lead to a co-op or future employment
distinguish yourself from your peers
publish as an undergraduate
receive course credit in a more dynamic way or supplement your income
http://undergrad.rpi.edu/update.do?catcenterkey=77
URP application: http://undergrad.rpi.edu/update.do?artcenterkey=117
Rensselaer has a very strong Undergraduate Research Program. This is a program that allows students to
work in a professors laboratory for credit, cash, or experience. On average, we have 30% of the class
taking advantage of these opportunities during their Rensselaer career.
Some examples of projects students have been involved in include:
Study of Spinal Sclerosis
Mechanical Loading of the Lumbar Spine
Schwann Cell Migration
Cell Based Cancer Research
Soft Tissue Engineering
Vascular Regulation
The program offers many advantages and the opportunity to:
work on a project whose impact could be worldwide and can lead to patents and/or grants
apply knowledge gained in the classroom to actual problems and research situations
network with faculty beyond the classroom, opening the door to other opportunities
gain critical leadership, team-building and critical thinking skills
publish as an undergraduate
receive course credit in a more dynamic way or supplement your income
How to find a project
Most URP projects are found through direct contact with the faculty member supervising the research.
Most undergraduates find projects from faculty members from whom they have taken classes. A good
place to start your search is to determine a faculty member with whom you may want to work on a
project. Check their website to investigate their field of research. If it sounds interesting, approach them
about a possible URP project
.
20
What if I have my own idea for a project?

You may work with a faculty member on an existing research project or on a project based on your own
ideas. If you want to pursue your own project, find a faculty advisor who may be interested in your topic
since you will be required to have a project advisor.
For credit, funding or the experience?
You can earn from one to four credit hours per semester for your participation in the URP. The number of
credit hours you earn is negotiable between you and your faculty sponsor. If you choose this option you
and your sponsor need to:
Determine how many credit hours you will earn
Decide exactly what is expected of you, such as your time commitment, the type of work to be
submitted, etc.
Agree on how your grade will be determined
In the past, students who have participated in the URP for pay have earned up to $3,000 per
semester. The majority of participants earn $400 per semester.
URP funding comes from two sources:
Your sponsoring faculty member or department
The Office of Undergraduate Education
The faculty sponsor or department is responsible for the financial support of your research. In addition,
the Office of Undergraduate Education pays URP participants a maximum of $400 per semester in the
form of matching funds.
Most projects expect eight to twelve hours of work per week.
The URP application should be submitted to the Department Coordinator, Pam Zepf; who:
Checks the URP Application for completeness
Fills out your payroll paperwork
Forwards your application and payroll paperwork to the Office of Undergraduate Education for
approval
Will set up a schedule for reporting your hours. You must submit your hours to the Department
Coordinator within the same payroll period that you worked. Please keep in mind that if you work
and submit hours that exceed your funding allotment, you will not be paid for those hours. Pay
checks are issued every other Friday
Applying for the Experience
No deadline specified. You would have the opportunity to apply to gain the experience of working on a
research project.
21
Biomedical Engineering Department

Research Areas and Related Faculty

Vascular Engineering
Neural Engineering

Musculoskeletal
Engineering
Multiscale Modeling
and Imaging
Dr. James Cooper
Dr. David Corr
Dr. Guohao Dai
Dr. Xavier Intes
Dr. Eric Ledet
Dr. Robert Spilker
Dr. Deanna Thompson
Dr. Deepak Vashishth
Dr. Badri Roysam
Dr. George Xu
Dr. Birsen Yazici
Joint Faculty
Dr. George Plopper
22
Study Abroad for Biomedical Engineering Majors

The Study Abroad opportunity available at Rensselaer is an excellent experience for both your
professional and personal growth. However, planning is required to minimize the impact on your
graduation plans. In most situations, the time away does not delay graduation.
Depending on your AP and transfer credits, dual major or co-terminal plans, and in consultation
with your academic advisor, you may choose to study abroad either in your sophomore year or
junior year.
For BMED-specific course equivalents, please check the Transfer Equivalency Catalog listing,
which can be found on the Log In page of the Student Information System (SIS):
http://sis.rpi.edu/
You are encouraged to choose from this list of pre-approved courses. If you are considering
coursework that does not appear on the pre-approved list, please provide the course description
from the university abroad and a syllabus for that course. A prior approval form has to be
completed and signed by the International Adviser of the Department. The forms are available on
the Registrars website http://www.rpi.edu/dept/srfs/transfer_credit_approval.pdf , or from the
BMED Department Office in JEC 7049. From a student perspective, this prior approval is the
'guarantee' you should have that coursework taken abroad will count towards your graduation
requirements at RPI.
In addition, you may transfer courses that will be used as Free electives or Humanities and Social
Sciences courses. You are encouraged to take Humanities and Social Science (H&SS) courses or
Free electives which are above the 1000 level here at RPI. Courses that the host university
considers to be junior level or senior level courses can usually be transferred into RPI.
Note: The system at RPI is based on 4 credit hour courses while many foreign universities rely
on 3 credit courses so one can wind up one credit short per course. You may therefore wind up
taking 2 courses to fill the credit hour requirement for one course at RPI with the extra credits
going to 'Free Elective' as a split course on the CAPP report.
International Programs
http://undergrad.rpi.edu/update.do?catcenterkey=81
Rensselaer Education Across Cultural Horizons, or REACH, is part of Rensselaers initiative to provide
all undergraduate students with an international experience. Initially launched in spring 2009 as an
exchange program for engineering students, REACH has evolved to include all international opportunities
for undergraduates, including semester-long study abroad and exchange opportunities, short-term and
faculty-led international programs, and other international experiences such as internships and service
23
learning. All students are encouraged and expected to take advantage of some sort of international
experience during their four-year undergraduate education.
Academic Requirements and Eligibility - Generally a 3.0 minimum GPA is required. More importantly,
students must make sure that a period of study abroad will not delay their graduation date. Although
students typically study abroad during the junior year, sophomores and seniors may be eligible.
Application procedures and deadlines - Generally an RPI study abroad application and official
transcript as well as an application from the host institution are required. Deadlines vary by program but
are typically September for spring and February for fall. You should begin the research process at least
one semester prior to the semester of application.
Fees and Billing - Students who participate in affiliated study abroad or exchange programs are charged
the cost of regular RPI tuition for their term(s) abroad. Some programs carry an additional fee. Unless
otherwise noted, transportation, housing and other living expenses are paid directly by each student and
are not billed by RPI.
Financial Aid - With the exception of work-study money, all forms of financial aid can be applied to
Rensselaer-affiliated programs. Students must maintain full-time status (the equivalent of 12 Rensselaer
credits or above) in order to be eligible for financial aid.
Grades and Credit - Full credit is granted for courses completed with a grade of C- or above. All courses
must be approved by the relevant academic department in order for the transfer of credit to take place.
With the exception of the Architecture programs, grades earned overseas are not factored into the GPA.
It is important for students to work with their advisor when applying to study abroad. Course mapping
for selected REACH programs has been completed but this has not been completed for all of the
universities involved. Mapping for the engineering focused schools can be found at:
http://sis.rpi.edu/trfequiv/transfer_equiv.pdf
Study Abroad FAQs can be found at: http://undergrad.rpi.edu/update.do?catcenterkey=124
24
Contact person for Undergraduate/Graduate

Each undergraduate student has their own faculty advisor who should be the first line of contact if there
are questions or problems. If your advisor is not available, you may contact Dr. S. Reisman in room
JEC7048 who is the advising coordinator for the department.
Graduate students may contact Dr. S. Dunn, Dean of the Graduate School with questions about the
graduate program.
Co-Terminal Degree and MS Degree

Students interested in pursuing a co-terminal Masters degree in Biomedical Engineering are
required to submit the following application materials to the Biomedical Engineering Department
for consideration (listed below). Upon review by the Biomedical Engineering Graduate
Committee, and approval by the department head, the application materials are sent for final
evaluation at the Graduate School where admission decisions are finalized and communicated to
the students. Students must apply before the end of their junior year and must have a GPA
> 3.2 for consideration to the co-terminal program. Co-terminal MS applications should be
submitted in duplicate (one original and one photocopy) to the BME departmental office (Ms
Pam Zepf; JEC 7048) in hard copy form (no emails/soft copies). Applications will be reviewed
on the first Monday of every month during the academic year.
Instructions for students pursuing a MS with Thesis or Project: Students are required to
identify a project or thesis advisor and complete a graduate plan of study with approval from
their project or thesis advisor.

Instructions for students pursuing a coursework MS: BME undergraduate students pursuing a
coursework based MS (that is MS without project/thesis) should complete a graduate plan of
study with the approval of their BME undergraduate academic advisor. Non BME
undergraduates should submit application with a self-determined plan of study satisfying the
BME MS degree requirements specified below and the Department Head will assign a BME
faulty as an academic advisor for the completion of their application and an MS degree.
The Biomedical Engineering M.S. degree program focuses on engineering fundamentals at an
advanced level can be obtained with or without a thesis. While pursuing the M.S. degree,
students are expected to register for and participate in Discussions in Graduate Research and
departmental seminars. In consultation with their faculty advisor, individuals must develop a Plan
of Study that satisfactorily meets Institute and Departmental requirements to earn the M.S.
degree. A grade of B or better must be achieved to fulfill a course requirement.
Students pursuing M.S. with thesis need to take a minimum of 24 coursework credits (18 at
6000 level) and are required to register for 4-6 credits of thesis with prior approval from a
Biomedical Engineering Faculty member to serve as thesis advisor. Twelve course work credits
must have a BMED prefix* (9 BMED coursework credits at the 6000 level). A minimum of 3
credits (1 course) of advanced life sciences (biology or physiology) and a minimum of 3 credits
(1 course) in advanced mathematics or statistics are required as well. The masters thesis should
contribute new knowledge to the field of study in Biomedical Engineering.
25
Individuals pursuing a M.S. without a thesis are required to earn a minimum of 30 credit hours
with a minimum of 18 coursework credit hours at the 6000 level. A minimum of 3 credits (1
course) of advanced life sciences (biology or physiology) and a minimum of 3 credits (1 course)
in advanced mathematics or statistics are required as well. 18 coursework credit hours must
contain the BMED prefix* (with 15 coursework BMED credit hours at the 6000 level) and be
technical in nature. Students may register for maximum of 1-4 credits toward a research project.
* Commercialization of Biomedical Technology cannot be applied toward the BMED required
coursework.

Co-Terminal FAQ's
Admission
1. When do I apply?
Co-terminal applications must be submitted before the end of applicants junior year. Applicants must
have 90 credits (in progress or earned) of coursework towards their undergraduate degree (101 credits for
Architecture students).
2. Where do I find a Plan of Study?
The Plan of Study is available on-line at the Office of Graduate Education website Plan of Study Form.
3. What if the courses I list on the Plan of Study change?
If the courses listed change, an updated plan must be filed with your Department, the Office of Graduate
Education, and the Office of the Registrar.
Financial Aid, Tuition and Fees

1. Can I receive both Undergraduate Financial Aid and Graduate TA/RA aid?
No - If you receive a Graduate TA/RA you are no longer eligible for undergraduate financial aid or the
co-terminal program.
2. Do I have to file a FAFSA for my 5th year to get the Undergraduate aid?
Yes - you must file a FAFSA, if you receive need based aid.
3. I have a TA from my department. Do I need to notify anyone?
No - your department works with the Office of Graduate Education to ensure that your TA is processed
appropriately. Once you accept a graduate TA, you are no longer eligible for undergraduate financial aid
or the co-terminal program.
Academic
1. When/how does a student get assigned a graduate adviser?
Co-terminal students will continue to work with their undergraduate adviser and should contact their
department to be assigned a graduate advisor.
26
2. How many credits will I be eligible to register for?

Since the primary degree you will be pursuing is your bachelor's degree, you will be eligible to register
for up to 21 credits.
3. Can I become a part-time student in the Co-Terminal Program?
Co-terminal student must remain as full time students and cannot shift to part-time status.
4. Should I apply for my undergraduate degree if I will be registered into an 11th semester?
If you are continuing into an 11th semester, you will no longer be eligible for undergraduate aid. You
should apply for your bachelor's degree at that point.
5. When do I receive my BS degree? I was supposed to graduate in May 2010 but I will be
completing 2 more semesters to receive my Master's degree under the co-terminal program?
You will receive both degrees at the end of your 10th semester. You should file a degree application with
the Office of the registrar for each degree at the beginning of the semester in which you will actually
graduate with both degrees. See the academic calendar for deadline information.
6. Can I use a course for both my undergraduate and graduate degree?
No - credits applied toward satisfying requirements of the undergraduate degree cannot be used to satisfy
the requirements for the master's degree.
7. I finished my 9th semester but decided not to continue in the master's program. How do I receive
my BS degree?
You must first, formally withdraw from the co-terminal program. This is done using the Graduate Student
Request for Change of Status form. You must then file a Degree Application for the next graduation date.
Rensselaer has three official graduation dates - the end of August, the end of December, and mid-May.
Check the academic calendar for application submission deadlines.
8. Can I still designate courses as Pass/No Credit?
Co-terminal students are subject to graduate degree program guidelines after they've earned the minimum
number of credits required for their bachelors degree (which will range from 124 to 128 depending on
the School). Any courses taken after a student has reached the minimum, will be subject to graduate level
policies, and graduate policies prohibit designating a graduate course as Pass/No Credit.
9. Can I participate in the Commencement ceremony with my class?
You must meet the criteria for participation and file a petition, available in the Registrar's Office.
Co-terminal application: http://admissions.rpi.edu/graduate/Co-TerminalBSMS_Application_and_Procedures.pdf

27

Ph.D. Program
The graduate program of the Biomedical Engineering (BME) Department at Rensselaer has been
accepting students from various disciplines, for example, with undergraduate degrees in biomedical
engineering, other engineering disciplines, mathematics, chemistry, physiology and biology. In order to
advance to doctoral status, graduate students in BME must satisfy three of the following requirements by
the beginning of the fourth semester and no later than the fifth semester:

(a) Take a minimum of 12 credits (3 credits minimum in each area) in three of the four categories:
1. Advanced Mathematics or Statistics (3-4 CR)
2. Advanced Life Science (Biology or Physiology) (3-4CR)
3. Technical Depth course (3-4 CR)
4. Advanced Laboratory Technique (3-4 CR).
(b) Maintain a grade point average of 3.5 or better.
(c) Choose a thesis advisor and identify a doctoral thesis topic.
(d) Write a short (three-page) preliminary research proposal.
(e) Must have published or submitted a conference abstract in the relevant research area
(f) Submit a NIH style Biosketch
A dossier containing supporting material satisfying the above requirement is to be submitted by the
student to the BME graduate committee via Ms. Ronnie Rowe (rower@rpi.edu) during the fourth
semester but no later than the end of the fifth semester. Students failing to submit the required
information may submit a petition before the end of the fifth semester to extend the period by the
maximum of one more semester. Such a request must be accompanied by a letter from their academic
advisor.
Following advancement, under the guidance of the advisor, the student should then form an
interdisciplinary Ph.D. thesis committee by the end of the second year and take a candidacy exam after
having published or submitting a peer-reviewed journal article, typically during the first semester of the
third year. The candidacy exam is essentially a presentation of preliminary results and a defense of a
thesis research proposal.
Near the completion of the students required course work, the oral candidacy examination and public
defense of the thesis are held as per the procedure described in the Rensselaer catalog.
Matriculation into the doctoral program is based upon prior demonstration of a high level of academic
achievement in graduate and/or undergraduate work. Advanced study and research are conducted under
the guidance of a faculty member of the Department of Biomedical Engineering and an interdisciplinary
committee. A total of 72 credits (30 course work credits and 42 credits of research) satisfies the
Departments and the Institutes residency and thesis requirements. A maximum of 8 credits at the 4000level (a maximum of two courses) may be applied to the 30 coursework requirement, with the remainder
of the courses at the 6000-level. Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA or better to meet the Institutes
requirements. These requirements are formalized in a Plan of Study that is prepared in consultation with
the students research advisor.
Please note that students have no more than seven years to complete their Ph.D.
Students who entered the program with a Masters have no more than five years to complete their Ph.D.
28
29
The minimum course work requirements are distributed as follows:

Credit hours
Advanced Mathematics or Statistics
3-4
(1 course)
Advanced Life Sciences
3-4
(1 courses)
21
(6-7 courses)
(Advanced Biology or Advanced Physiology)

Technical depth courses
(minimum of 3 courses should have the prefix BMED)

Advanced laboratory techniques
3-4
(1 course)
TOTAL
30
30
Frequently Asked Questions

a. When should I decide my BME concentration
Normally a student chooses his/her concentration during the second semester of the sophomore year. A
declaration form will be submitted to the registrar to declare the concentration.
b. When can I choose a minor.
A minor can be chosen anytime as long as the requirements for the minor can be completed before
graduation.
c. Can BME students do a premedical, or predental program
BME students can do pre medical or pre dental curricula during their undergraduate program at RPI. The
pre medical program is shown above in item. The pre dental program can be constructed with the aid of
the advisor.
d. Is it reasonable for BME students to graduate in four years.
It is not only reasonable but it is accomplished by a majority of students. The suggested four year
curriculum is shown above. Exceptions can occur if the student is taking a semester abroad or doing a
coop experience for one semester.
e. Can a BME dual major in ME , EE or other fields?
A BME student can dual major in other fields. The two most common dual majors are BME-EE and
BME-ME. Examples of the curricula for these dual majors is shown above. The student will have two
advisers, one from BME and the other from the dual major. Each advisor will see that the curriculum in
that major is completed. Normally the number of credits needed to complete a dual major is higher than
the number of credits needed to complete the BME major only.
f. Is the BME program accredited?
The BME program is accredited by ABET, the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology,
which is the organization that accredits all engineering programs.
g. To whom should I speak about doing a term abroad?
You may speak to your advisor, Dr. S. Reisman, (JEC7048) or contact the Office of International
Programs.
h. To whom should I speak about the premed requirements?
You may speak to either Dr. S. Reisman, room JEC7048 or Dr. E. Ledet, room JEC7044.
How do I find out about the URP program and who has open positions?
31
You can begin by speaking with your advisor or with Dr. S. Reisman (JEC7048). You can also speak with
faculty that are in the concentration area that you are interested in doing a URP.
j. If I do a coop, which semester should I choose and how will it affect my schedule?
Most students choose the spring semester of their junior year or the fall semester of their senior year for a
COOP. This will normally extend your time at RI by one semester.
k. What are the HASS requirements?
The total HASS core requirement is 22 credits. Included in these credits are the following:
A minimum of 2 4-credit courses in Humanities
A minimum of 2 4-credit courses in the Social Sciences
No more than 3 1000 level HASS courses may be applied to the HASS core
No more than 6 credits may be taken Pass/No Credit
At least one 4 credit course must be at the 4000 level
Depth requirement: 2 4-credit courses in the same H or SS subject area with at least one above the 1000
level and none on Pass/No Credit
2 credits must meet the Professional Development 2 requirement.
l. By when does a student need to choose a major?
Most students choose a major when entering their freshman year at RPI. For those students who do not
choose a major at that time, they become an undeclared student and are given an advisor who can guide
the student toward making an informed choice of major. This decision should be made by the end of their
freshman year.
32

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RENSSELAER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE

What is Biomedical Engineering

Contact List for Biomedical Engineering

Dr. Deepak Vashishth (vashid@rpi.edu)

Dr. Stanley Reisman (reisms@rpi.edu)

Dept. Coordinator (for URP)

Pam Zepf (zepfp@rpi.edu)

Dr. Stanley Dunn (dunns6@rpi.edu)

To know their advisor's office hours and advising schedule.

Required courses for B.S. in Biomedical Engineering

BMED 2100 - Biomaterials Science and Engineering

BMED 2200 - Modeling of Biomedical Systems

BMED 4010 - Biomedical Engineering Laboratory

BMED 4500 - Advanced Systems Physiology

BIOL 2120 - Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology

ENGR 1100 Introduction to Engineering Analysis

ENGR 1200 Engineering Graphics and CAD

ENGR 1300 Engineering Processes

ENGR 2250 Thermal and Fluids Engineering I

ENGR 4010 Professional Development III

ENGR 1600 Materials Science for Engineers

ENGR 1100 Intro to Engineering Analysis 4

ENGR 1200 Engineering Graphics & CAD

CSCI 1190 Beginning C Prog. For Engrs. 1

BMED 2200 Modeling of Biomedical Systems

BIOL 4290 Human Physiological Systems

BMED 4500 Advanced Systems Physiology

BMED 4010 Bioengineering Lab

BMED 4600 BME Design4

The total credit hours for the degree is 128-130

Biomedical Engineering Concentration Courses

Materials Science for Engineers (4CR) (F2)

2 approved technical electives to be chosen from this list

Materials Science for Engineers (4CR) (F2)

2 technical electives to be chosen from this list

Introduction to Cell and Tissue Engr. (S3)

Electric Circuits (4 CR) (F2)

For Bioimaging concentration, 4 technical electives to be chosen from this list

For Bioinstrumentation concentration, 4 technical electives to be chosen from this list

Biomedical Engineering Premed Template

BMED 2200 Modeling of Biomedical Systems

BIOL 4290 Human Physiological Systems

BMED 4500 Advanced Systems Physiology

BMED 4010 Bioengineering Lab

BMED 4600 BME Design4

The total credit hours for the degree is 129-134

Capstone writing-intensive course.

Version 2: If student can not complete version 1

BMED 2200 Modeling of Biomedical Systems

BIOL 4290 Human Physiological Systems

BMED 4500 Advanced Systems Physiology

The total credit hours for the degree is 129-134

EE and Biomedical Engineering Dual Major Curriculum Checklist

May be taken either term.

ECSE 4XXX, ECSE 6XXX, or ENGR 4XXX

Mechanical/Biomedical Eng. Dual Degree

Thermal & Fluids Eng. I

Biomaterials Sci & Eng

Modeling of Biomed Systems

Mod. & Control of Dyn. Sys.

Biomedical Eng Design4 OR

Pre requisite chart