• Undergraduate Labs

  The undergraduate wet-lab teaching facility is located on the third floor of Engineering Terrace and provides a state-of-the-art, hands-on teaching facility. Some laboratory exercises will also take place within the premises of the university’s affiliated hospitals.
• Electives

  The undergraduate program in Biomedical Engineering is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET: http://www.abet.org.
• Senior Design

  The Biomedical Engineering Design course is a required, two-semester capstone course for undergraduate students. Students work in a team to tackle a real-world, open-ended design project in the biomedical field.

  More
• Undergraduate Research

  Undergraduate students have the opportunity to get involved in cutting-edge research within the Department of Biomedical Engineering.

  Many BME labs welcome qualified undergraduates to join their research teams, either through work-study or as paid research assistants. These hands-on experiences allow students to apply classroom knowledge, explore areas of interest, and contribute to ongoing innovations in the field.

  For more information on the work-study program, please visit Student Financial Services.
• Undergraduate Advising

  Advising in BME is centered on close interactions between students and BME faculty advisors, who provide counseling regarding the BME major, career planning, and student life. Students are assigned BME faculty advisors as soon as they enter the department.
• Non-Department Led Research

  Research conducted outside the BME department may count for BMEN E3998 credit if approved. In this case, students must register under their BME academic advisor, who will coordinate with the external research supervisor. To qualify:

  • The project must relate to biomedical engineering and include engineering content (confirmed with a short project description).
  • The external supervisor must confirm via email:
    • The student is not being paid.
    • The work is being done for credit.
    • 1 credit = 5 hours/week commitment (up to 3 credits per semester).
    • The student will receive a letter grade.
    • Assessment methods (e.g., final paper, presentation, or poster).
• Summer Research

  BME labs offer summer research positions through internships, research assistantships, and work-study. Students can receive technical elective credit by enrolling in BMEN E3998 during the summer.

  Additionally, many BME faculty participate in Columbia’s Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF). Qualified students are encouraged to apply.

• Education Objectives

  The Biomedical Engineering Department at Columbia University is dedicated to preparing our graduating students for the following:

  1. Professional employment in areas such as the medical device industry, engineering consulting, biomechanics, biomedical imaging, and biotechnology
  2. Graduate studies in biomedical engineering or related fields
  3. Attendance at medical or dental school
• Student Outcomes

  We strive to ensure that our students successfully attain the following:

  1. an ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics
  2. an ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors
  3. an ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences
  4. an ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts
  5. an ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives
  6. an ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions
  7. an ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.
• Undergraduate Enrollment and Graduation Data

  Graduates of our program go on to graduate studies, medical school, and employment. Students have gone onto sectors including pharmaceuticals, medical devices, diagnostics, governmental oversight organizations (FDA, NIH, OSHA, etc.), and even finance. Through the program, students can meet entrance requirements for graduate training in the various allied health professions. For instance, no more than three additional courses are required to satisfy entrance requirements for most U.S. medical schools, and can be chosen to also fulfill elective requirements for graduation.

  A statistical breakdown of each class is available below (numbers as of Fall 2023):

  	2018	2019	2020	2021	2022	2023
  Sophomores	36	35	40	44	44	40
  Juniors	49	41	44	55	53	57
  Seniors	48	52	40	47	55	54
  Total	133	128	124	146	152	151

Available Programs

• CS@CU MS Bridge Program in Computer Science

  The CS@CU MS Bridge Program in Computer Science is a well-established pathway for students without a formal undergraduate background in computer science. The program provides comprehensive preparation in programming, data structures, discrete mathematics, and core computing concepts.

  Students apply directly to the Bridge Program and, upon successful completion of the required coursework and GPA benchmarks, transition into the MS in Computer Science.

  Program structure

  • Part-time, non-degree Bridge program
  • Apply to the CS@CU MS Bridge Program via the graduate application
  • Transition to the MS upon successful completion
  • Not eligible for F-1 visa sponsorship during the Bridge phase

  CS@CU FAQ

  About the Computer Science MS
• IEOR MS Bridge Program

  The IEOR MS Bridge Program is designed to equip students for success in the Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) or the Master of Science in Management Science and Engineering (MS&E) programs. The Bridge Program provides a clear and structured pathway for students who may lack some of the quantitative, coding, or data science skills required for direct admission.

  Business Analytics MS Bridge Program

  The MS in Business Analytics Bridge Program is designed for students with strong academic or professional potential who need additional preparation in quantitative methods, computing, or data science before transitioning into the Master of Science in Business Analytics.

  Students apply directly to the Bridge Program and, upon successful completion, transition into the MS in Business Analytics.

  Program structure

  • Part-time, non-degree Bridge program
  • Apply to the Business Analytics MS Bridge Program via the graduate application
  • Transition to MS after Bridge completion
  • Not eligible for F-1 visa sponsorship during the Bridge phase

  Management Science and Engineering MS Bridge Program

  The Management Science and Engineering Program prepares students from non-engineering or partially quantitative backgrounds for advanced study in management science, optimization, analytics, and systems engineering prior to transitioning into the MS&E MS curriculum.

  Students apply directly to the Bridge Program and, upon successful completion, transition into the MS in Business Analytics.

  Program structure

  • Part-time, non-degree Bridge program
  • Apply to the Management Science and Engineering MS Bridge Program via the graduate application
  • Transition to MS after Bridge completion
  • Not eligible for F-1 visa sponsorship during the Bridge phase

  IEOR FAQ

  About the Master of Science in Business Analytics Program

  About the Master of Science in Management Science and Engineering Program
• Electrical Engineering MS Bridge Program

  The Electrical Engineering MS Bridge Program supports students from related quantitative or scientific backgrounds who lack formal electrical engineering training. Students complete targeted foundational coursework aligned with their intended area of specialization before transitioning fully into MS-level study.

  Program structure

  • Part-time, non-degree Bridge program
  • Apply to the Electrical Engineering MS Bridge Program via the graduate application
  • Transition to MS after successful completion
  • Not eligible for F-1 visa sponsorship during the Bridge phase

  ELEN FAQ

  About the Electrical Engineering MS
• Biomedical Engineering MS Preparation Pathway

  The Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering welcomes high-achieving students from a range of academic backgrounds, including other engineering disciplines (e.g., mechanical, electrical, civil) and allied sciences (e.g., biology, chemistry, physics, computer science). While Biomedical Engineering does not offer a formal Bridge Program, admitted students may be required to complete additional coursework—beyond the standard MS curriculum—if specific foundational gaps are identified during the admissions review.

  Program structure

  • Full-time or part-time MS enrollment
  • Apply directly to the Biomedical Engineering MS program. If additional preparatory coursework is required, it will be specified in the admission offer.
  • Eligible for F-1 visa sponsorship

  BME FAQ

  About the Biomedical Engineering MS
• Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics MS Bridge Program

  The Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics MS Bridge Program supports students without a civil engineering undergraduate degree by providing focused preparation in mechanics, fluids, structures, and related areas. Bridge requirements are determined at admission and completed prior to or alongside graduate coursework.

  Program structure

  • Full-time or part-time MS enrollment
  • Bridge coursework integrated into MS program
  • No separate Bridge application is required. Apply directly to the Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics Master of Science program.
  • Eligible for F-1 visa sponsorship

  CEEM FAQ

  About the Civil Engineering & Engineering Mechanics MS
• Chemical Engineering Scientist-to-Engineer (S2E) Program

  The Scientist-to-Engineer (S2E) program is an integrated pathway within the MS in Chemical Engineering for students without an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering.

  Students complete an intensive, accelerated set of undergraduate-level chemical engineering courses during their first semester, covering core concepts needed for success in the graduate curriculum. Degree completion is typically achieved in three semesters.

  Program structure

  • Full-time or part-time MS enrollment
  • Bridge coursework completed within the MS program
  • No separate Bridge application is required. Apply directly to the Chemical Engineering Master of Science program.
  • Eligible for F-1 visa sponsorship

  S2E FAQ

  About the Chemical Engineering MS
• Mechanical Engineering MS Bridge Program (Coming Soon)

  The Mechanical Engineering MS Bridge Program prepares students without an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering to enter the MS in Mechanical Engineering curriculum with confidence. The program emphasizes core areas such as mechanics, thermal fluids, design, and materials.

  Bridge requirements are assigned upon admission to the MS program and are completed prior to or alongside graduate coursework.

  Program structure

  • Full-time or part-time MS enrollment
  • Bridge coursework integrated into MS program
  • No separate Bridge application is required. Apply directly to the Mechanical Engineering Master of Science program.
  • Eligible for F-1 visa sponsorship
     

  About the Mechanical Engineering MS
• Computer Engineering Bridge Program

  The Columbia Computer Engineering MS Bridge program will enable students with undergraduate degrees in fields other than electrical engineering, computer engineering, and computer science to take preparatory courses before enrolling in the CE MS degree program. The Computer Engineering Bridge Program offers two distinct tracks, enabling students to acquire the essential foundational skills tailored to their specific interests within the MS curriculum. One track is designed for students aiming to specialize in Computer Systems (Track A), while the other prepares students for specializing in Computer Chip Design (Track B). Students complete targeted foundational coursework aligned with their intended area of specialization before transitioning fully into MS-level study. 

  Program structure

  • Part-time, non-degree program
  • Apply to the Computer Engineering MS Bridge Program via the graduate application
  • Transition to the Computer Engineering MS after successful completion
  • Not eligible for F-1 visa sponsorship during the bridge program

  CE FAQ

  About the Computer Engineering MS

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who should consider an MS Bridge Program?

  MS Bridge Programs are ideal for students with strong academic or professional records who may be missing specific undergraduate coursework required for direct entry into an engineering MS program.
   

• Do Bridge Programs lead to a degree?

  Yes, the goal is the students complete the corresponding Master’s of Science program they have been admitted to. Note that the Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Business Analytics, and Management Science + Engineering bridge programs are not degree-granting on their own. These serve as a pathway into a Columbia Engineering MS program, after which students complete degree requirements. The Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics, and Mechanical Engineering bridge programs are integrated into the MS program, and thus are degree-seeking programs. 

• Are Bridge students eligible for student visas?

  This will vary by program. Students enrolled directly in the Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics, and Mechanical Engineering bridge programs are eligible for F-1 visas

  Students in the Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Business Analytics, and Management Science + Engineering bridge programs are not eligible for F-1 visa sponsorship until they transition into the MS.

• Can Bridge requirements be waived?

  In many programs, previously completed coursework may be reviewed for possible waivers, typically requiring a minimum grade of B or higher.

• When are application deadlines?

  The priority deadline for most Bridge Programs is February 15. Applicants are encouraged to review individual program pages for the most up-to-date information.

• What materials are required to apply?

  The following materials must accompany the online application for on-campus graduate programs. 

  • Transcripts
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Personal Statement
  • Resumé or Curriculum Vitae
  • Video Interview
  • Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test Scores (optional)
  • English Language Exam Scores (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo) required for applicants educated in a country other than Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, the UK, Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, and the United States of America.
  • $85 non-refundable application fee (payable by a major credit card through the online application system)
• How do I apply?

  Interested students should apply using the On-Campus MS and PhD Programs application found here.

• Doctoral Admissions

  Applicants who already have a Master of Science degree or equivalent may apply directly to the doctoral degree program. All applicants are expected to have earned the bachelor’s degree in engineering or in a cognate scientific program.

  Applications for admission with financial aid are due in December for the fall semester in the next academic year. All applications must be submitted by mid-February for the fall semester and by the beginning of October for the spring semester. Final decisions for fall admissions will be sent out the week of April 15.

  Meet Our Faculty

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  Requirements

  Please refer to the School of Engineering and Applied Science's Graduate Admissions website for full application details.

  The Engineering School does not admit students holding the BS degree directly to doctoral studies; admission is offered either to the MS program or to the MS program/doctoral track. Admissions standards for the latter category are generally higher than for the former.

  Applicants holding an appropriate MS degree from another institution may apply directly to the doctoral program. The Department of Biomedical Engineering also admits students into the 4-2 program, which provides the opportunity for students holding a bachelor’s degree from certain physical sciences to receive the MS degree after two years of study at Columbia.

  Graduate Fellowships

  All graduate students are strongly encouraged to apply for individual fellowships, such as those awarded by the National Science Foundation and the Department of Defense. Students in our department have been highly successful in obtaining these awards and some (but not all) opportunities are listed below. Once admitted, our graduate fellowship advisor, Professor Lance Kam can provide more information on applying for external fellowships.
  
  Do not hesitate to contact individual faculty advisors to discuss application support.

  • National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships
  • U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)
  • Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans (For recent recipients of U.S. permanent residency status of citizenship)
  • Fulbright Programs for Foreign Students
  • Fulbright Programs for U.S. Students
  • Further resources

  Eligible master’s students from underrepresented minorities can apply for GEM Fellowships.
  
  Every year, we elect several of our most outstanding new applicants to receive a Presidential Fellowship from the Office of the Dean of Engineering. This prestigious award covers stipend and full tuition for graduate studies within the Department for a minimum of four years.

• MS leading to PhD Program

  The MS leading to PhD program provides an opportunity for bright students who have not yet received a Master's degree to apply to PhD studies at Columbia Biomedical Engineering. Once accepted, students will complete their MS degree requirements in conjunction with their PhD research with a faculty advisor in the lab.

  More
• Doctoral Committee and Thesis

  Each student is expected to submit a research proposal and present it to a thesis committee that consists of at least three faculty members.

  More
• Doctoral Qualifying Examination

  The Biomedical Engineering doctoral qualifying exam is an important evaluation of a student’s mastery of broad, coursework-based knowledge and their ability to analyze, synthesize, present, and discuss contemporary concepts in a specific area of research.

  More

Why Study Mining Engineering at Columbia?

• Global Energy Transition Focus

  Tackle the pressing challenge of sourcing minerals for renewable energy technologies and infrastructure.

• Modernized, Industry-Aligned Curriculum

  Our curriculum has been specially designed to reflect current industry practices, incorporating technical advances, emerging trends and vital soft skills such as strong teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills.

• A Legacy of Leadership

  Columbia's School of Mines, founded in 1864, laid the groundwork for engineering education in the U.S. Our Mining program continues that tradition with a renewed focus on climate and sustainability.

• Sustainability-Centered Engineering

  Learn to integrate environmental stewardship and community engagement into every phase of the mining lifecycle.

• Enhanced Career Prospects

  This specialized training will distinguish you from other engineering graduates, making you a highly sought-after professional in the mining industry.

  Our dedicated Assistant Director of Graduate Career Placement can provide you with expert advice both during your studies and after graduation. You’ll receive personalized career guidance, application support, tailored workshops, and access to exclusive job opportunities within the earth and environmental engineering sector and beyond. 

  With strong industry connections, we also facilitate networking events and internships that give you the experience and confidence to stand out in the competitive job market.

• Major or Minor in Mining Engineering

  If you are interested in our department but want to major in another field, you can still minor in Mining Engineering. Due to our broad and multidisciplinary scope, a number of our courses are already required across other engineering departments. As well as developing interdisciplinary knowledge, this structure will ensure your workload is manageable.

Requirements

• Application Requirements

  What we look for:

  • Transcripts and school reports. We accept all secondary school qualifications (AP, International Baccalaureate, Cambridge A Levels, National School curricula, etc.). We do not have standardized requirements or “cut-off” test scores for first-year admission but we do expect to see coursework in physics and calculus.
  • Teacher recommendations. We would like to learn more about your contributions in the classroom and at school, as well as what you might offer to your Columbia classmates.
  • Responses to our Columbia-specific application questions. Your answers will provide us with insight into your intellectual interests and the way in which your curiosity and sense of community might translate to Columbia’s campus.
  • A personal statement. We review applications in context, taking into account the multiple, intersecting ways that you have been shaped by your family circumstances. Understanding who you are, what your home responsibilities are, whether you have experienced any systemic and situational barriers and advantages will ensure we can review your application fairly and accurately.
  • English language proficiency. If your home language is not English or if your secondary school studies were predominantly in another language, you will need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency. Visit our English Proficiency Requirements for accepted exams and minimum score requirements.

  How to Apply

• Degree Requirements

  BS in Mining Engineering

  To graduate from our BS program you must complete:

  • 18 credits (approximately six courses) of technical Mining Engineering electives during your final two years.
  • The Columbia liberal arts core. This is typically satisfied during the first two years, although you can undertake non-technical electives during your final two years.

  Minor in Mining Engineering

  To earn a minor in Mining Engineering, you must complete:

  • Six courses selected from a specified list approved by your undergraduate advisor.