To train the next generation of leaders in bioengineering, we've created an innovative teaching program that transcends boundaries between bioengineering, science, and medicine.
Our program has been consistently ranked among the nation’s top 10 bioengineering/biomedical engineering undergraduate programs since 2008.
Rice University is located in the heart of Houston, Texas, which is the fourth most populous city in the nation and home to a growing biomedical and technology industrial base. Our neighbors include the Texas Medical Center (TMC), the largest medical center in the world and the eighth-largest business district in the United States.
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Degrees Offered
* Program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET. Learn more about enrollments and degrees awarded for programs in the George R. Brown School of Engineering School.
Related Minors
By the Numbers
- #8 Best Biomedical Engineering Undergraduate Program, U.S. News & World Report
- 48% Undergraduate Students are Women, 2002-2018
- 11 NSF CAREER Award Winners
FAQs
- Why should I study Bioengineering?
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You may be interested in studying bioengineering if you enjoy applying engineering approaches to address current challenges involving human health.
- What do students do when they graduate with a bioengineering degree?
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Students in our major pursue a wide variety of employment opportunities. Most of our students after graduation attend medical school, a graduate program, or obtain a position directly in industry.
- If I am considering this major, what classes do I have to take this year?
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Please see the timetable for the bioengineering major available on the Department of Bioengineering website for the most recent information. A variety of courses in mathematics, chemistry, physics, and CAAM are required. Because the major is highly sequenced, it is important first year students enroll in all technical courses listed in order to graduate in four years.
- If I have AP credit, should I use it or are there classes I should consider retaking anyway?
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Your advisor can assist you in the best course selections for your particular situation. In general, it may be helpful for first year students with significant AP credit to consider enrolling in sophomore year classes such as BIOC 201 or MATH 211.
- How should I decide whether or not to use my AP credit?
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See above.
- Can I study abroad? If so, when is the best time?
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You can with careful planning. Most BIOE students do this in the spring of junior year. Some students may do this in the spring of the sophomore year. Please discuss your plans with the BIOE study abroad advisor.
- What kind of research opportunities are available to your students?
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Many to most of our undergraduates participate in undergraduate research. You may contact faculty directly about available opportunities.
- What extracurricular activities or projects do students in your program normally participate in?
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Student interests vary widely. A student chapter of the Biomedical Engineering Society is available. Many students participate in opportunities through the engineering design kitchen or Rice 360 (Global Health Institute).
- What do classes in Bioengineering normally look like?
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Classes include a wide variety of lecture and laboratory formats.
- Is the curriculum flexible enough for students to pursue other interests? i.e. Can I complete a minor, take classes outside the major or specialize further within the major?
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Students pursue many opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. Because the major requires a high number of hours, it is best to discuss your particular interests with an advisor.
- Are there any other things I should know about Bioengineering?
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We recommend you take advantage of the opportunities for undergraduate research with our talented faculty.