Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering – Faculty of Engineering

Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering

A unique integrated program delivered jointly by the Faculties of Engineering and Health Sciences, combining Mechanical Engineering with biomedical applications to design the systems of tomorrow.

This program is in partnership with the Faculty of Health Sciences.
Length
5 years
Degree
Bachelor of Engineering & Biomedical Engineering (Co-op Available)
Program
Integrated Biomedical Engineering & Health Sciences (iBioMed)
Options

Co-op

Program highlights

Mechanics is a branch of physics that deals with the interaction of forces on a physical body and its environment. Biomechanical engineering focusses on the effects of physical forces on biological structures and materials in the areas of fluid mechanics, solid mechanics, dynamics, and manufacturing, and the application of these to human health.

Bio-fluid mechanics

Our specialization in bio-fluid mechanics includes blood flow in cardiovascular health, and microfluidics in the development of “organ-on-chip” and “lab-on-chip” devices for drug discovery, medical / environmental diagnosis and drug delivery.

Dynamics

The area of dynamics covers how the body responds to forces including injuries to impact forces, and how to design protective measures (e.g. padding and helmets) to prevent injuries or to improve human performance.

Solid mechanics

Concepts in solid mechanics are used to examine the transmission of forces through tissues in the body to help understand tolerance limits (e.g., fracture and failure limits), how biological adaptation to mechanical loading occurs, and how to develop tissue replacements such as orthotics, artificial implants, or engineered biological tissues.

Manufacturing

The area of manufacturing covers development and use of advanced manufacturing methods to build biomedical microdevices, metal and polymer implant devices, tissue constructs and scaffolds as well as artificial organs.

Admission requirements

Academic Prerequisites

This is an above level 1 specialization that requires successful completion of the iBioMed 1 (IBEHS1) general first year.

Use the Future Students admissions tool for entry requirements.

How to Apply Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering degree requirements (Opens in new window)
Students examining solar cell material

Your first year

All students in McMaster’s undergraduate Integrated Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences program share a common first-year, iBioMed 1.

iBioMed 1 provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of engineering and biomedical disciplines. Students take real problems in society and learn the technical and teamwork skills to solve them.

After the initial year, students may opt for a biomedical-focussed Engineering discipline, leading to a BEngBME with choices in chemical, civil, electrical, engineering physics, materials, mechanical, mechatronics, and software engineering, or the Health, Engineering Science, and Entrepreneurship (HESE) program which blends engineering, health sciences, and business, culminating in a BHSc.

Explore all of our degree path options before choosing a focus discipline for second year and beyond.
Explore iBioMed 1

Co-op and experiential learning

Experiential learning provides students with hands-on opportunities beyond the traditional lecture-style format to gain valuable experience.

The Engineering Co-op Program is an optional program which provides you with the opportunity to work in real engineering positions before you graduate. The Undergraduate Co-op Program is administered by the Engineering Co-op and Career Services Department (ECCS).

Example employers:

  • Magna International
  • Stackpole International
  • Loblaw
  • Ontario Power Generation

Learn more about co-op.

McMaster Engineering has many engineering clubs, teams and societies you can join to enhance your practical knowledge and soft skills, provide support, or give you the chance to explore new activities. Clubs are an enjoyable way to enrich your student life and contribute to your social development and academic success.

  • EcoCAR
  • Formula Electric
  • Baja Racing
  • Solar Car Project

Browse opportunities to get involved and gain experience.

The iBioMed program at McMaster provides hands-on learning from the start, with students tackling real-world projects, pitching ideas, and building prototypes. They progress through project-based courses, culminating in a comprehensive Capstone Design Project, and showcase their work in iBioMed Showcases. This practical experience, captured in personalized portfolios, equips them with leadership skills and a problem-solving mindset, making them excellent candidates for co-op positions and future leadership roles.

Find out more

Explore the experiences catalogue

Careersand research

Example career paths:

  • Biomechanics
  • Renewable energy
  • Advanced manufacturing in automotive and aerospace industries
  • Mechanics and design
  • Thermal fluid science

Research areas:

  • Advanced Manufacturing
  • Biomechanics
  • Mechanics and Design
  • Thermo Fluid Sciences

Need moreinformation?

How to apply

Understand every step, from applying, to accepting your offer and joining us on campus!

How to apply

Department of Mechanical Engineering

We’re applying principles of physics for analysis, design, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems.

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