Bachelor of Science (BS) Biomedical Engineering Degree

Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering

Offered By: College of Engineering and Technology

The Benefits of Earning a BS in Biomedical Engineering Degree from GCU

Biomedical engineering is a broad, interdisciplinary field that merges the studies of biology, medicine and engineering. It’s a career path that is well-suited to curious students who want to advance human health and improve the lives of others. The Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering degree at Grand Canyon University (GCU) trains future biomedical engineers to make positive, meaningful contributions to the healthcare field.

This bachelor’s degree is offered by the College of Engineering and Technology. In this program, you will prepare to improve patient care by learning the principles of biomedical research, and the design, development and manufacture of medical and diagnostic devices. You’ll develop an understanding of related disciplines, including computer programming, physics and chemistry, while deepening your comprehension of biomedical engineering essentials.

The undergraduate biomedical engineering degree at GCU blends instructional coursework with real-world, hands-on learning experiences. You will graduate with a framework of professional skills relevant to the workplace. There is an emphasis on ethical decision-making and servant leadership. You are encouraged to explore topics through the lens of the Christian perspective.

ABET Accreditation

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The Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET. For more information on the accreditation of engineering programs and other university licensures, please visit our University Accreditation and Regulations page.

Courses Completed During an Undergraduate Biomedical Engineering Degree

Combine your passion for engineering innovations with an enduring commitment to make a positive contribution to the world. The rigorous STEM curriculum is enriched with coursework intended to develop your communication, project management, creativity, analytical reasoning and ethical problem-solving skills. You will have many opportunities to work collaboratively with your peers as part of a team working toward a shared objective.

In courses such as Medical Physiology, Biomaterials, Survey of Tissue Engineering and Biomedical Design Elements, you will acquire core competencies that include the following:

  • The normal function of human cells, tissues and systems and the biochemical functions between systems of the body
  • How biocompatible materials can be used to replace or come in contact with living systems, and how to draft regulatory-compliant documents pertaining to biomaterials
  • An overview of tissue scaffolding, tissue growth and the ethics of synthetic tissues
  • The design process of a marketable medical device, from problem definition through concept design, considering factors such as FDA regulation and medical product liability

In addition, during the bachelor’s in biomedical engineering at GCU, you will complete a two semesters-long capstone course series. For this, you will work in teams to develop an intensively researched project proposal that addresses a real-world problem. The work begun in the first semester is carried through to the second, in which you will have the opportunity to implement your design and present your applied research project prototype.

Career Possibilities for Biomedical Engineering Degree Graduates

Prepare for a rewarding and purposeful career in biomedical engineering by learning to address real-world problems as you work through a modern curriculum. Qualified biomedical engineers have many job opportunities available to pursue. Some of the career paths that may be related to this degree include:

  • Bioengineering
  • Biomedical engineering
  • Engineering teaching (postsecondary)

The undergraduate biomedical engineering degree can lay a foundation for you to pursue advanced degrees. A master’s or doctoral degree may pave the way for high-level career opportunities.

Biomedical Engineering Degree FAQs

It typically takes four years to complete a BS in biomedical engineering. In that time, you’ll complete core coursework, build a solid foundation of knowledge and be able to dive into biomedical specific courses and labs that will prepare you for your future career.

We offer the BS in Biomedical Engineering degree on campus, where, along with your classes, you can fully enjoy a traditional college experience and become integrated into our Christian campus community.

GCU is dedicated to making tuition affordable for all. To view an estimate of what a biomedical engineering degree from GCU could cost you, use our Net Price Calculator and visit our Tuition and Financial Aid page for more information.

TOTAL CREDITS & COURSE LENGTH:
Total Credits: 128
Campus: 15 weeks
[More Info]
TRANSFER CREDITS:
Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division
TUITION RATE:
Campus: $8,250 per semester [More Info]

Course List

General Education Requirements:
34-40 credits
Major:
90 credits
Open Elective Credits:
0-6 credits
Degree Requirements:
128 credits

General Education Requirements

General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.

Requirements

Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.

Course Options

  • UNV-103, University Success: 4
  • UNV-303, University Success: 4
  • UNV-108, University Success in the College of Education: 4

Requirements

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to construct rhetorically effective communications appropriate to diverse audiences, purposes, and occasions (English composition, communication, critical reading, foreign language, sign language, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of English grammar or composition.

Course Options

  • UNV-104, 21st Century Skills: Communication and Information Literacy: 4
  • ENG-105, English Composition I: 4
  • ENG-106, English Composition II: 4

Requirements

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to express aspects of Christian heritage and worldview. Students are required to take CWV-101/CWV-301.

Course Options

  • CWV-101, Christian Worldview: 4
  • CWV-301, Christian Worldview: 4

Requirements

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.

Course Options

  • MAT-154, Applications of College Algebra: 4
  • MAT-144, College Mathematics: 4
  • PHI-105, 21st Century Skills: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: 4
  • BIO-220, Environmental Science: 4

Requirements

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.

Course Options

  • HIS-144, U.S. History Themes: 4
  • PSY-102, General Psychology: 4
  • SOC-100, Everyday Sociology: 4

Required General Education Courses

Course Description

This is the first course of a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. The course assumes no prior knowledge of chemistry and begins with basic concepts. Topics include an introduction to the scientific method, dimensional analysis, atomic structure, nomenclature, stoichiometry and chemical reactions, the gas laws, thermodynamics, chemical bonding, and properties of solutions. Co-Requisite: CHM-113L.

Course Description

The laboratory section of CHM-113 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Experiments include determination of density, classification of chemical reactions, the gas laws, determination of enthalpy change using calorimetry, and determination of empirical formula. Co-Requisite: CHM-113.

Course Description

This course is founded in the application of mathematics to engineering problems and processes. The course begins with foundations in algebraic manipulation, progresses into trigonometric models, complex numbers, signal processing, introduction to matrices and system equations, differentiation and integration, and differential equations all applied to the solution to engineering problems. Course content cannot be met by a transfer course. Prerequisite: MAT-154. Co-Requisite: ESG-162L.

Course Description

The engineering math labs are the hands on applications of the foundational mathematics concepts applied to engineering problems in the engineering math course. The labs will apply algebra, trigonometry, matrices, differential and integral calculus, and differential equations to various engineering problems. Course content cannot be met by a transfer course. Prerequisite: MAT-154. Co-Requisite: ESG-162.

Course Description

This course introduces the fundamentals of the engineering design methodology and the product development process.. Students will learn the importance of listening to the voice of the customer and how to incorporate those desires into a product using design for X principles. Students will develop verification and validation tests and learn how those become formalized qualification or acceptance processes. Prerequisites: ESG-162 and ESG-162L or MAT-154 or higher subsequent math course.

Course Description

This course introduces students to engineering documentation, tolerances, and standards. Typical fabrication tools common in a machine shop and the impact those tools have on design details will be covered. The students will work on several multi-disciplined projects through the semester. Prerequisites: ESG-162 and ESG-162L. Co-Requisites: ESG-210 and ESG-251.

Course Description

This course is a study of biological concepts emphasizing the interplay of structure and function, particularly at the molecular and cellular levels of organization. Cell components and their duties are investigated, as well as the locations of cellular functions within the cell. The importance of the membrane is studied, particularly its roles in controlling movement of ions and molecules and in energy production. The effect of genetic information on the cell is followed through the pathway from DNA to RNA to protein. Co-requisite: BIO-181L.

Course Description

This lab course is designed to reinforce principles learned in BIO-181 through experiments and activities which complement and enhance understanding of macromolecules, cell membrane properties, cellular components, and their contribution to cell structure and function. Assignments are designed to relate cellular processes such as metabolism, cell division, and the flow of genetic information to cell structure. Co-requisite: BIO-181.

Course Description

This course covers the basics of managing an engineering project, including: project planning, initiating of the project, implementation of the project plan, and completion of the project. Students will learn how to pitch their idea for funding, both in written form and in oral form, as well as how to prepare a formal written funding proposal. The class will cover the basics of engineering economics and introduce how this topic is covered on the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. Throughout the semester, the students will use the management and economic concepts learned to develop a portfolio and proposal for a capstone project to be completed in the following year. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisites: ESG-210 and ESG-220.

Course Description

This course provides an overview of designing a marketable medical device. Students will design a biomedical system, component, or process to meet desired needs within realistic constraints. This includes the design process from problem definition through concept design. FDA regulation, human factors, system safety consideration, and medical product liability will be covered. Prerequisite: ESG-395.

Core Courses

Course Description

This is the second course of a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to demonstrate knowledge and/or skill in solving problems involving the principles of chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, and thermodynamics; understanding chemical reactions using kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamics; comparing and contrasting the principal theories of acids and bases; solving equilibrium involving acids, bases, and buffers; describing solubility equilibrium; describing terms associated with electrochemistry and solving problems associated with electrochemistry; and describing the fundamentals of nuclear chemistry. Prerequisites: CHM-113 and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115L.

Course Description

The laboratory section of CHM-115 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Experiments include determination of rate law, examples of Le Châtelier’s principle, the use of pH indicators, buffer preparation, experimental determination of thermodynamic quantities, the use of electrochemical cells, and qualitative and quantitative analysis. Prerequisites: CHM-113L and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115.

Course Description

This course provides a rigorous treatment of the concepts and methods of elementary calculus and its application to real-world problems. Topics include differentiation, optimization, and integration.  Software is utilized to facilitate problem analysis and graphing. Prerequisite: MAT-261 or ESG-162/162L.

Course Description

This course introduces students to the basics of computer programming. Students will learn to develop algorithms to solve engineering problems, and the implementation of those algorithms in the C language. This course will include using C program for embedded devices for interacting with the world around them. Topics include assembly language, C programming language, and real time programming. MATLAB will be taught in the course to introduce students to rapid development tools and allow for flexibility in prototyping. Concepts of Object Oriented (OO) programming will be included in the MATLAB section of this course. Hands-on activities focus on writing code that implements concepts discussed in lecture and on gaining initial exposure to common microcontrollers. Prerequisites: ESG-162 and ESG-162L or MAT-261.

Course Description

This course provides a rigorous treatment of the concepts and methods of integral, multivariable, and vector calculus and its application to real-world problems. Prerequisite: MAT-262.

Course Description

This course is a calculus-based study of basic concepts of physics, including motion; forces; energy; the properties of solids, liquids, and gases; and heat and thermodynamics. The mathematics used includes algebra, trigonometry, and vector analysis. A primary course goal is to build a functional knowledge that allows students to more fully understand the physical world and to apply that understanding to other areas of the natural and mathematical sciences. Conceptual, visual, graphical, and mathematical models of physical phenomena are stressed. Students build critical thinking skills by engaging in individual and group problem-solving sessions. Prerequisite: MAT-262. Co-Requisite: PHY-121L.

Course Description

This calculus-based course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-121 lecture course. Students are able to perform the proper analysis and calculations to arrive at the correct quantifiable result when confronted with equations involving gravity, sound, energy, and motion. Prerequisite: MAT-262. Co-Requisite: PHY-121.

Course Description

This course introduces students to the basics of computer-aided design. Students will learn to produce great designs using computer-aided design software. Topics include 2-D and 3-D design and modeling, mechanical tolerances, and electrical and mechanical design integration. Hands-on activities focus on the design and integration of different subsystems, electrical and mechanical. Prerequisites: ESG-162 and ESG-162L.

Course Description

This class will introduce statistical process control and teach proper engineering experimental design and analysis techniques. Concepts introduced will include process variability, statistical controls, factorial, blocking and confounding as applied to engineering problems. Prerequisite: MAT-262.

Course Description

This calculus-based course is the second in a 1-year introductory physics sequence. In this course, the basics of three areas in physics are covered, including electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics. The sequence of topics includes an introduction to electric and magnetic fields. This is followed by the nature of light as an electromagnetic wave and topics associated with geometric optics. The final topic discussed in the course is quantum mechanics. Prerequisites: MAT-264, PHY-121, and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122L.

Course Description

This course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-122 lecture course. Some of the topics students understand and analyze involve the relationship between electric charges and insulators/conductors, magnetism in physics, energy transformations in electric circuits, the relationship between magnetism and electricity, and how they relate to the medical industry. Prerequisites: MAT-264, PHY-121, and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122.

Course Description

This course focuses on solutions and qualitative study of linear systems of ordinary differential equations, and on the analysis of classical partial differential equations. Topics include first- and second-order equations; series solutions; Laplace transform solutions; higher order equations; Fourier series; second-order partial differential equations. Boundary value problems, electrostatics, and quantum mechanics provide the main context in this course. Prerequisite: MAT-253 or MAT-264.

Course Description

This course focus is on the analysis of two- and three-dimensional forces on a system in an equilibrium (static) state. Further, it discusses real world applications for static analyses via simple trusses, frames, machines, and beams. Additional topics covered include properties of areas, second moments, internal forces in beams, laws of friction, and static simulation in Solidworks. Prerequisite: PHY-121, PHY-121L, ESG-251.

Course Description

This course provides students with a strong foundation in core areas of electrical engineering. Students will learn the main ideas of circuits and their enabling role in electrical engineering components, devices, and systems. The course offers in-depth coverage of AC & DC circuits, circuit analysis, filters, impedance, power transfer, applications of Laplace transforms, and op-amps. Prerequisites: MAT-262, PHY-121 and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122, PHY-122L, EEE-202L.

Course Description

The laboratory section of EEE-202 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Hands-on activities focus problem solving using scientific computation tools, simulations, and various programming languages. Prerequisites: MAT-262, PHY-121 and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122, PHY-122L, EEE-202.

Course Description

This course introduces students to a continuum approach to biomechanics. Stress and strain relationships are mathematically derived and physically justified as applied to physiological/clinical examples. For material behaviors that are linear, elastic, homogeneous and isotropic, universal solutions are developed and explored for physiologically relevant examples. Finally, the universal solutions are applied to and tested in biological mimics. Prerequisites: MAT-364, ESG-251, PHY-121 and PHY-121L.

Course Description

This course covers the principles of thermodynamics, including properties of ideal gases and water vapors, and the first and second laws of thermodynamics. Additional topics include closed systems and control volume, basic gas and vapor cycles, basic refrigeration, entropy, and an introduction to thermodynamics of reacting mixtures. Students will analyze simple to complex thermodynamic problems. Prerequisites: MAT-264, PHY-121 and PHY-121L.

Course Description

This course introduces students to the guiding principles involved in biomaterials. Students will learn about the materials that are used to replace or come in contact with living systems. They also examine biocompatibility – the reaction of the human body to materials that are introduced. Additionally, a specific emphasis on the regulatory guidance of new biomaterials will be covered. Prerequisites: CHM-115, CHM-115L, and STG-330. Co-Requisite: BME-356L.

Course Description

This is the lab section of BME-356. Students engage in hands-on activities to experience how materials can be used to replace or come in contact with living systems. They also examine biocompatibility – the reaction of the human body to materials that are introduced. Additionally, students practice drafting regulatory-compliant documents. Prerequisites: CHM-115, CHM-115L, and STG-330. Co-Requisite: BME-356.

Course Description

This course is an introduction to fluid statics, laminar and turbulent flow, pipe flow, lift and drag and measurement technics. Students will learn control volume analysis. Prerequisites: ESG-251, PHY-122, PHY-122L, STG-330, and MAT-364.

Course Description

This course is the introduction to the dynamics of human movement based on the mechanics of motion. Students will learn the mechanical analysis of human motion such as joint models, human gait, and the effect of forces on the musculoskeletal structure in motion. Prerequisite: ESG-251, PHY-122/L, MAT-364.

Course Description

Apply the stochastic process to the modeling and solution of the engineering problems. The course introduces the students to modeling, quantification, and analysis of uncertainty in engineering problems; all building into an introduction to Markov chains, random walks, and Galton-Watson tree and their applications in engineering. Prerequisite: MAT-364.

Course Description

This course aims to introduce students to the concepts and challenges of engineering tissues which will receive greater depth in later semesters. This will include an overview of tissue scaffolding, biocompatibility, tissue growth, and the ethics of synthetic tissues. Prerequisite: ESG-162, ESG-162L, BIO-181, BIO-181L.

Course Description

This course introduces theory of measurement and analysis from biological systems. It explores the principles and use of transducers, data recording and analysis systems, and signal processing techniques. Students will develop and utilize instrumentation to measure or transmit physiological data using computer based data acquisition. Prerequisites: EEE-202, EEE-202L, and MAT-364.

Course Description

The first capstone course provides students the opportunity to work in teams to tackle real world applied research and design projects in their chosen area of interest. Students develop a project proposal, conduct a feasibility study, learn to protect intellectual property, develop teamwork skills, budgets, and a schedule for completing the project. Students conduct extensive research, integrate information from multiple sources, and work with a mentor through multiple cycles of feedback and revisions. Students use this course to further develop technical writing and business presentation skills. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisite: ESG-395.

Course Description

This course focuses on the normal function of human cells, tissues, and organ systems. Emphasis is placed on the interconnections and biochemical functions between systems of the body and maintenance of homeostasis. Minor emphasis is placed on the dysfunctions and resulting pathologies. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L. Co-Requisite: BIO-360L.

Course Description

This course involves the exploration of normal function of human cells, tissues, and organ systems through hands-on laboratory experimentation. Students develop a deeper understanding of the materials learned in BIO-360 using simulation software for human functions, systems, and pathologies. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L. Co-Requisite: BIO-360.

Course Description

The second capstone course provides students the opportunity to implement and present the applied research project designed, planned, and started in the first capstone course. The capstone project is a culmination of all the learning experiences in an engineering program. Students conduct extensive research, integrate information from multiple sources, and work with a mentor through multiple cycles of feedback and revision. Prerequisite: ESG-451.

Course Description

This course will explore the fundamentals of Medical Imaging and Image Processing from an engineering prospective. Students will learn the mechanisms behind different imaging modalities. Students will learn how to acquire, read, interpret, and process images generated from radiologic and optical means. Students will receive hands on training in many of the discussed modalities, and will leave the class understanding the factors which can effect the images created. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisite: BME-460. Co-Requisite: BME-480L.

Course Description

This course will explore the fundamentals of medical imaging and image processing from an engineering prospective. Students will learn the mechanisms behind different imaging modalities. Students will learn how to acquire, read, interpret, and process images generated from radiologic and optical means. Students will receive hands-on training in many of the discussed modalities, and will leave the class understanding the factors that can affect the images created. Prerequisite: BME-460. Co-Requisite: BME-480.

Course Description

This course is a continuation of Biomedical Design Elements I. It provides a comprehensive view of designing a marketable medical device. This includes the design process from prototype, and clinical testing for market readiness. Topics covered include FDA regulation, human factors, system safety consideration, and medical product liability. Prerequisite: BME-471.

Course Description

This course applies the knowledge and skills obtained from BME-460 (Biomedical Instrumentation and Devices & Lab) to measurements of organs and tissues. Clinical instrumentation and therapeutic and prosthetic devices are analyzed according to their design, manufacture and use. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required. Prerequisites: BME-460, BIO-360, and BIO-360L.

Course Description

This writing intensive course provides a comprehensive examination of the principles of heredity and variation, including Mendelian, molecular, and population genetics. Students explore topics such as gene mapping, DNA structure and replication, population genetics, and molecular change. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L.

Locations

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Join Grand Canyon University’s vibrant and growing campus community, with daytime classes designed for traditional students. Immerse yourself in a full undergraduate experience, complete with curriculum designed within the context of our Christian worldview.

* Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.

* Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change.

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