Discover the principles and technologies that have led to biomedical engineering becoming essential in healthcare, medicine and human biology. Suitable for intercalating medical students and graduates in life sciences, this master's degree combines knowledge of biomechanics and fluid mechanics in the human body with engineering design innovations.
Introduction
Biomedical engineering, the application of engineering knowledge and skills to healthcare, medicine and human biology, is the fastest growing engineering discipline worldwide.
Contributing to the future development of artificial organs, medical devices and novel treatments, the School of Engineering is home to internationally recognised, ground-breaking research in biomedical engineering. This programme harnesses this expertise in key areas around biomechanics, cardiovascular fluid mechanics, tissue engineering, biomaterials, engineering design and manufacturing.
You’ll discover how to measure and analyse human movement, learn the principles of blood flow and the role of different bio-fluids in the human body, and gain an understanding of the structures and properties of materials used in medical devices.
Immersing you in computer aided design and engineering product design, we’ll introduce the latest 3D tools and techniques and task you with the development of innovative products and creative solutions.
Accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, the programme includes a supervised independent research project. This provides the opportunity to enhance your skills and knowledge in an area of biomedical engineering of your choice, supported by our specialist research facilities.
Who is this course for?
This programme is designed for intercalating medical students and graduates in life science subjects who want to develop specialist skills and knowledge in biomedical engineering. You’ll combine this expertise with insights into effective leadership and management.
What you'll learn
Cardiovascular fluid mechanics in the human body, including the importance of blood flow
Biomechanics of the musculoskeletal system, including how to measure and analyse human movement
The structures and properties of materials used in medical devices
Applications of tissue engineering to the development of the next generation of smart-implantable medical devices
Key principles of engineering product design
Computer aided design methodologies, tools and techniques
Material manufacturing and processing technologies
Transferable skills in problem solving, critical analysis, teamwork and communication.
Accreditation
This programme is accredited by the Institute of Mechanical Engineering (IMechE), the professional body for mechanical engineers in the UK. This means that successful completion of the programme will put you on track to gain Chartered Engineer (CEng) status in the UK.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Semester one
Compulsory modules
STRUCTURAL BIOMATERIALS (MATS410)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This modules covers topics related to the structure and properties of materials that are used in medical devices, including metals and alloys, polymers and ceramics. Corrosion and polymer degradation is also covered.
COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN (MNFG604)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
To introduce the student to the latest 3D tools and techniques used by designers.
To develop a wider knowledge and understanding of integrated systems design.
To stimulate an appreciation of modern design and development methodologies.
Group Engineering Design (MECH401)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: whole session
To present the fundamental principles of Engineering Product Design according to the Total design methodology.
To engage students in a multi-disciplinary group project to develop and justify an innovative engineering solution/product that is part of a grand challenge which is formulated from complex and uncertain factors.
To develop students team working, communication, project management, problem solving and critical evaluation skills.
To formulate a theoretical novel solution that is supported by valid evidence and meets an authentic need.
TECHNICAL WRITING FOR ENGINEERS (ENGG596)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
To develop technical writing skills for engineers. English Language Centre deliver the module for non-native English speakers, Engineering staff deliver identical syllabus, assessments and learning outcomes for other students.
Cardiovascular Physiology and Mechanics (ENGG415)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: whole session
This module will commence with an introduction to cardiovascular anatomy and physiology. The module will then progress to cover the behaviour of biofluids under flow will be studied with particular emphasis placed on the flow of blood ("haemodynamics"). In particular blood flow in relation to cardiovascular prostheses and devices, including heart valves, cardiac assist devices, and arterial bypass grafts, will be explored.
Optional modules
MATERIALS PROCESSING AND SELECTION (MATS520)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module introduces the relationships between materials properties and the influence of processing on them. A range of manufacturing processes is considered for ceramics, polymers, metals and composites. The Granta – Cambridge Engineering Selector software is used to inform the selection of materials processing and the inter-relationships with design.
Additive Manufacturing (MNFG603)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module aligns our graduates with the market needs. The UK additive manufacturing market was valued at 0.54 billion pounds sterling in 2022 and is predicted to reach 2.01 billion pounds sterling by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate of 18.0% from 2023 to 2030.
Introduction to Ethics in Healthcare (MDSC402)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 1
In their joint ‘Statement of Ethical Principles’(1) the Royal Academy of Engineering and the Engineering Council have called upon engineers to undertake their work with the highest ethical standard and to exercise careful moral judgment in all working situations.
This module has been specifically developed as part of a Master’s Programme in Bio-medical Engineering to provide students studying at the interface of technology and health with the opportunity to learn and explore ethical theory, analysis and problem solving.
The module is taught through a combination of seminars, lectures, and online teaching sessions and is assessed through a written assignment.
Those who work in the medical and healthcare environment are often confronted with moral questions. This module introduces students to some of the complexities arising from the ethical dilemmas that arise within this sector.
Introduction to Research Ethics in Healthcare (MDSC403)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: whole session
The aim of this module is to give students a grounding in research ethics giving them both the knowledge and skills in ethical reasoning and critical analysis to engage and explore issues in health-related research, and to enhance their understanding of the role of function of research, and research ethics, in the healthcare sector.
In addition, as students undertaking this module are likely to be, or go on to be, involved in health research this module will provide students with the knowledge, skills, and insight to ensure their own research endeavours are conducted in an ethically sound manner.
Using both directed and enquiry based learning students will develop their capacity for ethical reasoning and analysis in a range of ethical issues pertaining to health related research including (but not limited to):
• Theoretical models and underpinning of research ethics and ethical research
• Consent and confidentiality as applied to health related research
• Management of big data, impact of design, resource allocation implications of design within an organisation
The module is taught through a combination of seminars, lectures, and online teaching sessions and is assessed through a written assignment.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Semester two
Compulsory modules
MUSCULOSKELETAL BIOMECHANICS (ENGG410)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module will give students an understanding of the biomechanics of the musculoskeletal system and will cover techniques used to measure and analyse body movements as mechanical systems.
Group Engineering Design (MECH401)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: whole session
To present the fundamental principles of Engineering Product Design according to the Total design methodology.
To engage students in a multi-disciplinary group project to develop and justify an innovative engineering solution/product that is part of a grand challenge which is formulated from complex and uncertain factors.
To develop students team working, communication, project management, problem solving and critical evaluation skills.
To formulate a theoretical novel solution that is supported by valid evidence and meets an authentic need.
TISSUE ENGINEERING (ENGG412)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
The module will explore the understanding for the need for enhanced control of material induced biological interactions and how we can utilise novel material development and engineering techniques to control biological responses from the “bottom-up” (controlled biological interactions), developing the next generation of smart-implantable medical devices. As well as presenting fundamental concepts that are relevant to real clinical situations the module will also explore the need for cost effective solutions and viable routes for scale up and translation.
Optional modules
ADVANCED MANUFACTURING WITH LASERS (MECH607)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module provides an understanding of the principles of advanced manufacturing techniques using lasers and how these are being explored through current/recent research and adopted by industry.
ENERGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT (MECH433)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This modules discusses energy generation and usage, and how they complement each other. The topics are introduced in lectures that then lead onto a case study on a specific topic.
ENTERPRISE STUDIES (MNGT414)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 2
The module teaches the concepts of Entrepreneurship, Intrapreneurship, Company Infrastructure and Investment Proposals. It is taught using lectures, class questions, case studie sand a comprehensive coursework assignment. Successful students will have acquired knowledge and understanding at mastery level of the process and how itis executed in a modern industrial environment.
SMART MATERIALS (MATS515)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 2
This module introduces students to the facilitating world of ‘Smart Materials’. The term ‘Smart Materials’ is used to define a broad collection of materials that have the in-built ability to ‘actuate’ in some way in response to external stimulus. Examples of ‘Smart materials’ include piezoelectrics, electrostrictive materials, shape memory alloys, ferrofluids, various biomimetic materials plus a host of others. This module looks at a selection of smart materials and considers the underlying reasons for the actuating behavior, key performance indicators that aid materials selection, aspects of manufacturing associated with the exploitation of the materials, plus engineering applications of these facilitating and highly useful materials.
Introduction to Research Ethics in Healthcare (MDSC403)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: whole session
The aim of this module is to give students a grounding in research ethics giving them both the knowledge and skills in ethical reasoning and critical analysis to engage and explore issues in health-related research, and to enhance their understanding of the role of function of research, and research ethics, in the healthcare sector.
In addition, as students undertaking this module are likely to be, or go on to be, involved in health research this module will provide students with the knowledge, skills, and insight to ensure their own research endeavours are conducted in an ethically sound manner.
Using both directed and enquiry based learning students will develop their capacity for ethical reasoning and analysis in a range of ethical issues pertaining to health related research including (but not limited to):
• Theoretical models and underpinning of research ethics and ethical research
• Consent and confidentiality as applied to health related research
• Management of big data, impact of design, resource allocation implications of design within an organisation
The module is taught through a combination of seminars, lectures, and online teaching sessions and is assessed through a written assignment.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Final project
Compulsory modules
MSC(ENG) PROJECT (60 CREDITS) (ENGG660)
Credits: 60 /
Semester: summer
The purpose of the project is to provide students with the opportunity to plan, carry out and control a research project at the forefront of their academic discipline, field of study or area of professional practice. The student will report findings both orally and in writing. Detailed instructions are provided in the PG handbook distributed at the outset of the programme.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
How you'll learn
You’ll be taught through a combination of traditional lectures and practical classes, benefitting from research-led teaching and active learning methods.
There will be a mixture of lectures, seminars, tutorials, laboratory work, demonstrations, problem-solving exercises, group projects and independent study.
How you're assessed
You’ll be assessed through a combination of written exams, class tests and coursework.
Coursework-based assignments include essays, reports, oral presentations, mini-project work, key skills exercises and a dissertation.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
Course options
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
You’ll study in the School of Engineering, which hosts modern, world-class teaching and learning facilities. This includes the Active Learning Laboratories, which feature lab space, manufacturing robots and prototyping facilities so you can learn, build and test. You’ll also have access to high-spec workstations featuring industry-standard engineering software.
Biomedical Engineering (Healthcare) student Ceri shares her experience of studying at Liverpool
Careers and employability
Whether you’re seeking a career designing medical devices or assistive technologies, focusing on research and development, or working in engineering management or consultancy, this MSc (Eng) will prepare you for a variety of opportunities in the UK and abroad.
The programme includes a strong practical element and incorporates the latest academic and industry research, preparing you to work effectively at the forefront of engineering.
Our professional accreditation with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers means you’ll graduate with a recognised qualification on the route to Chartered Engineer status.
Career support from day one to graduation and beyond
You’ll graduate from this MSc (Eng) ready for a career in medical device design and manufacture, academic research, and engineering management or consultancy.
Previous biomedical engineering graduates have gone onto careers working for medical device companies, pharmaceutical companies, and the National Health Service and other healthcare providers.
Their career destinations include working for companies such as:
3D LifePrints
Fusion Implants
AstraZeneca
National Health Service.
You’ll also be well placed to pursue PhD study. Some of our previous graduates have secured fully-funded PhD studentships.
4 in 5 of our engineering students find their main activity after graduation meaningful.
Graduate Outcomes, 2018-19.
Fees and funding
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year
£13,300
International fees
Full-time place, per year
£29,900
Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about fees and funding.
Additional costs
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution. This degree should be in a health and life sciences subject e.g. Biomedical Sciences, Optometry, Anatomy, Biochemistry or a closely related subject.
A level Mathematics or A level Physics is desirable.
International qualifications
If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, you could be eligible for a Pre-Master’s course. This is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. It’s a specialist preparation course for postgraduate study, and when you pass the Pre-Master’s at the required level with good attendance, you’re guaranteed entry to a University of Liverpool master’s degree.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
English language qualification
Requirements
IELTS
6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0
TOEFL iBT
88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 19, writing 19, reading 19 and speaking 20. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted.
Duolingo English Test
120 overall, with no component below 105
Pearson PTE Academic
61 overall, with no component below 59
LanguageCert Academic
70 overall, with no skill below 65
PSI Skills for English
B2 Pass with Merit in all bands
INDIA Standard XII
National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English.
WAEC
C6 or above
PRE-SESSIONAL ENGLISH
Do you need to complete a Pre-Sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-Sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Contact us
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
