Undergraduate Interdisciplinary Studies Program
Overview of Program
The School of Biomedical Engineering offers undergraduate students the opportunity to earn credits in an interdisciplinary studies program (ISP) to complement their primary major. This 21 credit program is similar to a minor and is open to all majors. It is designed to introduce you to biomedical engineering and strengthen your skills in engineering and science. The program provides a solid foundation in biomedical engineering and life sciences, as well as a familiarity with the clinical environment.
This ISP is a great option for students to make their medical school application stand out! In fact, many students earn credits in this program to be more competitive graduate, medical, or law school applicants. Graduates of the program are also more competitive candidates for positions in the biomedical engineering industry, one of the fastest growing industries in the U.S.
When pursuing the Biomedical Engineering ISP, you should plan on adding an additional semester to your anticipated graduation date. However, you may be able to count some of the Biomedical Engineering ISP requirements toward your specific degree requirements. Check with Sara Neys, Biomedical Engineering Advisor, for prerequisite requirements on required courses and electives.
Interdisciplinary Studies Program Coursework
By working closely with your advisor, you can take classes that will count towards the ISP and your major requirements! All Biomedical Engineering ISP students will be required to take the following three courses:
- Biomedical Engineering (3 credits)
- Principles of Human Physiology (4 credits)
- Medical Terminology (1 credit)
Biomedical engineers typically require training in a both a traditional engineering field as well as life sciences. Therefore, students majoring in engineering will focus their remaining ISP elective courses on life sciences. Conversely, those with a science background will concentrate on strengthening their engineering knowledge.
Considering Pre-Med?
While earning creadits in the ISP, you will take many of the required courses for medical school. The ISP and solid course background will make your application stand out from the rest! To make sure you are taking the best courses for pre-med while earning credits towards the ISP, contact Sara Neys, Biomedical Engineering Advisor.