Engineering Physics and Biomedical Engineering – Faculty of Engineering

Engineering Physics and Biomedical Engineering

A unique integrated program delivered jointly by the Faculties of Engineering and Health Sciences, merging Engineering Physics with biomedical insights to tackle complex engineering problems.

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

The Department of Engineering Physics emphasizes new engineering disciplines that have emerged in recent years. In these high technology areas, the link between engineering applications and basic science is particularly important.

Human health

The Biomedical Engineering option in the Department of Engineering Physics emphasizes the fundamental medical physics that relates to new technologies, as well as its application to practical problems in human health.

Micro- and nano-sensors

Engineering Physics is involved in the development and application of micro- and nano-sensors for the detection of DNA, proteins, viruses, and other biological materials.

Biophotonics and biosensors

The Department of Engineering Physics specializes in biophotonics and biosensors. Biophotonics refers to a combination of biology and photonics, which is the science and technology of the generation, manipulation, and detection of photons, which are particles of light. Biophotonics is a fast emerging field in which light is used for the study of biological molecules, cells and tissues for disease detection, diagnosis, and treatment. Light is a non-destructive probe of biological tissue, making it very useful for disease detection and diagnosis.

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 Engineering Physics 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
Student working on machine. Hands-on experience.

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 Centre for Career Growth and Experience (the Centre) administers the undergraduate co-op program.

Example employers:

  • IBM
  • Hydro One
  • Amec-NSS
  • Hatch Associates
  • Intel
  • Bell Canada
  • Texas Instruments
  • Bombardier Aerospace

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.

  • Engineering Physics Society
  • McMaster Rocketry Team
  • McMaster Solar Car Team
  • McMaster NEUDOSE Team

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

Career paths:

  • Multidisciplinary Design Engineer
  • Director of Business Development
  • Manufacturing Engineer
  • Controls Engineer
  • Systems Engineer
  • Business Analyst
  • Entrepreneur
  • Project Engineer
  • Optical Engineer

Research areas:

  • Nanotechnology, biological and chemical sensors, biomedical engineering, and solar electricity
  • Laser applications, ultrafast laser fabrication, advanced displays, optical design and instrumentation, biophotonics, advanced microscopy
  • Nuclear reactor engineering and safety, thermalhydraulics, nuclear waste management

Need moreinformation?

How to apply

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

How to apply

Department of Engineering Physics

We’re creating advanced materials, devices and systems that push the envelope of new technologies and solve grand challenges facing our world.

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