The Master of Engineering Science (Biomedical) is a 72 unit program offered by the School of Computer Science, Engineering and Mathematics, within the Faculty of Science and Engineering.

The Master of Engineering Science (Biomedical) articulates with the 36 unit Graduate Diploma in Engineering Science (specialisation in Biomedical Engineering - B1-B3).

In addition to being taken as a stand-alone degree, it can also be used as a pathway by graduates without an engineering degree to the University's accredited Master of Engineering (Biomedical) degree. Such a transfer can be done after completing at least one year of study with an average grade of credit or higher

Admission requirements

The admission requirements for the award are one of the following:

  • an engineering degree
  • a science degree
  • a medical science degree
  • a computer science
  • an Australian TAFE Diploma or Advanced Diploma (AQF Level 5) qualification in an appropriate field plus 7 years relevant work experience
  • an equivalent overseas qualification.

In addition, whatever qualification is held, students are expected to be able to demonstrate previous study or recognised prior learning in communication and planning skills, mathematics (equivalent to first year university mathematics) and science (equivalent to university undergraduate topics in chemistry and physics). Some basic knowledge of biology and human physiology is also assumed.

Credit Transfer Arrangements

Students who have completed the Flinders University Graduate Diploma in Engineering Science (specialisation in Biomedical Engineering - B1-B3) will be eligible for 36 units of credit.

Students who have completed a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) degree may receive up to 18 units of credit towards the Master's degree. This credit will be calculated on a like-for-like topic basis.

Course aims

The course provides graduates with:

  • advanced study in both the theoretical and the practical aspects of engineering that builds on a student's previous knowledge and experience
  • an ability to critically analyse and evaluate information and solve problems
  • an understanding of professional and ethical responsibilities and a commitment to them
  • well developed written and oral communication skills
  • an understanding of the need to undertake lifelong learning and the capacity to do so
  • preparation for future roles as a technical specialist.

The course provides the foundations that will underpin ongoing professional development, preparing graduates for further study or for a career in an engineering related field or in other areas where the range of skills and knowledge acquired is needed or desirable.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the award, students will be able to:

  • critically evaluate problems and use professional skills and knowledge in the systematic development of complex engineering systems
  • communicate effectively with other science and engineering professionals and the wider global community using a wide range of communication technologies
  • understand and describe the processes through which current knowledge has been developed
  • understand the engineering fundamentals needed to generate a solution appropriate to the social, political, international, economic and environmental contexts in which they are applied
  • plan and execute a research project, applying relevant methodologies and knowledge

Program of study

To qualify for the Master of Engineering Science (Biomedical), a student must complete 72 units with a grade of P or NGP or better in each topic, according to the program of study below.

Students who have completed 36 units with a grade of credit or higher will be eligible to transfer to the Master of Engineering (Biomedical).

The topics selected depend on the entry qualifications. Students must consult with the Director of Studies regarding their Program of Study.

Option - Year 1 topics**

36 units selected from:

COMP8801 Computer Programming 2 GE (4.5 units)
ENGR8703
Electronics GE (4.5 units)
ENGR8722 Analysis of Engineering Systems GE (4.5 units)
ENGR8731 Microprocessors GE (4.5 units)
ENGR8752 Engineering Physics and Materials GE (4.5 units)
ENGR8761 Engineering Mathematics GE (4.5 units)
ENGR8772 Sensors and Actuators GE (4.5 units)
ENGR8800 Engineering Programming GE (4.5 units)
ENGR8812 Engineering Mechanics GE (4.5 units)
MMED8931 Human Physiology GE (4.5 units)

Core - Year 2 topics***

13.5 units comprising

 ENGR9704  Project Management and Innovation  (4.5 units)
 ENGR9710A  Masters Project (4.5/9 units)
 ENGR9710B  Masters Project (4.5/9 units)

Option - Year 2 topics

Plus one topic from Table A*

Plus 18 units selected from:

 ENGR8732  Biomechanics GE  (4.5 units)
 ENGR8742  Biomedical Instrumentation GE  (4.5 units)
 ENGR8801 Fluid Mechanics GE (4.5 units)
 ENGR9721 Control Systems GE (4.5 units)
 ENGR9741  Physiological Measurement GE  (4.5 units)
 ENGR9811 Solid Mechanics GE (4.5 units)

*The option topic from Table A must be selected from those labelled as biomedical engineering (Group B)

**Students who have completed an engineering degree may undertake an alternative Program of Study. Students who complete this alternative Program of Study with an average grade of credit or higher will be able to transfer to the Master of Engineering (Biomedical) and complete in 2 years. Students should discuss their program with the Director of Studies.

***For students who have achieved an average grade of credit or higher at the end of Year 1, an alternative second year program that includes an 18 unit Masters thesis and advanced coursework is available that will facilitate entry to a postgraduate research degree. Students are advised to discuss an alternative Program of Study with their Director of Studies. Note that students who wish to use their masters qualification to satisfy entry into a Flinders University research higher degree program are required to complete an 18 unit thesis.