Master in Biomedical Engineering

An advanced postgraduate engineering programme developing skilled biomedical engineers to lead healthcare technology innovation across East Africa.

2 Years Full-time 240 Credits Kigali, Rwanda Face-to-face
About the Programme

Programme Overview

The Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering (MSc BME) is a two-year full-time postgraduate engineering programme designed to develop advanced technical and managerial skills in biomedical engineering. The programme was created to address the shortage of skilled biomedical engineers and improve healthcare technology management, medical device development, and maintenance within the health sector.

The programme consists of technical coursework, laboratory work, industry exposure, and a research dissertation. It prepares graduates for careers in research, academia, industry, healthcare institutions, and biomedical technology development.

Objectives

Programme Aims

The aims of the programme are to:

  • Apply advanced biomedical engineering principles to solve healthcare technology problems.
  • Use industry practices, emerging technologies, modern design techniques, and research methods in biomedical engineering.
  • Provide laboratory-based projects and practical exposure in biomedical engineering applications.
  • Develop a broad technical understanding of biomedical technologies and their role in business and innovation.
  • Strengthen communication, interpersonal, teamwork, and leadership skills for professional practice.
Competencies

Graduate Attributes

Graduates of the programme are expected to demonstrate competencies in:

  • Healthcare Technology Management
  • Medical Imaging
  • Rehabilitation Engineering
  • Biomedical Instrumentation
  • Research, Development, and Innovation

Graduates should also possess:

  • Strong analytical and technical problem-solving abilities
  • Ability to integrate engineering with biological and medical sciences
  • Capacity for innovation and lifelong learning
  • Effective communication and teamwork skills
Outcomes

Programme Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the programme, graduates should be able to:

  • Apply engineering principles to biomedical systems and healthcare technologies.
  • Design, develop, and manage medical devices and biomedical equipment systems.
  • Analyze and solve complex biomedical engineering problems using modern tools and techniques.
  • Conduct research and innovation in biomedical engineering.
  • Collaborate effectively with health professionals, engineers, and industry partners.
  • Apply knowledge in medical imaging, biomedical instrumentation, and rehabilitation technologies.
  • Demonstrate professional responsibility and continuous learning in biomedical engineering.
Curriculum

Course Content

Year 1 — Semester 1
Module Code Module Title Credits Year Semester
BME6161 General Human Anatomy and Physiology 10 1 1
BME6162 Biomedical Measurement Technology 10 1 1
BME6163 Advanced Embedded Systems Applications 10 1 1
BME6164 Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering 10 1 1
BME6165 Biomechanics and Biorobotics 15 1 1
BME6166 Project Management and Entrepreneurship 10 1 1
Semester Total 60
Year 1 — Semester 2
Module Code Module Title Credits Year Semester
BME6261 Advanced Research Methodology 10 1 2
BME6262 Medical Imaging Systems 15 1 2
BME6263 Medical Image Processing 10 1 2
BME6264 Healthcare Technology Management (HTM) 15 1 2
BME6265 Medical Device Development 10 1 2
Semester Total 60
Year 2 — Semester 3
Module Code Module Title Credits Year Semester
BME6361 Dissertation Part 1 (Proposal Development) 20 2 3
BME6362 Orthopedic and Mobility Devices Engineering 10 2 3
BME6363 BioMEMS Design and Applications 10 2 3
BME6364 Industrial Attachment 20 2 3
Semester Total 60
Year 2 — Semester 4
Module Code Module Title Credits Year Semester
BME6461 Dissertation Part 2 60 2 4
Semester Total 60
TOTAL PROGRAMME CREDITS 240 CREDITS

Delivery mode: All modules will be delivered using face-to-face mode at UR-CEBE, Kigali Innovation City.

Structure

Programme Structure

The programme totals 240 credits and is organized over two academic years (four semesters) of full-time study. No part-time option is currently available.

As specified in the Rwandan National Qualification Framework for Higher Education Institutions (NCHE, 2007), the academic year is divided into four semesters of 15 weeks each. Academic work and assessments are carried out within the month in which each module is completed.

Support

Student Support

Students receive comprehensive academic and administrative support throughout the programme.

Academic Support

  • Access to study materials and electronic resources
  • Use of the university e-learning platform
  • Academic and industry supervision teams
  • Regular meetings with supervisors (face-to-face or online)
  • Collaboration with hospitals and industry partners

Administrative Support

  • Guidance on registration and academic procedures
  • Support with accommodation and residence permits for international students
  • Assistance with health insurance
  • Special support arrangements for students with disabilities