Biomedical Engineering, ME
Chairperson: Frank A. Pintar, Ph.D.
Biomedical Engineering Graduate Programs website
Degree Offered
Master of Engineering
Mission Statement
The Marquette University (MU) and Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) Department of Biomedical Engineering is dedicated to delivering an extraordinary educational experience designed to empower the next generation of biomedical engineers, scientists and physicians. If you have a passion for learning and a desire to translate ideas into action — particularly those involving medical devices and health care technologies — let our faculty, staff and industry partners guide you on your journey. We develop leaders and problem solvers skilled at applying engineering, science and design principles to improve health in the service of humanity by:
- Discovering and disseminating new knowledge;
- Promoting critical thinking and lifelong learning;
- Guiding students to meaningful and ethical professional and personal lives;
- Fostering interdisciplinary and collaborative research and education through academic and industrial alliances;
- Continuing innovative leadership in education, research and industrial relationships; and
- Inspiring faculty and students to serve others.
General Information
All admitted students are required to obtain and read the department’s Graduate Student Handbooks for each of the degree programs, which contains complete details about the biomedical engineering programs. The handbook for each degree is available through the Department of Biomedical Engineering website.
Biomedical Engineering Master of Engineering (M.E.)
Specializations: Bioinstrumentation, Biomechanics, Biomedical Imaging, Cellular and Molecular Engineering, Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Rehabilitation Bioengineering
Upon enrolling in the Joint Marquette University/Medical College of Wisconsin Department's master of engineering (M.E.) program in biomedical engineering, a student selects one of five specializations and follows the curriculum designed for that specialization. The program includes course work in engineering, life sciences, mathematics, and medicine.
Program Requirements
Students select one of two options.
Option 1 :
A total of 30 credit hours of graduate-level courses.
- A minimum of 15 credit hours of engineering courses, including at least 12 credits of BIEN (MU Biomedical Engineering) courses.
- One MU or MCW biomedical science course (3 credits); e.g., cellular and systems physiology, microbiology, neurophysiology.
- One readings course. A faculty member determines the title and topic, which should link various areas of biomedical engineering. This requirement can be managed via the existing BIEN 6995 Independent Study in Biomedical Engineering/Independent Readings and Research course.
- BIEN 6953 Seminar in Biomedical Engineering, the 0-credit department seminar series, must be taken each term for the duration of their study.
Each student selects one of the specializations offered and follows the recommended curriculum for that specialization. Students work with their advisers to choose their didactic course work and develop their tailored program of study.
BIOINSTRUMENTATION
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Recommended course work: | ||
| BIEN 5700 | Systems Physiology (or equivalent) | 3 |
| BIEN 5320 | Biomedical Instrumentation Design | 3 |
| Graduate electives as approved by adviser (BIEN, MATH, etc., as appropriate) | 6 | |
| BIEN 5220 | Embedded Biomedical Instrumentation | 3 |
| BIEN 5520 | Introduction to Optics for Biomedical Engineers | 3 |
| BIEN 6310 | Microprocessor Based Biomedical Instrumentation | 3 |
| BIEN Bioinstrumentation elective as approved by adviser | 3 | |
| BIEN 6320 | Radio Frequency Applications in Biomedical Engineering | 3 |
| BIEN 6953 | Seminar in Biomedical Engineering (Taken every term) | 0 |
| BIEN 6995 | Independent Study in Biomedical Engineering (Required Readings course) | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 30 | |
BIOMECHANICS
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Recommended course work: | ||
| BIEN 5700 | Systems Physiology (or equivalent) | 3 |
| BIEN 5320 | Biomedical Instrumentation Design | 3 |
| BIEN 5410 | Applied Finite Element Analysis | 3 |
| Graduate electives as approved by adviser (BIEN, MATH, etc., as appropriate) | 6 | |
| BIEN 5710 | Analysis of Physiological Models | 3 |
| BIEN 6440 | Biomedical Engineering Analysis of Trauma | 3 |
| BIEN 6450 | Musculoskeletal Biomechanics 1 | 3 |
| BIEN Biomechanics elective as approved by adviser | 3 | |
| BIEN 6953 | Seminar in Biomedical Engineering (Taken every term) | 0 |
| BIEN 6995 | Independent Study in Biomedical Engineering (Required Readings course) | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 30 | |
BIOMEDICAL IMAGING
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Recommended course work: | ||
| BIEN 5700 | Systems Physiology (or equivalent) | 3 |
| BIEN 5320 | Biomedical Instrumentation Design | 3 |
| Graduate electives as approved by adviser (BIEN, MATH, etc., as appropriate) | 6 | |
| BIEN 5500 | Medical Imaging Physics | 3 |
| BIEN 5510 | Image Processing for the Biomedical Sciences | 3 |
| BIEN 6210 | Advanced Biomedical Signal Processing | 3 |
| BIEN Bioimaging elective as approved by adviser | 3 | |
| BIEN 6220 | Multidimensional Biomedical Time Series Analysis | 3 |
| BIEN 6953 | Seminar in Biomedical Engineering (Taken every term) | 0 |
| BIEN 6995 | Independent Study in Biomedical Engineering (Required Readings course) | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 30 | |
CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR ENGINEERING
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Recommended course work: | ||
| BIEN 5400 | Transport Phenomena | 3 |
| BIEN 5710 | Analysis of Physiological Models | 3 |
| BIEN 5720 | Cardiopulmonary Mechanics | 3 |
| BIEN 6400 | Biofluid Mechanics | 3 |
| BIEN 6410 | Biological Mass Transfer | 3 |
| Electives as approved by adviser | 12 | |
| BIEN 6953 | Seminar in Biomedical Engineering (Taken every term) | 0 |
| BIEN 6995 | Independent Study in Biomedical Engineering (Required Readings course) | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 30 | |
Computational Biology and Bioinformatics
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Recommended course work: | ||
| BIEN 5700 | Systems Physiology (or equivalent) | 3 |
| BIEN 5320 | Biomedical Instrumentation Design | 3 |
| Graduate electives as approved by adviser (BIEN, MATH, etc., as appropriate) | 6 | |
| BIEN 5220 | Embedded Biomedical Instrumentation | 3 |
| BIEN 5710 | Analysis of Physiological Models | 3 |
| BIEN 6300 | Biomedical Instrumentation | 3 |
| BIEN Biocomputer elective as approved by adviser | 3 | |
| BIEN 6200 | Biomedical Signal Processing | 3 |
| BIEN 6953 | Seminar in Biomedical Engineering (Taken every term) | 0 |
| BIEN 6995 | Independent Study in Biomedical Engineering (Required Readings course) | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 30 | |
Rehabilitation Bioengineering
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Recommended course work: | ||
| BIEN 5700 | Systems Physiology (or equivalent) | 3 |
| BIEN 5320 | Biomedical Instrumentation Design | 3 |
| Graduate electives as approved by adviser (BIEN, MATH, etc., as appropriate) | 6 | |
| BIEN 5710 | Analysis of Physiological Models | 3 |
| BIEN 6600 | Neuromotor Control | 3 |
| BIEN 6610 | Rehabilitative Biosystems | 3 |
| BIEN Biorehabilitation elective as approved by adviser | 3 | |
| BIEN 6620 | Modeling Rehabilitative Biosystems | 3 |
| BIEN 6953 | Seminar in Biomedical Engineering (Taken every term) | 0 |
| BIEN 6995 | Independent Study in Biomedical Engineering (Required Readings course) | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 30 | |
OPTION 2:
A total of 30 credit hours of graduate-level courses where students earn the master of engineering and 2 engineering certificates. The plan of study includes 12 credits for each engineering certificate plus 6 credits of BIEN (MU Biomedical Engineering) graduate courses. Admission to all three programs is concurrent. The same courses are used to satisfy the requirements of the master’s program and each certificate, as outlined in the University Bulletin for each degree. Students are expected to be admitted into all programs they intend to complete prior to beginning the program of study.
- At least one (1) of the 2 certificates must be chosen from the certificates offered by the joint MU-MCW Biomedical Engineering Department and the MU OPUS College of Engineering, including the 12-credit BIEN Clinical Immersion in Medical Device Design certificate.
- One (1) of the 2 certificates can be chosen from another engineering department in the MU Opus College of Engineering (approved 12-credit certificates).
- A minimum of 15 credit hours must be engineering courses, including a minimum of 12 credits of BIEN courses.
- One MU or MCW biomedical science course (3 credits); e.g., cellular and systems physiology, microbiology, neurophysiology.
- One readings course. A faculty member determines the title and topic, which should link various areas of biomedical engineering. This requirement can be managed via the existing BIEN 6995 Independent Study in Biomedical Engineering/Independent Readings and Research course.
- BIEN 6953 Seminar in Biomedical Engineering, the 0-credit department seminar series, must be taken each term for the duration of their study.
Each student selects one of the specializations offered and follows the recommended curriculum for that specialization. Students work with their advisers to choose their didactic course work and develop their tailored program of study.
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BIEN 5220 Embedded Biomedical Instrumentation (3 credits)
Fundamentals of digital circuit design and analysis and the application to embedded biomedical instrumentation. Topics include microprocessor principles and programming and system design constraints for medical electronics. Laboratory provides applications of concepts introduced in class.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Spring Term, 2023 Spring Term, 2022 Spring Term, 2021 Spring Term
BIEN 5230 Intelligent Biosystems (3 credits)
Use of emerging tools in systems biology and soft computing to explore how biosystems with highly distributed "intelligence" are designed to adapt to self- and environmentally-induced perturbations. Students obtain a basic understanding of key soft computing tools and use fuzzy expert system models. Applications to smart healthcare monitoring and future product design will be explored.
Prerequisite: BIEN 4700/5700.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2017 Spring Term, 2015 Fall Term, 2014 Spring Term, 2009 Fall Term
BIEN 5320 Biomedical Instrumentation Design (3 credits)
Fundamental knowledge and skills needed to solve instrumentation problems relating to biomedical and physiological measurements in the laboratory and clinic. Key elements include biosignals, signal conditioning, sensors and transducers, data acquisition, instrument design and safety requirements. Includes hands-on experiences in basic instrumentation lab skills, needs identification, design, implementation, testing and troubleshooting, and report writing.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Fall Term, 2024 Spring Term, 2023 Fall Term, 2023 Spring Term
BIEN 5400 Transport Phenomena (3 credits)
Applications of mass, momentum, and mechanical energy balances to biomedical fluid systems. Study of physiological phenomena with an emphasis on cardiovascular systems and blood rheology.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Fall Term, 2024 Spring Term, 2023 Fall Term, 2023 Spring Term
BIEN 5410 Applied Finite Element Analysis (3 credits)
Introduces the finite element solution method for linear, static problems. Includes calculation of element stiffness matrices, assembly of global stiffness matrices, exposure to various finite element solution methods, and numerical integration. Emphasizes structural mechanics, and also discusses heat transfer and fluid mechanics applications in finite element analysis. Computer assignments include development of finite element code (FORTRAN or C) and also use of commercial finite element software (ANSYS and/or MARC).
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Fall Term, 2021 Fall Term, 2017 Spring Term, 2016 Spring Term
BIEN 5420 Biomaterials Science and Engineering (3 credits)
Designed to introduce the uses of materials in the human body for the purposes of healing, correcting deformities and restoring lost function. The science aspect of the course encompasses topics including: characterization of material properties, biocompatibility and past and current uses of materials for novel devices that are both biocompatible and functional for the life of the implanted device. Projects allow students to focus and gain knowledge in an area of biomaterials engineering in which they are interested.
Prerequisite: MEEN 2460 or cons. of instr.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Spring Term, 2022 Spring Term, 2020 Spring Term, 2019 Spring Term
BIEN 5430 Introduction to Tissue Engineering (3 credits)
Introduces the scientific field of tissue engineering, a discipline of biomedical engineering that uses a combination of living cells, biomaterials, and biomechanical and biochemical stimuli to restore or replace damaged or diseased biological tissues. Covers advanced topics in foundational sciences as applicable to the engineering of living tissues. Topics include stem cell biology, biomaterials, immunology, bioreactors and molecular biology. Discusses pathophysiology and engineering strategies for specific tissues, along with examples of current research. Covers the following tissue applications: skin, blood vessels, nervous tissue, heart tissue, heart valves, tendons, ligaments, bone and whole organs.
Level of Study: Graduate
BIEN 5500 Medical Imaging Physics (3 credits)
Examines how light, X-rays, radiopharmaceuticals, ultrasound, magnetic fields, and other energy probes are generated and how they interact with tissues and detectors to produce useful image contrast. Addresses practical issues such as beam generation, dose limitations, patient motion, spatial resolution and dynamic range limitations, and cost-effectiveness. Emphasizes diagnostic radiological imaging physics, including the planar X-ray, digital subtraction angiography mammography, computed tomography, nuclear medicine, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging modalities.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Fall Term, 2016 Spring Term, 2013 Fall Term, 2011 Fall Term
BIEN 5510 Image Processing for the Biomedical Sciences (3 credits)
Introduces biomedical image processing. Topics explored include: the human visual system, spatial sampling and digitization, image transforms, spatial filtering, Fourier analysis, image enhancement and restoration, nonlinear and adaptive filters, color image processing, geometrical operations and morphological filtering, image coding and compression image segmentation, feature extraction and object classification. Applications in diagnostic medicine, biology and biomedical research are emphasized and presented as illustrative examples.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Spring Term, 2023 Spring Term, 2022 Spring Term, 2019 Fall Term
BIEN 5520 Introduction to Optics for Biomedical Engineers (3 credits)
Introduces the fundamentals of optics, the science and technology of how light is generated, propagated, interacts with matter and detected. Concentrates on geometrical (or ray) optics, which focuses on light reflection, refraction, lenses, mirrors, prisms, fiber optics, GRIN lens and simple imaging systems, as well as wave optics, which focuses on wave equations, superposition, diffraction, interference, polarization, dispersion and electro-optic effects. Also studies more advanced topics, such as fluorescence imaging, optical microscopy, diffuse optical tomography, optical coherence tomography and optical spectroscopy.
Prerequisite: Physics, analog circuits, or cons. of instr.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Fall Term
BIEN 5600 Neural Engineering (3 credits)
Basic principles of neural engineering, properties of excitable tissues, quantitative models used to examine the mechanisms of natural and artificial stimulation. Basic concepts for the design of neuroprosthetic devices for sensory, motor and therapeutic applications. Design issues including electrode type, biomaterials, tissue response to stimulating electrodes and stimulus parameters for electrical stimulation and artificial control. Examples of how engineering interfaces with neural tissue show increasing promise in the rehabilitation of individuals of neural impairment.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Fall Term, 2023 Spring Term, 2021 Spring Term, 2018 Fall Term
BIEN 5610 Introduction to Rehabilitation Robotics (3 credits)
Presents the fundamentals of robotics as it is applied to rehabilitation engineering. Specific topics include: the fundamentals of analysis and design of robot manipulators with examples and mini-projects taken from rehabilitation applications pertaining to robotic therapy devices and personal assistants. Additional topics include: overview of rehabilitation robotics field, human-centered design of rehabilitation robots issues and challenges, robot configurations, rigid motions and homogeneous transformations, Denavit-Hartenberg representation, robot kinematics, and inverse kinematics, Euler-Lagrange equations, trajectory generation, sensors, actuators, independent joint control, force control and safety.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Fall Term, 2013 Spring Term, 2012 Spring Term, 2011 Spring Term
BIEN 5620 Rehabilitation Engineering: Telerehabilitation Research Tools (3 credits)
Introduces rehabilitation science as the study of tissue and functional change, including: overview of key human sensory modalities and neuromotor systems in the context of functional capabilities and human performance metrics; review of spontaneous recovery mechanisms in response to various types of tissue trauma; review of roles of genetics and gene transcription networks in pathology and functional recovery prognosis; and the concept of rehabilitative assessment and therapeutic interventions as an optimization problem. Also focuses on the use of assistive technology to enhance access to independent living and to optimize the delivery of rehabilitative healthcare services. Includes rehabilitation biomechanics of physical interfaces, use of access and usability engineering in product design and innovative assessment and intervention strategies for neurorehabilitation.
Level of Study: Graduate
BIEN 5630 Rehabilitation Engineering: Prosthetics, Orthotics, Seating and Positioning (3 credits)
Presents an overview of biomedical engineering as it applies to Rehabilitation Engineering, specifically, the design and prescription of prosthetic limbs, orthotic devices, and seating and positioning systems. Topics include medical terminology, musculoskeletal anatomy, muscle mechanics, soft tissue mechanics, gait/locomotion, amputation surgery, lower extremity prosthetics, lower extremity orthotics, hand function, electromyography, upper extremity prosthetics, upper extremity orthotics, seating and positioning and assistive devices.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2016 Fall Term, 2015 Fall Term, 2014 Fall Term, 2013 Fall Term
BIEN 5640 Bioengineering of Living Actuators (3 credits)
Overview of muscle tissue as a living actuator from the perspective of engineering design, systems biology, muscle modeling and adaptive control.
Prerequisite: BIEN 4700/5700.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2010 Fall Term
BIEN 5700 Systems Physiology (3 credits)
Analyses of the underlying physiologic and bioengineering aspects of the major cell and organ systems of the human from an engineer's point of view. Classic physiologic approaches used to introduce topics including cell functions, nervous system, nerve, muscle, heart, circulation, respiratory system, kidney, reproduction and biomechanics. Design problems including models of cell-organ-system function and problems in biomechanics illuminate topics covered. Computer techniques and relevant instrumentation are incorporated. Experts on related topics are invited to speak as they are available.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Fall Term, 2024 Spring Term, 2023 Fall Term, 2023 Spring Term
BIEN 5710 Analysis of Physiological Models (3 credits)
Development of continuous (compartmental) and distributed-in-space-and-time mathematical models of physiological systems and molecular events. Analytical and numerical methods for solving differential equations of the initial and boundary value types. Simulation of model response, and estimation of model parameters using linear and nonlinear regression analysis.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Fall Term, 2020 Fall Term, 2016 Fall Term, 2015 Spring Term
BIEN 5720 Cardiopulmonary Mechanics (3 credits)
Examination of the physiological behavior of the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems from an engineering perspective. Emphasis is on understanding the mechanical basis of physiologic phenomena via experimental models.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Spring Term, 2022 Spring Term, 2020 Fall Term, 2019 Spring Term
BIEN 5931 Topics in Biomedical Engineering (1-3 credits)
Course content announced prior to each term. Students may enroll in the course more than once as subject matter changes. Possible topics include biomechanics, experimental methods, neuroanatomy, telemetry, etc.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Fall Term, 2024 Spring Term, 2023 Fall Term, 2023 Spring Term
BIEN 6120 Introduction to the Finite Element Method (3 credits)
Introduces finite element analysis as applied to linear, static problems. Application to problems in plane strain, plane stress, and axisymmetry. Development of shape functions and element stiffness matrices. Although primarily structural analysis, also considers problems in heat transfer and fluid mechanics. Use of user-written and packaged software.
Prerequisite: GEEN 2130; and matrix/linear algebra or equiv.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2010 Fall Term, 2007 Spring Term, 2002 Fall Term, 2001 Fall Term
BIEN 6121 Applied Finite Element Analysis and Modeling (3 credits)
Advanced finite element analysis as applied to nonlinear (both material and geometric nonlinearities), dynamic problems. Use of penalty methods and perturbed Lagrangian methods. Use of user-written and packaged software. Critical reviews of finite element analysis in biomechanical research.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 1998 Spring Term, 1997 Spring Term, 1996 Spring Term, 1995 Spring Term
BIEN 6200 Biomedical Signal Processing (3 credits)
Introduces students to statistical processing of biomedical data. Topics include: data acquisition, probability and estimation, signal averaging, power spectrum analysis, windowing, digital filters and data compression. Students complete several computer projects which apply these processing methods to physiologic signals.
Prerequisite: MATH 2451; and proficiency in C or FORTRAN.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Spring Term, 2022 Fall Term, 2021 Fall Term, 2019 Spring Term
BIEN 6210 Advanced Biomedical Signal Processing (3 credits)
Covers modern methods of signal processing encountered in the bio-medical field including parametric modeling, modern spectral estimation, multivariate analysis, adaptive signal processing, decimation/interpolation, and two-dimensional signal analysis. Students complete several computer projects which apply these modern techniques to physiologic data.
Prerequisite: BIEN 6200 or equiv.; knowledge of C or FORTRAN.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2013 Fall Term, 2010 Spring Term, 2009 Spring Term, 2007 Fall Term
BIEN 6220 Multidimensional Biomedical Time Series Analysis (3 credits)
Theory and implementation of methods used to collect, model and analyze multidimensional time series encountered in biomedical applications such as functional imaging, electrophysiologic mapping and the study of physiologic control systems.
Prerequisite: BIEN 6200; proficiency in C or FORTRAN.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2006 Spring Term, 2001 Fall Term, 2001 Spring Term, 1999 Spring Term
BIEN 6300 Biomedical Instrumentation (3 credits)
Explores relationships between instruments for physiologic measurement and monitoring with living systems. Physiologic signals, noise, and available sensors and transducers and their characteristics are discussed from time and frequency domain points of view. Systems topics include various new and conventional medical instrumentation. Other topics include clinical and new clinical laboratory instrumentation, instrumentation for research, artificial organs and prostheses. Includes the use of scientific literature, literature searches, design projects, computer projects.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2001 Spring Term, 1999 Fall Term, 1998 Spring Term, 1996 Fall Term
BIEN 6301 Clinical Need Finding (3 credits)
Provides students with the tools and mindset to be able to identify needs within the clinical environment. A key element presented is the ability to employ observational research techniques to identify capability gaps, employed workarounds, and undiscovered opportunities – without exclusively relying on what the end user communicates. Topics include clinical terminology and common devices, stakeholder perspectives, U.S. FDA regulatory requirements, international standards, systems and inclusive design methodologies, observation and ethnographic skills, and bioethical considerations.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Fall Term, 2024 Spring Term, 2023 Fall Term, 2023 Spring Term
BIEN 6302 Clinical Observation (3 credits)
Provides students with an immersive, experiential learning opportunity within the clinical environment. Students complete a series of immersion experiences with different clinics to facilitate clinician-designer interactions that cannot otherwise be easily replicated. These interactions will help designers to identify new opportunities, improve medical devices, or create new approaches to solve problems often encountered by clinicians and medical professionals. Students also complete simulation lab experience as part of their immersion experience.
Prerequisite: BIEN 6301.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Fall Term, 2024 Spring Term, 2023 Fall Term
BIEN 6310 Microprocessor Based Biomedical Instrumentation (3 credits)
Discusses the application of microprocessors, microcontrollers, and digital signal processors to biomedical instrumentation. Complements BIEN 6300, which covers transducers, sensors, analog signal conditioning, and analog to digital conversion. Emphasizes evaluating the memory, power, resolution, cost, and computational requirements of a particular application, and then selecting a type (microprocessor, microcontroller, or digital signal processor) and particular model of processor to satisfy the system requirements. Students design at least two complete processor based systems.
Prerequisite: Knowledge of digital electronics and microprocessors.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2002 Spring Term, 2001 Fall Term, 2000 Spring Term, 1998 Fall Term
BIEN 6320 Radio Frequency Applications in Biomedical Engineering (3 credits)
Radio frequency design and applications for biomedical engineering and medicine. Circuit elements, equivalent circuits, impedance transformations, Smith Chart, two ports, scattering parameters, amplifiers, resonant circuits, mixers, receivers. Applications include telemetry, transcutaneous power transfer, hyperthermia, rf ablation, magnetic resonance imaging; HP-EESOF LIBRA and Ascent CAD are introduced as analysis and design tools. Guest speakers. Written and oral design reports.
Prerequisite: Undergraduate background in circuit theory and analog electronics.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2010 Spring Term, 2007 Fall Term, 2005 Spring Term, 2003 Spring Term
BIEN 6400 Biofluid Mechanics (3 credits)
Development of the theory of fluid mechanics as applied to living systems. Considers both steady and unsteady flows of Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids. Topics include: viscometry, blood flow, gas and aerosolflows, pulsatile flow and wave propagation and applications to the understanding of flows in organs and to the measurement of blood pressure and flow.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2008 Fall Term, 2003 Fall Term, 2000 Fall Term, 1998 Fall Term
BIEN 6410 Biological Mass Transfer (3 credits)
Development of the theory of mass transfer. Fick's law and free diffusion. Osmosis, facilitated diffusion, active transport, transport across cell membranes and applications to cell biology and organ physiology.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2004 Fall Term, 2001 Fall Term, 2001 Spring Term, 1997 Fall Term
BIEN 6420 Biomechanical and Biomaterial Systems Analysis (3 credits)
Using fundamentals of biomaterials engineering and biocompatibility, analyzes the functions that organs serve and to analyze the efficacy and safety of artificial organs systems. Some organs/tissues discussed include the kidneys, liver, skeleton, skin, heart, muscles, eyes, and ears. Critically examines the suitability of state-of-the-art artificial organ systems, including artificial hearts, orthopaedic prostheses, kidney dialyzers, and cochlear devices to fulfill the functions of the replaced organs/tissues.
Prerequisite: BIEN 5420.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 1992 Fall Term, 1990 Fall Term, 1988 Fall Term
BIEN 6430 Advanced Tissue Engineering (3 credits)
Explores advanced topics in the scientific field of tissue engineering, a discipline of biomedical engineering that uses a combination of living cells, biomaterials, and biomechanical and biochemical stimuli to restore or replace damaged or diseased biological tissues. Covers advanced topics in foundational sciences as applicable to the engineering of living tissues. Students select applications of tissue engineering, review recent academic research as reported in the scientific literature, and present their findings to the class. Example tissue applications to be covered include: skin, blood vessels, nervous tissue, heart tissue, heart valves, tendons, ligaments, bone, muscle, pancreas, bladder and whole organs.
Prerequisite: BIEN 5430 recommended.
Level of Study: Graduate
BIEN 6440 Biomedical Engineering Analysis of Trauma (3 credits)
An engineering analysis of the physiological changes following impact to the head, spinal cord, and limbs, and electrical events and effects on tissues are treated.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Spring Term, 2019 Spring Term, 2015 Fall Term, 2013 Fall Term
BIEN 6450 Musculoskeletal Biomechanics 1 (3 credits)
Emphasizes the interrelationship of force and motion as related to anatomic structure and function. Examines the forces and motions acting in the skeletal system and the various techniques used to describe them. Highlights current concepts as revealed in the recent scientific and engineering literature. Topics include: bone mechanics, joint mechanics, gait kinematics, instrumentation and measurement of biomechanical phenomena, and computer modeling of the musculoskeletal system.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Fall Term, 2012 Fall Term, 2006 Fall Term, 2002 Fall Term
BIEN 6451 Musculoskeletal Biomechanics 2 (3 credits)
Advanced concepts of kinematics and mechanics as they apply to the fields of biomechanics and rehabilitation. Covers aspects of gait, bone and joint surgery, and soft tissue surgery. Detailed study of joint mechanics, implant applications and mobility device function is performed. Includes advanced analysis and modeling as well as laboratory-based final project.
Prerequisite: BIEN 6450.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2016 Fall Term, 2014 Fall Term, 2010 Fall Term, 2007 Fall Term
BIEN 6470 Biomechanics of the Spine (3 credits)
Analyzes anatomical and functional relationships among the hard and soft tissue structures of the spine as a function of vertebral column development, aging, disease and trauma. Emphasis given to the mechanisms of external and internal load transfer. Imaging (e.g. CT), experimental and finite element methods are used to study the effects of physiologic/traumatic loading, surgery and spinal disorders. Discusses current advancements in biomechanical/clinical literature.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2000 Spring Term
BIEN 6500 Mathematics of Medical Imaging (3 credits)
Begins with an overview of the application of linear systems theory to radiographic imaging (pinhole imaging, transmission and emission tomography), and covers the mathematics of computed tomography including the analytic theory of reconstructing from projections and extensions to emission computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Topics may also include three-dimensional imaging, noise analysis and image quality, and optimization. Contains advanced mathematical content.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2018 Spring Term, 2015 Spring Term, 2012 Spring Term, 2008 Spring Term
BIEN 6600 Neuromotor Control (3 credits)
Overview of current issues in neuromotor control and movement biomechanics. Special emphasis on the study of normal and impaired human movement. Topics include: muscle mechanics, biomechanics of movement, neural circuitry, strategies for the neural control of movement (including a discussion of adaptation and motor learning) and potential applications of biomedical engineering techniques to the study and improvement of impaired motor function.
Prerequisite: BIEN 3300 which may be taken concurrently or equiv.; or cons. of instr.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Spring Term, 2022 Fall Term, 2016 Fall Term, 2015 Spring Term
BIEN 6610 Rehabilitative Biosystems (3 credits)
Examines the plastic changes in biological systems that occur in response to targeted stimuli. These processes involve responses by cells to chemical, mechanical, or electrical stimuli (which may be related), which may be influenced or directed using engineering techniques. Examines the homeostasis of physiologic systems and their response to pathologic and rehabilitative stimuli. Examines engineering applications involving the diagnosis and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal, neurologic and cardiopulmonary biosystems in the context of the underlying cellular mechanisms.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Spring Term, 2010 Spring Term, 2008 Fall Term, 2005 Fall Term
BIEN 6620 Modeling Rehabilitative Biosystems (3 credits)
Introduction to large-scale mathematical models of various physiological systems of interest in rehabilitation (e.g., cardiovascular, pulmonary, musculoskeletal, etc.). Discusses mathematical modeling, a widely used tool for testing hypotheses regarding the underlying mechanisms of complex systems such as physiological systems in health, disease and recovery. For each, simulation is used to further our understanding of the adaptive processes of these systems in response to physiological/pathophysiological stresses and rehabilitative interventions.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2016 Fall Term, 2014 Fall Term, 2011 Spring Term, 2007 Spring Term
BIEN 6700 Analysis of Physiological Systems (3 credits)
Introduction to the use of mathematical models in quantifying physiological systems. Analyzes model formulation. Applications of analytical and numerical solution techniques and parameter estimation methods.
Prerequisite: BIEN 5710.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 1996 Spring Term, 1994 Spring Term, 1988 Spring Term
BIEN 6710 Cellular and Molecular Bioengineering (3 credits)
Main topics include: cellular biomechanics with an emphasis on the cardiovascular system, molecular bioengineering, biotransport phenomena, and tissue engineering with focus on artificial internal organs. Cellular biomechanics topics covered are biomechanics of the endothelium, endothelial-immune cell interactions, and blood cell structural biomechanics. Topics in molecular bioengineering include chemotaxis and chemokinesis, and modeling of receptor-mediated endocytosis. Biotransport and tissue engineering topics include bioreactor design and the analysis and development of artificial internal organs like the liver and pancreas.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2019 Fall Term, 2002 Fall Term, 1999 Spring Term
BIEN 6931 Topics in Biomedical Engineering (3 credits)
Subject matter variable as determined by needs of biomedical graduate students. Students may enroll more than once as the subject matter changes. Possible topics: biostatistics, experimental methods, neuro-anatomy, etc.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Fall Term, 2023 Fall Term, 2023 Spring Term, 2022 Spring Term
BIEN 6932 Advanced Topics in Biomedical Engineering (3 credits)
Advanced topics in design and analysis of biomedical instruments, devices and interfaces. Project approach drawing from current literature and current projects of laboratories of affiliated institutions. Topics include bioelectronics, biomechanics, biomaterials, and rehabilitation engineering.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2014 Spring Term, 2013 Spring Term, 2009 Fall Term
BIEN 6947 Medical College of Wisconsin/Joint Degree (1-8 credits)
Graduate-level course in selected areas of the life sciences offered at the Medical College of Wisconsin. May be taken by doctorate BIEN students at Marquette University.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Fall Term, 2024 Summer Term, 2019 Fall Term, 2017 Fall Term
BIEN 6953 Seminar in Biomedical Engineering (0 credits)
Scholarly presentations on current topics in biomedical engineering and related areas by visiting professors, resident faculty and graduate students. Attendance is required of all full-time graduate students. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Mandatory for all full-time BIEN graduate students.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Fall Term, 2024 Spring Term, 2023 Fall Term, 2023 Spring Term
BIEN 6954 Seminar in Biomedical Computing (0 credits)
Scholarly presentations on current topics in biomedical engineering and related areas by visiting professors, resident faculty and graduate students. Attendance is required of all full-time graduate students. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Mandatory for all full-time BIEN graduate students.
Level of Study: Graduate
BIEN 6960 Seminar: Journal Club (0-3 credits)
0 credit will be SNC/UNC grade assessment; 1-3 credits will be graded.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2022 Spring Term, 2007 Fall Term, 2005 Fall Term, 1996 Spring Term
BIEN 6995 Independent Study in Biomedical Engineering (1-3 credits)
Faculty-supervised, independent study/research of a specific area or topic in Biomedical Engineering.
Prerequisite: Cons. of instr. and cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Spring Term, 2023 Fall Term, 2023 Spring Term, 2022 Spring Term
BIEN 6999 Master's Thesis (1-6 credits)
S/U grade assessment.
Prerequisite: Cons. of instr.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Fall Term, 2024 Summer Term, 2024 Spring Term, 2023 Fall Term
BIEN 8110 Research Methodologies 1 (3 credits)
Development of research aims and hypotheses, identification of relevant scientific literature, experimental approaches, statistical design, and pilot work to obtain preliminary results. Emphasizes written communication of research theme. The course project consists of the development of a research proposal including research aims, background, pilot experiments, and experimental design and methodology.
Prerequisite: Accepted Ph.D. student in biomedical engineering.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Spring Term, 2020 Fall Term, 2020 Spring Term, 2019 Fall Term
BIEN 8120 Research Methodologies 2 (3 credits)
Oral and written communication of research results including graphics and text. Addresses graphical presentation of data and conceptual development of a scientific presentation and a manuscript. Emphasizes the basics of clear and effective scientific communication. Work culminates in the development of a scientific manuscript for peer review.
Prerequisite: Accepted Ph.D. student in biomedical engineering.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2020 Fall Term, 2019 Spring Term, 2017 Fall Term, 2016 Fall Term
BIEN 8210 Teaching Methodologies (3 credits)
Seminar aimed at issues important for teaching in a university setting. Topics include: development of teaching philosophy, planning a class, designing a syllabus, assessing student learning and using technology in the classroom. Taught in conjunction with the Preparing Future Faculty (PFF) program.
Prerequisite: Accepted Ph.D. student in biomedical engineering.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2017 Spring Term, 2016 Spring Term, 2015 Spring Term, 2014 Fall Term
BIEN 8995 Independent Study in Biomedical Engineering (1-3 credits)
In-depth research on a topic or subject matter usually not offered in the established curriculum with faculty and independent of the classroom setting.
Prerequisite: Cons. of instr. and cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Fall Term, 2022 Spring Term, 2021 Fall Term, 2020 Fall Term
BIEN 8999 Doctoral Dissertation (1-12 credits)
S/U grade assessment.
Prerequisite: Cons. of instr.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Fall Term, 2023 Spring Term, 2022 Spring Term, 2021 Spring Term
BIEN 9970 Graduate Standing Continuation: Less than Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Designated as less than half-time status only, cannot be used in conjunction with other courses, and does not qualify students for financial aid or loan deferment.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2023 Spring Term, 2021 Fall Term, 2021 Spring Term, 2020 Fall Term
BIEN 9974 Graduate Fellowship: Full-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Designated as full-time status. If a student is already registered in other courses full time, this continuation course is not needed.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2019 Spring Term, 2018 Fall Term, 2018 Spring Term, 2016 Summer Term
BIEN 9975 Graduate Assistant Teaching: Full-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Designated as full-time status. If a student is already registered in other courses full time, this continuation course is not needed.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2021 Spring Term, 2020 Fall Term, 2020 Spring Term, 2019 Fall Term
BIEN 9976 Graduate Assistant Research: Full-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Designated as full-time status. If a student is already registered in other courses full time, this continuation course is not needed.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Fall Term, 2023 Fall Term, 2023 Spring Term, 2022 Fall Term
BIEN 9984 Master's Comprehensive Examination Preparation: Less than Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of less than half-time status. Requires that the student is working less than 12 hours per week toward their master's comprehensive exam.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2009 Fall Term, 2008 Fall Term, 2008 Spring Term, 2007 Fall Term
BIEN 9985 Master's Comprehensive Examination Preparation: Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of half-time status. Requires that the student is working more than 12 to less than 20 hours per week toward their master's comprehensive exam. May be taken in conjunction with credit-bearing or other non-credit courses to result in the status indicated, as deemed appropriate by the department.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2009 Fall Term, 2008 Fall Term, 2008 Spring Term, 2007 Fall Term
BIEN 9986 Master's Comprehensive Examination Preparation: Full-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of full-time status. Requires that the student is working 20 hours or more per week toward their master's comprehensive exam. May be taken in conjunction with credit-bearing or other non-credit courses to result in the status indicated, as deemed appropriate by the department.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2009 Fall Term, 2008 Fall Term, 2008 Spring Term, 2007 Fall Term
BIEN 9987 Doctoral Qualifying Examination Preparation: Less than Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of less than half-time status. Requires that the student is working less than 12 hours per week toward their doctoral qualifying exam.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2008 Spring Term, 2007 Fall Term
BIEN 9988 Doctoral Qualifying Examination Preparation: Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of half-time status. Requires that the student is working more than 12 to less than 20 hours per week toward their doctoral qualifying exam. May be taken in conjunction with credit-bearing or other non-credit courses to result in the status indicated, as deemed appropriate by the department.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2008 Spring Term, 2007 Fall Term
BIEN 9989 Doctoral Qualifying Examination Preparation: Full-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of full-time status. Requires that the student is working 20 hours or more per week toward their doctoral qualifying exam. May be taken in conjunction with credit-bearing or other non-credit courses to result in the status indicated, as deemed appropriate by the department.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2018 Spring Term, 2008 Spring Term, 2007 Fall Term
BIEN 9991 Professional Project Continuation: Less than Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of less than half-time status. Requires that the student is working less than 12 hours per week on their professional project. Any professional project credits required for the degree should be completed before registering for non-credit Professional Project Continuation.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2012 Summer Term, 2011 Summer Term, 2010 Summer Term, 2009 Summer Term
BIEN 9992 Professional Project Continuation: Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of half-time status. Requires that the student is working more than 12 to less than 20 hours per week on their professional project. Any project credits required for the degree should be completed before registering for non-credit Professional Project Continuation.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2012 Summer Term, 2011 Summer Term, 2010 Summer Term, 2009 Summer Term
BIEN 9993 Professional Project Continuation: Full-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of full-time status. Requires that the student is working 20 hours or more per week on their professional project. Any professional project credits required for the degree should be completed before registering for non-credit Professional Project Continuation.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2012 Summer Term, 2011 Summer Term, 2010 Summer Term, 2009 Fall Term
BIEN 9994 Master's Thesis Continuation: Less than Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of less than half-time status. Requires that the student is working less than 12 hours per week on their master's thesis. All six thesis credits required for the degree should be completed before registering for non-credit Master's Thesis Continuation.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Fall Term, 2023 Fall Term, 2023 Spring Term, 2022 Fall Term
BIEN 9995 Master's Thesis Continuation: Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of half-time status. Requires that the student is working more than 12 to less than 20 hours per week on their master's thesis. All six thesis credits required for the degree should be completed before registering for non-credit Master's Thesis Continuation.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Fall Term, 2024 Spring Term, 2023 Fall Term, 2023 Spring Term
BIEN 9996 Master's Thesis Continuation: Full-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of full-time status. Requires that the student is working 20 hours or more per week on their master's thesis. All six thesis credits required for the degree should be completed before registering for non-credit Master's Thesis Continuation.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Fall Term, 2024 Summer Term, 2024 Spring Term, 2023 Fall Term
BIEN 9997 Doctoral Dissertation Continuation: Less than Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of less than half-time status. Requires that the student is working less than 12 hours per week on their doctoral dissertation. All 12 dissertation credits required for the degree should be completed before registering for non-credit Doctoral Dissertation Continuation.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2016 Summer Term, 2016 Spring Term, 2013 Fall Term, 2012 Spring Term
BIEN 9998 Doctoral Dissertation Continuation: Half-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of half-time status. Requires that the student is working more than 12 to less than 20 hours per week on their doctoral dissertation. All 12 dissertation credits required for the degree should be completed before registering for non-credit Doctoral Dissertation Continuation.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Fall Term, 2024 Spring Term, 2023 Fall Term, 2023 Spring Term
BIEN 9999 Doctoral Dissertation Continuation: Full-Time (0 credits)
Fee. SNC/UNC grade assessment. Allows a student to be considered the equivalent of full-time status. Requires that the student is working 20 hours or more per week on their doctoral dissertation. All 12 dissertation credits required for the degree should be completed before registering for non-credit Doctoral Dissertation Continuation.
Prerequisite: Cons. of dept. ch.
Level of Study: Graduate
Last four terms offered: 2024 Fall Term, 2024 Spring Term, 2023 Fall Term, 2023 Spring Term