What is Biomechanics & Biomaterials?
Biomechanics, broadly defined, is the study of structure and function. It is the application of principles from classical mechanics (that is, loads, motion, stress, and strain of solids and fluids) to problems in biological systems. While biomechanics principles are broadly applicable, this focus area emphasizes cardiovascular and/or musculoskeletal biomechanics. Cardiovascular biomechanics is a broad discipline that includes the heart, blood vessels, blood cells, and micro-circulation, while the emphasis on musculoskeletal biomechanics includes, but is not limited to, the study of bone, cartilage, ligament, tendon, and muscle development, adaptation, injury and repair; as well as the interaction between these tissues. In both branches of mechanics, the problems may be considered from basic, applied, and clinical perspectives. The study of biomaterials plays an important role in the design of implants and surgical instrumentation for both cardiovascular and musculoskeletal applications.
Focus Area Criteria
Each focus area consists of the following criteria:
- Required Courses: Complete four mandatory courses within your focus area.
- Engineering Topics: Select and complete two courses from the designated list of engineering topics relevant to your focus area.
- Electives: Choose five additional elective courses. These electives may be selected from:
The suggested electives list (see the curriculum map document above)
Courses required for a minor or certificate
Up to 3 semester hours of research credit
- Other courses not listed, provided they receive approval from your academic advisor and the Biomedical Engineering (BME) department
Approval for these electives is obtained through the submission of the Plan of Study form. Each student is encouraged to tailor their Plan of Study to include a cohesive set of courses that align with their personal career objectives. Faculty advisors are available to assist students in selecting the most appropriate courses for their Plan of Study. The focus area courses are in addition to the other BME degree requirements, which include engineering courses, math and science courses, general education courses, and seminars.
Example curriculum maps are provided for students interested in the following areas. Note that these are a suggested set and sequencing of elective courses; students can modify the courses and timing of the courses as desired based on their interests.
