personal statement for masters in biomedical engineering

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Crafting Your Biomedical Engineering Personal Statement: Engineer Your Path

• Introduction

Aspiring to become a biomedical engineer is a noble pursuit that entails a unique blend of science, engineering principles, and a passion for improving the quality of life.

Your journey toward this career path begins with crafting an exceptional personal statement. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve deep into the intricacies of creating an impactful biomedical engineering personal statement that can set you apart from the competition.

• Unveiling the Biomedical Engineering Personal Statement

Your personal statement is not just a part of your university application; it’s a narrative of your journey, aspirations, and the potential impact you can have as a biomedical engineer. In this section, we’ll explore the essential components that should be present in your personal statement to make it truly shine.

Defining Your Passion

To kickstart your personal statement, you should vividly express your passion for biomedical engineering. Take the reader on a journey back to the moment you realized this was your calling. Whether it was a childhood fascination with the human body or an awe-inspiring experience in a medical environment, your passion should shine through.

Consider the following example:

“My journey into the world of biomedical engineering began at a young age when I was fascinated by the intricate workings of the human body. I vividly remember the day I first dissected a frog in biology class; the intricate network of veins and muscles ignited a spark within me. From that moment on, I knew I wanted to be part of a field that harnessed science and engineering to enhance the human experience.”

Academic Journey

Your academic journey plays a pivotal role in your personal statement. Admissions committees want to see evidence of your ability to excel in relevant subjects. Share your aptitude in mathematics, physics, and biology, and explain how these subjects have prepared you for a degree in biomedical engineering.

Here’s an example of how to incorporate your academic journey:

“During my A-levels, I immersed myself in subjects like mathematics, physics, and biology. These subjects not only challenged me but also fueled my passion for biomedical engineering.

I aced advanced mathematics courses, which honed my problem-solving skills and instilled a deep appreciation for the role of physics in medical technology. These academic experiences solidified my decision to study biomedical engineering.”

Work Experience and Volunteering

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Work experience and volunteering opportunities in healthcare or engineering can set your personal statement apart. Describe any relevant experiences and explain how they allowed you to gain valuable skills and insights. Highlight the tangible impact of your work and how it aligns with your passion for biomedical engineering.

Use this example to demonstrate the significance of work experience:

“During my gap year, I had the privilege of working at a local medical equipment manufacturer. This opportunity exposed me to the practical aspects of biomedical engineering.

I was part of a team that designed and tested medical devices, and I could see firsthand how our work directly improved the lives of patients. This experience not only honed my engineering skills but also deepened my commitment to the field.”

Problem-solving and Engineering Techniques

One of the key traits of a successful biomedical engineer is the ability to solve complex problems and apply engineering techniques effectively. In your personal statement, showcase your problem-solving abilities and your proficiency in applying engineering techniques. Illustrate how these skills are crucial in the context of biomedical engineering.

Here’s an example that highlights your problem-solving skills:

“My academic journey and work experiences have honed my problem-solving skills. In my A-level coursework, I encountered challenging problems that required innovative solutions.

For example, during a class project, I faced the task of optimizing the design of a medical imaging device to minimize radiation exposure. This experience taught me the importance of precision, creativity, and ethical considerations in biomedical engineering.”

Impact on Healthcare

Biomedical engineers have the unique privilege of contributing to the improvement of healthcare and the overall quality of life. In your personal statement, express your desire to make a meaningful impact through the creation of new medical devices and technology. Emphasize how biomedical engineering plays a pivotal role in the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.

Utilize this example to convey your commitment to making a difference:

“My ultimate goal as a biomedical engineer is to make a positive impact on healthcare. I envision a future where innovative medical devices and technology transform the way we diagnose and treat diseases.

Whether it’s developing cutting-edge imaging techniques or designing efficient medical equipment, I am committed to being at the forefront of these advancements to improve the lives of countless individuals.”

Extracurricular Activities

Extracurricular activities are an essential aspect of your personal statement. They provide insight into your leadership, communication, and teamwork skills. Highlight any relevant activities that have honed your skills and experiences, making you an ideal candidate for a biomedical engineering degree.

Consider this example to showcase your extracurricular involvement:

“Outside of the classroom, I actively participated in robotics competitions and biomechanics clubs. These experiences not only deepened my understanding of engineering principles but also allowed me to work collaboratively with diverse teams. I developed leadership skills, learned to communicate effectively, and enjoyed applying classroom knowledge to real-world challenges.”

• UCAS Recommendations and Uni Comparisons

When applying for a degree in biomedical engineering, it’s crucial to consider UCAS recommendations and compare undergraduate universities. Each institution may offer unique programs and opportunities, so make an informed choice that aligns with your career path.

UCAS Recommendations

UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service, provides guidelines for your personal statement. Pay close attention to their recommendations regarding the length and content of your statement. While UCAS doesn’t dictate specific content, they emphasize the importance of personal experiences, passion, and suitability for the chosen course.

Ensure you adhere to their guidelines to create a statement that stands out and aligns with the expectations of admissions committees.

University Comparisons

Choosing the right university for your biomedical engineering journey is a critical decision. Take the time to research and compare undergraduate programs. Consider factors like course curriculum, faculty expertise, research opportunities, and campus facilities.

Additionally, look for universities that offer the specific areas of biomedical engineering that interest you, whether it’s medical imaging, biomaterials, biomechanics, or another specialization. Make an informed choice that aligns with your career goals.

Crafting a biomedical engineering personal statement is a journey in itself, one that reflects your passion, skills, and aspirations as an aspiring engineer.

By following the guidelines and examples provided in this comprehensive guide, you can create a personal statement that not only secures your spot in a reputable university but also propels you toward a fulfilling career in biomedical engineering.

Remember, your personal statement is your opportunity to engineer your path toward a brighter and more impactful future.

FAQs – Your Biomedical Engineering Personal Statement Queries Answered

Q1: what should i avoid in my biomedical engineering personal statement.

Avoid clichés, vague statements, and excessive technical jargon. Instead, focus on personal experiences, your passion, and the impact you wish to make as a biomedical engineer. Be genuine and authentic in your writing.

Q2: How long should my personal statement be?

UCAS recommends a maximum of 4,000 characters or 47 lines for your personal statement. Be concise while covering all relevant aspects of your journey and aspirations.

Q3: Can I mention work experience outside of engineering?

Yes, you can mention work experience outside of engineering if it relates to your skills or passion. Transferable skills acquired in diverse settings can be valuable in biomedical engineering.

Q4: Is it necessary to mention specific universities in my personal statement?

While not mandatory, mentioning specific universities can demonstrate your dedication to the program if done thoughtfully. Avoid generic statements and ensure your choice aligns with your career goals.

Q5: Can I edit my personal statement after submitting it through UCAS?

No, once you’ve submitted your personal statement through UCAS, you cannot make changes. Therefore, it’s crucial to review and refine your statement thoroughly before sending it off.

• FAQs - Your Biomedical Engineering Personal Statement Queries Answered

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Table of Contents

• • Introduction
• • Unveiling the Biomedical Engineering Personal Statement
• • UCAS Recommendations and Uni Comparisons
• • Conclusion
• • FAQs - Your Biomedical Engineering Personal Statement Queries Answered

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Personal statement example biomedical engineering personal statement.

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Biomedical Engineering Personal Statement

From a wooden toe in 950BC, to modern day bionic hands, the advances made in Biomedical Engineering have been awe-inspiring. Their applications, such as in giving someone the opportunity to walk again and diagnosing medical conditions, through the use of prosthetics and machineries such as CT scanners are reasons why I wish to study this discipline at degree level.

I believe my interest in the thought of discovering solutions to impairments preventing the human body from working to its full potential stems from being diagnosed with childhood cataracts. This resulted in the lens in my right eye being replaced with an artificial one. At the time, I was unaware of the major role Biomedical Engineering played in the restoration of my eyesight but as I have grown older, I have come to realise its significance and want to help others benefit from this rapidly evolving industry that had such a positive impact on my life. During my work experience at Ultra Electronics, I worked with software such as SolidWorks. I was able to create and model prototypes that could then be adapted to be used as medical equipment to help diagnose and treat patients. I also learnt about how crucial accuracy and attention to detail is in problem solving within engineering.

By attending a 'Biology in Action' programme, my interest in Biology increased as I was introduced to different aspects and applications of the subject. For example, there was a presentation on how specific traits could be passed on to offspring through their mothers and this was done as an experiment using mice. I developed my interest in Biomedical Engineering by watching a TEDTalk by Hugh Herr titled 'New bionics let us run, climb and dance'. I realised that the use of bionics could not just give back the ability to perform fundamental functions, such as walking but it also allows for the use of going beyond the basics, for example, relearning a particular passion such as dancing or ice skating or even ice hockey.

Mathematics is more than just a subject I enjoy; I could not fathom doing a degree where Mathematics was not a significant component. Studying Mathematics A-Level has allowed me to gain many transferrable skills including numerical and problem-solving skills which require application of knowledge that is similar to the challenges an engineer may face. Biology has given me a greater understanding of the human body and how easily processes such as mitosis and meiosis could go wrong, affecting quality of life. This allowed me to understand and appreciate the complexity of the human body. Performing experiments in both Biology and Chemistry allowed me to demonstrate my ability to work well within a team and improve my attention to detail. I look forward to applying and furthering the knowledge gained during my A-level to my degree.

Additionally, I have developed excellent team working and leadership skills by participating in the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh scheme which allowed me to improve my communication skills. Completing work experience in Osbon Pharmacy enabled me to interact with people from different backgrounds and personalities allowing me to adapt my behaviour to meet the individual needs of the customers. Contributing my free time in school to offer in-class support for Year 7 Mathematics students and being a 'Listening Ear' to Year 7 students not only allowed me to share the knowledge I have gained over my years of education but it gave me the opportunity to actively interact with them and further improve my people skills.

The fascination I have regarding the operations of the human body and my understanding of the application of engineering techniques to it, coupled with my passion for this course and overall ability to persevere, are what I believe enables me to pursue a degree in Biomedical Engineering.

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• Personal Statements
• Biomedical Engineering Personal Statement

Biomedical Engineering Personal Statement Example

Sample statement.

Physics and maths have always been my strongest subjects and a natural pathway for me would be a career in engineering. Coupled with that I have a leaning towards medicine; I also enjoy biology and I would love to be able to work towards helping people in a healthcare environment. Doing work experience in the radiology department of a large teaching hospital was exciting because it demonstrated the role of physics and engineering in modern medicine. Physicists and engineers have made MRI scans, CT scans and even more exotic techniques such as laparoscopic and robotic surgery possible. These are now benefiting many thousands of patients worldwide.

Biomedical engineering is therefore my dream subject and I would relish the opportunity to study it at university and progress into working as a biomedical engineer. Many challenges in medicine remain that will require the ingenuity and innovation that can only come from people who are highly qualified in engineering concepts but also have a deep knowledge of the way the human body works and what can go wrong. I am thrilled that there is a career pathway open to me to combine my own special interests and to potentially make a difference to the way medicine is practised in the future.

In addition to human biology I also have a strong interest in ecological science and a belief that we all need to be much more responsible about our individual impact on the environment. I participated in an award scheme at school to improve the environment in our village. We raised money for two extra waste bins at the local football ground, where littering was a constant problem, by doing a sponsored swim and a sponsored 10k run. I am no athlete but following advice from the Physical Education teacher at college, I started running 5 times a week, building up slowly so that by the time of the race I could run 10K comfortably. It wasn’t about winning, which I didn’t, but the sense of achievement in fulfilling a physical challenge was enormous.

Since then I have been much more aware of the pleasure of exercise and plan to keep running. Part of my work experience this year has been to work with the local primary school to set up physics experiments on motion. We had great fun building ramps and measuring the times of different toy cars over different lengths and inclines. To my surprise, one of the teachers had also run in the 10K and I was asked to help organise the school sports day. Working with the children to set up the races and to manage the teams on the day was very rewarding.

Last summer I signed up to visit Tanzania to participate in a project to build a classroom at a local school. This was hard work but one of the best experiences of my life. I was using my engineering knowledge in a real-life construction, which was a lot more challenging and physical than I expected but the reaction of the local children was amazing. It made me reflect on the way that we take education for granted in the UK.

Biomedical engineering will enable me to build on the skills and experiences I have had so far and to stretch myself in many different directions. I feel that I will rise to the challenge of undergraduate study and intend to make the most of every moment as a university student.

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Graduate School Statement of Purpose Tips

Not sure what the statement of purpose in the BE PhD application is supposed to look like? You’ve come to the right place. Let’s break it down.

The two most important questions to answer in your personal statement are:

• What have I done during my time as an undergraduate and afterward to prepare myself for being a Biological Engineering PhD Student?
• How do I show I am a good fit for the BE program specifically at MIT?

Let’s start with some tips on addressing the first point – your past experiences and preparation for a PhD program:

• Your personal statement should describe your most important previous research experience(s) in depth. For those who have worked in several labs, discuss only those experiences which were the most relevant to your scientific journey. For those who have only worked in one lab, do not panic, that is completely okay! Either way, just make sure to describe both what you accomplished during your research and what you learned in the process. What you learned in the process should emphasize either transferable technical skills you picked up, such as writing well-organized code, or research “soft skills” that you gained, such as working independently or collaboratively. Frequent approaches to talking about previous research with a compelling narrative include discussing a challenge you overcame and what you took away from it, discussing a moment of failure and how you moved forward, or discussing a moment that brought you joy to be doing research. You can spend multiple paragraphs addressing previous research. Also, feel free to mention if any patents or publications came out of your work (and it’s completely fine if not).
• If your transcript does not include both fundamental biology and quantitative coursework, discuss how you have demonstrated competency in the missing area. It is usually best to leave your coursework to your transcript unless there are one or two advanced courses you feel had a large impact on your research interests. However, if you haven’t had any fundamental biology courses (like biochemistry or cellular biology), describe ways (e.g. online courses, reading, or research) that you have gained an understanding of how biological systems operate. Similarly, if your transcript does not include courses with significant quantitative components (such as ODEs, introductory programming, probability and statistics, or thermodynamics), discuss how you’ve supplemented your coursework with quantitative material.

Okay now for the trickier part. How do you show you are a good fit for Biological Engineering specifically at MIT? Here are some tips:

• Your personal statement should show that your goals align with the MIT BE mission to further knowledge at the interface of biology and engineering. The MIT Biological Engineering graduate admissions committee wishes to know how you plan to fuse an understanding of how biological systems work (especially at the molecular and cellular levels) with engineering approaches (such as mathematical modeling, computation, and/or hands-on design) in order to measure, model, manipulate, make, or quantitatively analyze biological systems in novel ways for societal benefit.
• Your personal statement should describe your research interests moving forward, and should discuss how they tie into the research people in the department currently do. It is recommended you specifically mention at least two (preferably three) professors with whom you would be interested in working. Rather than saying you are “generally interested in biological engineering,” discuss specific examples of subdisciplines (or even sub-subdisciplines) you would like to work in, such as “mammalian synthetic biology,” “cancer immunotherapy,” or “neurological drug delivery.” Make sure to describe why you are interested in these subdisciplines. It is often helpful to give examples of specific scientific questions you would like to answer or engineering challenges you would like to work on. Tying these ideas to work currently being done in the department/program will make them much more impactful. These interests may easily change while you are in the program, but it is still important to show you have identified and reflected upon the research directions you most likely want to pursue. Additionally, not all the faculty members you mention must be doing exactly what you are interested in so long as you can explain how your research interests fit with theirs.

Finally, here are a few miscellaneous tips to polish it off:

• Your personal statement should emphasize how your previous experiences will help you achieve the scientific goals you’ve described. Basically, when you read back over your statement, it should be clear how what you’ve done in the past makes you qualified to do what you want in the future. It’s okay if you still have many skills you need to pick up on the way! That’s expected. It’s also okay if you don’t want to do the same thing in grad school as you did in/after undergrad (that’s extremely common). Just make sure to at some point explain how what you previously worked on makes you a good candidate for researching the kind of things you want in the future. This could include technical skills (e.g. you now want to apply machine learning to immunology rather than neuroscience) or soft skills (e.g. your comfort with independently designing experimental protocols will be helpful for making new methods for performing cellular measurements). Sentences addressing this point can be peppered throughout the narrative, or you can section off a paragraph for it, but make sure it goes in a logical place.
• At the end, your personal statement should very briefly discuss long-term career goals and research visions. There is no right answer, and there are no expectations that you would know now, but best guesses are helpful. This can just be one to two sentences. And you don’t have to say that you want to be a professor unless that is something you think you might want to do!
• Your personal statement should be no more than 2 pages (single-spaced).   Them’s the rules.

Additional Resources:

• Get more tips on personal statements from the BE Comm Lab here .
• Tips for CVs/Resumes and templates .
• Don’t forget to prep for interviews .

Blog post written by BE graduate students Dylan Hirsch, Molly Parsons, and the Graduate Student DEI recruitment working group. 

Posted Sept 2021.

Biomedical Engineering

Author: syed alwi al-haddad, applied in: winter 2019, university offers: imperial college, ucl, manchester, edinburgh, cambridge interview.

As long as I could remember, I've always thought I've wanted to follow the path of my father and become a neurosurgeon. This was until a year ago when I took a 6-month break and questioned what I wanted to become. I realized my true passion, trying to understand the world around me and implement it into the problems I faced. Thus, I chose the field, engineering.

Watching YouTubers like Destin from SmarterEveryDay, Derek from Veritasium and Mark sparked my interest in engineering and showed me to question the world around me (why this works like this...). In SmarterEveryDay, Destin teaches to explore the world using science and to use it to further understand the world around him, people like Mark Rober show how to use your understanding of the world around you into practice.

Watching videos of my dad doing neurosurgery amazes me, especially the machinery he uses to perform these operations. The new technology used for surgery fascinates me, such as the gamma knife which can be used to destroy a tumour without having to perform a single incision or the Da Vinci robot which can be used to make precise movements that even the human hand is not capable of doing. My love for the machinery used in medicine lead me to the path of the Biomedical field of engineering.

When I see broken items and especially electronics, I see it as an opportunity to learn more about the item or to put my existing knowledge of the item into practice. In my free time, I will try to fix the broken things I find in my house such as soldering the wires in my headphones together or replacing the LCD for my phone. Even if the item is beyond repair, I will take it as an opportunity to take it apart and learn more about it.

Whenever I learn something new, I will try to implement it into the real world to test my understanding, such as applying mechanics into the movement of machines or using biology to further understand the human body. I will try not to miss the opportunity to put my theoretical knowledge into practice or test my understanding of the world in local competitions. In my secondary years, I represented my school in a nationwide competition called the Ultimate Maths Competition where my group made it to the semi-finals and this year, I also represented my college in the National Mathematics Olympiad. These competitions have taught me that maths is not just about calculations but also about solving problems and through these competitions my love for maths has grown further.

In my free time, I try to further understand the world around me through my phone, a book or whatever I can get my hands on. I learnt the basics of JavaScript to understand how basic apps and games work. In learning to code, it has taught me to be patient if the program does not run as I wish it to and to reread all the code to search for problems but with this, I see coding as a rewarding experience when the code executes properly. Likewise, I have learnt to be better at problem-solving and to think outside the box through challenging puzzle games such as Portal, Scribblenauts and Fez.

My experience as a class representative in college has taught me to be responsible for the people under my care and has also taught me that a leader should serve the people and not the other way around. I have also volunteered in public retreats which have taught me to be patient while serving others and that, helping is helping no matter how small the effect is.

I was born in the United Kingdom and lived there for 13 years of my life before my family moved back to Malaysia. I have also travelled the world from east to west meeting rich and poor nations and I have friends from all over the globe. I enjoy meeting new faces, working with different cultures and personalities.

Engineering is changing the way we live our lives and I believe that with my determination that I will put my utmost effort into further increasing my knowledge to change the world for the better.

Please note UCAS will detect any form of plagiarism. PSE and its contributors do not take any responsibility for the way in which personal statements are used.

CollegeLAH is a website by the students for the students, featuring the honest story of applications and university life as told by Malaysians. It’s a non-profit social project to help Malaysian students to achieve their higher-education dreams and inspire them to reach their full potential. 

Biomedical Engineering Personal Statement (Anonymous 1)

This personal statement was part of this student’s successful application to  Imperial College London ,  UCL, King’s College London, University of Glasgow  and  University of Dundee  for Biomedical Engineering.

Helping in any way that I can afford fuels me as a person on a day to day basis, thus pursuing knowledge in a field that involves a hybrid of engineering principles and biology intrigues me as a deep understanding in it would enable me to help improve lives on a large scale. I became drawn to biology ever since I learned about it in school, and after further reading and studying, I have decided that I want to work in the medical field one day so that I can continue learning and make a difference in people’s lives. Together with my keen interest in solving problems, biomedical engineering became the clear choice of career path.

My interest in engineering has been amplified ever since I started watching documentaries such as “Engineering an Empire” and “Mythbusters”. The way machines can be engineered to carry out specific tasks efficiently fascinate me. I enjoy applying physical and mathematical knowledge to make my daily life easier. As a scout in secondary school, I would always figure out ways to build structures out of wood and string to make gadgets to be used in camp. Pioneering sessions were my favourite, as I was allowed to express my creativity in design and engineering.

I took A level Biology, by doing that I have gained appreciation of how individual components in the body work together harmoniously to form multiple systems that help our bodies function, and how the dysfunction of any component could disrupt the systems. I want to create new innovations that could solve problems that still remain mystery. I also aspire to make them more accessible to the general public because as of now majority of medical equipment such as artificial limbs and artificial hearts are priced quite greatly, thus many people are unable to afford them. 

I believe everyone should be given a chance to live as if they did not have disabilities. In secondary school I organised a trip for a group of students to visit a mentally disabled children’s home. Seeing how the children were abandoned at this home due to their unavoidable disabilities changed my perspective, no one should be treated as less than due to disability, and I wish for the children to be able to live their lives with more ease. I believe that my pursuit in biomedical engineering may provide a solution to make at least one child’s life in that home more wholesome.

I constantly hear people say that males are ‘smarter’ especially when it comes to STEM subjects. I do not wish for women to feel intimidated in entering a male dominated field. I want everyone to be able to express their passion and pursue them without feeling judged or oppressed. I grew up in an environment where people discourage females in pursuing higher education, where only men are expected to provide for the family financially. As a female, I want to contribute to breaking such stigmas, I want to prove that anyone can pursue their dreams despite gender, race, or disability.

In secondary school, I was the vice captain of my school’s sports house, the secretary of the track and field society, troop leader in scouts, and president of the Interact Club. In college I was the deputy secretary on the student council. I believe that the team work skills and leadership skills I learned through these experiences will make me a suitable student for university.

I would like to study in the UK due to its impressive international reputation in producing well rounded students. Also, very few institutions in Malaysia offer my desired course, which is why I have decided to study abroad instead of locally.

I believe that I have the drive, passion and academic ability to succeed in this programme. I want to explore this vast field and discover what is best suited for me, I want to make a change in this world, and I intend to do so being equipped with the skills of a biomedical engineer.

DISCLAIMER:  The personal statements on this site are strictly meant as a starting point to give an idea of how successful personal statements look like. There is no surefire formula to writing good personal statements.  COLLEGELAH IS STRICTLY AGAINST PLAGIARISM OF ANY KIND .  UCAS employs a plagiarism check system  that checks applicants’ work against other published writing so please  DO NOT PLAGIARISE.

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Better Personal Statement for Masters in Biomedical Science With Example

Table of Contents

Are you applying for a Master’s in Biomedical Science and need help with your personal statement?

Writing a compelling personal statement is essential to be accepted to university. In this blog post, we’ll provide valuable tips on writing a creative personal statement for Masters in Biomedical Sciences . 

What Is a Personal Statement for Masters in Biomedical Science?

A personal statement for Master in Biomedical Science is a document that provides insight into your academic background, experiences and ambitions . It should provide evidence of why you are suitable for the course and what you can bring to it. 

What Should I Include in My Personal Statement?

When writing your personal statement, it’s essential to focus on showing how you meet the entry requirements for the course. You should outline any qualifications or relevant experience that makes you suitable for the program. Additionally, please explain why this particular course interests you and how it relates to your goals and objectives. 

It’s also important to demonstrate how your past experiences have developed critical thinking skills that will be useful in a research environment. Your personal statement should demonstrate how you can contribute to the broader academic community . 

Steps to Writing a Personal Statement for Masters in Biomedical Science

Research the Program

First and foremost, you should research the program that you are applying to. Doing so will give you insight into what material is relevant and important for your application. Understanding the program’s expectations can help you craft a more successful personal statement as you demonstrate knowledge about their requirements and goals. 

Outline Your Statement

Once you have gathered all relevant information about the program, it’s important to write an outline for your statement. This will help you break down each aspect of your personal statement to stay organized and focused on only the most pertinent information. Spend some time brainstorming and jotting down ideas about what you can bring to the program. 

Include Important Information

When writing your personal statement, make sure to include your academic background and any research experience or other activities. The ones you have participated in that demonstrate your qualifications for Biomedical Science studies. You should also mention how the program aligns with your academic goals. In addition, be sure to mention any specific areas of interest within the field you wish to pursue during your studies. 

Keep It Professional

A personal statement should remain professional in tone. Ensure your language is clear and concise, avoiding slang or overly informal language. Also, use the exact words or concepts sparingly; use various terms to convey different ideas effectively. Also, ensure you proofread your work for any grammar or spelling errors before submitting it. 

Example of a Personal Statement for Masters in Biomedical Science

I am a recent biological sciences graduate interested in pursuing a Master’s Degree in Biomedical Science at your esteemed university. I have achieved excellent grades throughout my academic career and have gained valuable experience through research projects and volunteer work related to biomedicine. 

My studies over the past four years have given me essential knowledge on important topics such as Anatomy, Physiology, Pharmacology, Pathology, and Medical Genetics. Through these classes, I developed critical skills necessary for working in the biomedical field, like analytical thinking, complex problem-solving, scientific communication, and data analysis. Additionally, I participated in two research projects where I conducted gene manipulation and protein production experiments that were presented at national symposiums. My volunteer work at a local hospital has also given me an understanding of the medical profession and the importance of biomedical research. 

The program offered by your university provides an excellent opportunity to further pursue my passion for biomedical science. This allowed me to specialize in areas such as stem cell biology, bioinformatics, and cancer research. I am confident I will make a meaningful contribution to this field through my studies, and I am eager to start the program. 

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing from you soon. 

What Is the Formula for Writing a Catchy Personal Statement?

Start with why you chose it, then try and summarize it in a few sentences. Use personal experiences to attract attention. Avoid overused opening sentences, quotes, and clichés.

How Do Biomedicine and Biomedical Science Differ?

Wikipedia defines “biomedicine” as a subset of “biomedical science”. As a result, biomedical sciences provide more applications than biome.

Writing an effective personal statement for a Master in Biomedical Sciences can be challenging.

With some research and careful planning, you can create an impactful statement. This will get you one step closer to being accepted into the program. Follow these tips to help ensure your application stands out from the rest! 

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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How To Become a Biomedical Engineer

Industry Advice Engineering

Modern advances in medical technology have drastically improved the quality of care doctors are able to provide to patients. From diagnosis to treatment, biomedical devices continue to play a critical role in improving human health. Much of the credit for the development of these advanced technologies goes to biomedical engineers.

Here’s an overview of what a biomedical engineer does, how to become one, and why it’s an excellent career choice.

What Is Biomedical Engineering?

Biomedical engineering is a multidisciplinary field that applies engineering principles and techniques to biology and healthcare. It requires an in-depth understanding of life-science subjects such as biology, chemistry, and physics, as well as engineering knowledge in mathematics and design.

What Do Biomedical Engineers Do?

Biomedical engineers are tasked with a wide range of responsibilities depending on their industry. Common roles include:

• Designing medical devices: Developing medical imaging devices like MRIs, sonograms, ultrasound devices, and other medical technology
• Developing new innovations: Researching and contributing to the development of innovative medical advancements such as artificial organs, or replacement of body parts
• Collaborating with medical staff: Training other professionals on safety and the proper use of biomedical equipment, helping maintain medical devices, and troubleshooting medical equipment when necessary
• Research: Conducting statistical analysis, writing research papers, and offering valuable contributions to the overall scientific community on biomedical engineering methods and results

Biomedical engineers typically work behind the scenes and don’t have much interaction with patients. However, their work plays a critical role in patient recovery or improved quality of life. For this reason, many individuals are motivated to pursue a career as a biomedical engineer.

How to Become a Biomedical Engineer

For individuals interested in biological sciences, mathematics, engineering, and other related sub-disciplines, a position in biotechnology is the perfect career path. The steps to become a biomedical engineer are:

• Fulfill the educational requirements
• Obtain relevant experience
• Develop in-demand skills
• Obtain relevant qualifications, if required by employers

Educational Requirements

The first step to becoming a biomedical engineer is fulfilling the educational requirements of the role. Biomedical engineers typically need at least a bachelor’s in life sciences, biotechnology, or engineering. Many, however, continue their education by pursuing a graduate or doctoral degree as well. According to government data, almost 71 percent of biomedical engineers have a bachelor’s degree; of those, 42 percent also hold a master’s, and 14 percent earned a doctoral or professional degree.

Background Experience

Experience is an important aspect of any professional job posting. Many times employers want to know if applicants have been successful performing job responsibilities in other settings. According to government data, the largest percentage of experience requirements for biomedical engineer job postings is between four and six years of prior experience, comprising 31 percent of job postings. Only 18 percent of postings require one year of experience or less.

Since this industry values prior work experience, prospective biomedical engineers hoping to obtain relevant, hands-on experience, can greatly benefit from a program like the Master of Science in Biotechnology . These programs are designed specifically to prepare students for the workforce, presenting them with opportunities to collaborate with industry professionals and work with real-world projects.

In-Demand Skills

In addition to the experience and educational requirements, prospective biomedical engineers can set themselves apart from competing applicants by developing in-demand skills employers frequently look for.

Specialized Skills

Specialized, or “hard” skills, refer to job-specific skills required to achieve success in a biomedical engineering position. The top hard skills employers list on biomedical engineering job postings are:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Devices
• Electrical Engineering

Common Skills

Common, or “soft” skills, are the personal attributes required for biomedical engineers to succeed in their position. These skills aren’t job-specific, but often promote success in interpersonal interactions with team members, or in rare cases, patients. The most commonly listed soft skills in job postings are:

• Communications
• Troubleshooting (Problem Solving)

Top Qualifications

On top of any specialized skills specific to the industry, some biomedical engineering positions require certain credentials and certifications. Many of these certifications are job or industry specific, so you don’t need to pursue them unless you know they’re necessary. Nevertheless, it’s good to be aware that some jobs may require these credentials. According to a government report, some of the credentials listed in biomedical engineering job postings include:

• Engineer in Training (EIT)/Professional Engineer (PE): The EIT and PE certifications demonstrate a proficiency in the engineering field. Some positions give preference to applicants with these credentials, but in most cases biomedical engineers, particularly entry-level, don’t need this certification.
• Security Clearance: Some government positions require security clearance due to the sensitive nature of the position, but it’s not a typical requirement for biomedical engineering positions.

Jared Auclair , associate dean of the Professional Program and Graduate Affairs in the College of Science at Northeastern, recommends that prospective biomedical engineers not worry about these qualifications unless employers require them. “I wouldn’t pursue [these credentials] before I had a job,” he explains. “I would wait to see what was required for me to do that job, and then I would find a way to get those credentials, post-employment.”

Why Should You Consider Biomedical Engineering?

Biomedical engineering is a challenging career, but a rewarding one. A biomedical career typically offers several benefits, including a high average salary, job growth, and opportunities to make a difference.

High Average Salary

Biomedical engineers can obtain a wide range of salaries spanning from $24,000 to $160,000, depending on seniority, education, background, and whether the role is part time or full time. However, according to government data, the median salary of biomedical engineers is approximately $83,800 per year.

A relevant master’s degree can increase your earning potential. According to Auclair, “With a master’s degree, you can advance quickly and pretty far in a company, and the jobs pay pretty well.”

Additional data confirms that job postings requiring a master’s degree advertise a salary approximately 14 percent higher than those requiring a bachelor’s. Master’s-level biomedical engineers earn a median annual salary of nearly $95,000. Conversely, postings that require a bachelor’s degree advertise a median salary of $83,300 per year, and of those postings, 60 percent still prefer graduate-level applicants.

Growth Opportunities

Biomedical engineering is one of the most in-demand careers in the biotechnology industry . In terms of job opportunities, biomedical engineers have many choices. The healthcare industry offers a wide range of jobs for prospective biomedical engineers, including working in medical imaging, pharmaceuticals, neural engineering, mechanical engineering, and a variety of other options. Biomedical engineers can also advance their careers to management positions.

Make a Meaningful Difference

Healthcare professionals who take more of a hands-on role in patient care often receive the credit for patient recovery. While this credit is definitely well-deserved, they wouldn’t be able to provide the same quality of care without the work of biomedical engineers. The reality is that although biomedical engineers operate behind the scenes, they play an essential role in the healthcare industry.

One of biomedical engineers’ primary objectives is to improve patients’ quality of life by applying their engineering problem-solving skills to the medical field. They’re able to make a meaningful difference in others’ lives by increasing the efficiency of medical procedures through innovative technologies, or easing the diagnosis process for medical professionals by improving diagnostic technology. Individuals who are motivated to improve others’ quality of life will likely find biotechnology a rewarding career.

Take the Next Step Toward a Meaningful Career

For many, biomedical engineering is an appealing career. However, the educational requirements for higher-paying positions can be daunting. Auclair assures prospective students that pursuing an advanced degree in biotechnology is “definitely worth the investment, especially in the experiential master’s space.”

If you’re interested in developing the skills required to succeed in the biotechnology industry, consider applying for Northeastern’s Master of Science in Biotechnology program to expedite your biomedical engineering  career and obtain valuable, real-world experience and in-demand skills.

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How to Write a Great Engineering School Personal Statement

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You have spent months researching and identifying the best engineering schools, studying for and completing the SATs, GRE, or other standardized tests, and filling out tedious college applications. You are on the verge of burnout when it hits you: you have to write a personal statement.

How important is it to write a great personal statement? Ask the admissions committee, and they’ll tell you that writing a personal statement is like applying for a job. Stephen J Aguilar, an assistant professor of education at USC, reported in 2020 to Inside Higher Ed that a personal statement should be less revealing and more persuasive. At its core, the personal statement needs to answer these two questions:

• Why are you applying here?
• How do your interests and experiences align with the program or the faculty you’ve identified?

However, the importance of reading and understanding the question prompts cannot be overstated. For example, the University of Iowa College of Engineering, which places 97 percent of its undergraduates in jobs post-graduation and currently has 284 master’s and doctoral students, goes one step further to differentiate personal statements from statements of purpose .

This institution wants to know in the statement of purpose , “Why is this program a good fit for you?” By contrast, the personal statement elicits answers to the question: “Who are you?” and allows applicants to explain themselves to admissions committees regarding academic achievements and life events that have shaped them and will positively influence the campus community.

That said, a personal statement is not just an essay. It has to be intelligent, engaging, typo-free, and capable of convincing admissions reviewers that you are a better fit for their program. Fret not. With lots of research and preparation, you can submit a college essay that reflects your passion and capabilities.

Read on to learn the what, the why, and the how-to of writing great personal statements to gain admission into engineering school.

How Is a Personal Statement Evaluated?

The title "personal statement" is generally synonymous with college essays. However, some admissions professionals use it to refer more specifically to written statements that explore applicants’ program readiness and intentions if admitted. The purpose of these statements for engineering school applicants is three-fold.

First, colleges want to know that they can write well, and not just from a technical perspective. Of course, grammar matters, but perhaps more important is the ability to communicate ideas.

Second, engineering schools want to know who a student is—the nuggets that are not conveyed through a conventional application or school transcripts. This is the written equivalent of the interview question “tell us about yourself” and is the applicant’s chance to share who they are, what they want to do, and how gaining admission to this program will be mutually beneficial.

Finally, colleges want to ensure applicants are familiar with and committed to the program. The best personal statements fulfill these goals, often in 700 words or less.

Does this sound like a tall order? Here are some tips for getting it right.

Six Tips for Writing a Stellar Engineering School Personal Statement

1. Do the research

It may sound simplistic, but one of the most important (and often overlooked) steps toward getting into the right school is taking the time to research a prospective engineering program, review its admissions policies and—this cannot be overstated—read and reread its application essay prompt. Candidates who don’t sufficiently answer an institution’s question or convey some misunderstanding about the prompt or its expectations are unlikely to be admitted.

Prospective students completing the Common Application should take the time to contact each engineering school they are applying to inquire about additional admissions requirements. The Princeton Review emphasizes that a personal statement should not repeat a previously discussed part of your application, nor should its information contradict another part.

2. Go deep, not broad

Personal statement prompts tend to be targeted. Engineering schools want to know what specific qualities or experiences make each student a good fit for their programs. Common inquiries include recalling a time you solved a problem, explaining why you applied, describing your academic goals and intentions, and addressing any extenuating circumstances that might have impacted your school record. Rather than offering a broad synopsis of your life, choose the experience or intent most relevant to the question and explore it in depth.

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology Graduate School offers advice for writing an in-depth personal statement for engineering schools using the “qualified match” approach. The steps include:

• Make a statement that fits the essay prompt, like “I am a dedicated and hard-working student.”
• Quantify your statement with specific details about your life. You might, for example, discuss how many hours per week you spend on school work and how you overcome any obstacles to committing that time.
• Interpret how those details make you a stronger applicant. To continue with the above example, that might include writing about the knowledge you gained during your studies, your time-management skills, your passion for learning, and your commitment to succeed despite challenges.

3. Be relevant

If a personal statement has only one goal, it is to be shown to a review committee that you are the right fit for its school. That’s why applicants to Stanford University’s Institute for Computational & Mathematical Engineering are asked to specify their personal and professional goals in their statement of purpose, as well as discuss their developments and intentions for study and life beyond their doctoral program.

Read the mission statements of each program to get a feel for what they are looking for and keep that in mind as you write. Rather than getting carried away detailing the hours you log volunteering each week, discuss experiences and activities as they relate to your academic and career goals or scientific interests. Also, be sure not to waste valuable ink rehashing information available elsewhere on your application, such as extracurricular activities or your stellar GPA.

4. Avoid gimmicks and cliches

Did you love playing with Legos as a kid? Did those plastic bricks lay the foundation for your drive to be an engineer? If so, the College of Engineering at the University of Washington suggests you are in good company, but not in a good way. Every year, the committee reads personal essays on how Legos were the building blocks of a student's career in engineering.

To stand out, engineering school applicants should avoid using cliches in their statements. Of course, setting yourself apart from other applicants is imperative, but you must do so in a meaningful and unique way. Admissions review panels have seen it all and are unlikely to be moved by creative gimmicks and attention-grabbers that do not get to the heart of what makes you a great candidate.

5. Mind your mechanics

This tip refers more to the mechanics of writing than any scientific drive, though the latter undoubtedly has a place in an engineering school personal statement. Remember when we said one of the goals of college essays is verifying applicants can communicate effectively? Applicants should consider the following elements as they prepare their outline (more on that next):

• Voice – Is your voice appropriate for the task? Is it too formal or casual? Are you using active language rather than passive and wishy-washy statements? Do you come across as academic?
• Structure – Do your ideas flow logically and support one main idea? If you are unsure where to start, know that following the reliable five-paragraph essay format is perfectly acceptable: introduction, three supporting paragraphs, and a tidy conclusion.
• Length – Engineering schools usually have a good reason for requesting personal statements with a specific word count. Those that are too short have too little to say, and those that are too long are likely to repeat the same concepts.
• Grammar – College students are expected to know and use basic grammar. Edit, edit, and then edit again.
• Completeness – Have you addressed the admissions essay prompt in full? What about any supplemental school or department-specific requests?

6. Edit, edit, edit

Writing a personal statement may seem like a herculean task, so it is tempting to push it aside when you type that final period and not look back. This is a mistake—and perhaps the biggest one you can make. Sometimes we get so caught up in our thoughts and ideas that we miss lapses in our writing, whether grammatical or contextual. To avoid this:

• Begin with an outline.
• Write the first draft.
• Write a second draft.
• Read the essay out loud.
• Review your essay again a day or two later.
• Ask parents, friends, teachers, and others to read your work.

There is never any excuse for typos, and even the slightest error can turn a committee review member off. Ask a friend or family member to review your essay for grammatical mistakes when in doubt. It may be intimidating, but the process is an excellent way to identify missing words or ideas. What's more, applicants today are blessed with the power of technology. Online tools like Grammarly are free to use and quickly catch any glaring typos.

Starting Your Engineering School Admissions Essay

One of the biggest challenges to writing a stellar college essay is simply getting started in the first place. Personal statements are, by design, personal, and that can be intimidating. Applicants also put significant pressure on themselves to write the perfect essay.

Fortunately, many colleges try to ease the burden by providing tips online. Purdue University’s Online Writing Lab offers examples of successful personal statements. Some engineering schools even post examples of successful personal statements, including MIT , Johns Hopkins University , and Cornell University . While your essay should be wholly original, these resources can guide you through creating a unique and inspirational narrative to impress admissions committees.

Aimee Hosler is a long-time journalist specializing in education and technology. She is an advocate for experiential learning among all ages and serves as the director of communications for a non-profit community makerspace. She holds a degree in journalism from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo.

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