Frequently Asked Questions

Admissions

Do I need to have an undergraduate degree in biomedical engineering? 

An undergraduate degree in biomedical engineering is not a requirement. The program is designed for students who want to succeed in the medical technology industry and have the necessary quantitative and analytical skills. Students with undergraduate degrees in sciences, engineering, and economics are encouraged to apply.

Which quantitative skills are necessary for the program? 

Students with non-engineering undergraduate degrees are required to have taken four quantitative courses (12 cr.) and four natural science courses (12 cr.) See pre-requisite courses for details

Do I need work experience? 

No prior work experience is required for this program.

Is the GMAT or GRE required? 

No, completing the GMAT or GRE is not required for this program.

What are the application deadlines? 

There are 3 deadlines for admission in Fall or Winter: a 1st deadline, a final deadline for international students, and a final Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Admissions are rolling after the 1st deadline.

Is TOEFL or IELTS required? 

For candidates whose mother tongue is not English and who have not completed their degree in an English speaking country, the TOEFL or IELTS is required External link. The McGill Institution code is 0935.

What is the admission process? 

Read the admission process, application requirements, and submit your application through the online application system External link. We will review complete applications on a rolling basis after the first deadline. After a holistic review, the admissions committee will make the final decisions.

Who should I ask for references? 

We recommend you get references from people who know your strengths and competencies. The references could be academic references or professional references.

Is there an interview required for the application? 

No, interviews are not required but may be requested by the admissions committee.

If I am admitted, when do I have to respond? 

Candidates should accept their offer through the online application system  as soon as possible to ensure their place in the program is secured.

If I am admitted, can I defer my admission? 

Under exceptional circumstances, an applicant may defer his/her acceptance for a period no longer than one year. To apply for a deferral, the student must do so in writing, explaining the reasons for the deferral.

All international students are required to secure the CAQ and study permit prior to starting the program. See this page to learn more External link.

Program

What is the length of the McGill Master's and Graduate Certificate programs in Translational Biomedical Engineering? 

The Master's is a 45-credit program that is completed over the course of 12-16 months (minimum 3 terms). Typically students complete 2 terms of coursework followed by an 16-week internship.
The Gr. Cert. is a 15-credit program that is completed over the course of one year (minimum 2 terms).

Is there an accelerated option in the program for those who have prior background in biomedical engineering? 

No, there is no accelerated option. However, students may choose any appropriate 500-level courses at McGill for their Complementary Courses, as long as the chosen courses advance your professional goals in the medical technology industry.

What is unique about the McGill Non-Thesis programs Translational BME program? 

Studying Translational BME program gives you the opportunity to learn with medical technology industry experts and professors in biomedical engineering. Throughout the program, students gain essential skills and knowledge to lead the commercialization of novel medical technology.

Does the Master's or Certificate program help with the preparation for further academic studies in biological or biomedical engineering? 

The Master's and Certificate programs cover topics in fundamental biomedical engineering, but each focuses on preparing students for careers in industry, and is therefore not an academic research preparatory program. Nevertheless, some students choose to pursue further academic studies including thesis-based Master's and PhD programs, or medical school. 

Is there an internship or thesis? 

The Master's program includes a required 16-week internship following core and complementary coursework. There is no internship for the Certificate. Both are non-thesis programs. 

Tuition

How much does the program cost? 

Tuition is charged on a per-credit basis with differing rates depending on residency (Quebec, non-Quebec Canadians, and international students). Read more about tuition and other university fees and living expenses.

When are the fees due? 

Tuition is due only after the student has registered for the courses.

Are scholarships or financial aid available? 

There are currently no scholarship opportunities for this program, but student aid and work study programs External link are available.

Back to top