Biological Systems Engineering
Biomechanics/Pre-Medicine/Pre-Veterinary Medicine
This specialization is for students interested in the biomechanics of humans and animals, with emphasis on the physical, chemical, and biological factors affecting motion and function. Combined training in mechanics, material properties, and ergonomics allows graduates to work in industry on the design, evaluation, and application of medical devices as well as worker health and safety. Some students use the specialization as preparation for medical or veterinary school with the assurance of a marketable degree in engineering in case their post-graduation plans change. The biomechanics specialization is also excellent preparation for graduate work in biomedical engineering. Students interested in medical of veterinary school should consult with admissions advisers from the appropriate school to plan for successful admission, including necessary summer experience.
Recommended Biological Science Electives
| Quarter Offered | Course & Number | Units | Course Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| I,II,III | BIS 102 | 3 | Structure and Function of Biomolecules |
| III | EXB 103 | 4 | Analysis & Control of Human Movement |
| I,II,III | NPB 101 | 5 | Systemic Physiology |
Recommended Engineering Electives
| Quarter Offered | Course & Number | Units | Course Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| III | EBS 128 | 4 | Biomechanics and Ergonomics |
| II | EBS 175 | 3 | Rheology of Biological Materials |
| I | BIM 109 | 4 | Biomaterials |
| II | BIM 126 | 3 | Tissue Mechanics |
Pre-medical Basic Requirements (completed prior to MCAT)
- 1 year (12 qtr. units) English
- 1 year (15 qtr. units) Biological Science (including labs)
- 1 year (15 qtr. units) General Chemistry (including labs)
- 1 year (12 qtr. units) Organic Chemistry (118 series A,B.C)
- 1 year (12 qtr. units) Physics
- 6 quarter units Math (through integral calculus)
Additional Pre-medical Requirements (also completed prior to MCAT)
Courses in Biochemistry (BIS 102), Genetics (BIS 101), Bacteriology w/lab (MIC 102, 102L) and Physiology laboratory (NPB 101L) are strongly recommended.
Pre-Veterinary Medicine Basic Requirements
- 1 year (12 qtr. units) English
- 1 year (12 qtr. units) Humanities and Social Sciences
- 1 year (15 qtr. units) General Chemistry (including labs)
- 6 qtr. units Organic Chemistry (8A, 8B)
- 6 qtr. units Physics
- 10 qtr. units Biological Sciences (BIS 1A, 1B)
- 4 qtr. units Statistics
Additional Pre-Veterinary Medicine Requirements
Genetics (BIS 101), Biochemistry (BIS 102) and Physiology (NPB 101)
Suggested Advisers:
M. Delwiche, F. Fathallah, J. VanderGheynst