PhD Bioengineering at University of Pittsburgh

Programme overview

The Bioengineering PhD emphasises bioengineering research and education, applying engineering principles to biological phenomena and to instrumentation, materials, devices and systems for medicine and the life sciences, in collaboration with Pitt's health science schools and UPMC.

Faculty: Swanson School of Engineering | Department: Department of Bioengineering | Location: Pittsburgh, PA, United States

What you will study

Coursework followed by a preliminary examination at the end of year one, two one-credit teaching practicums, a PhD proposal ideally within about 18 months of the preliminary exam, and a public thesis defense.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Swanson School of Engineering graduate admission (all graduate programmes): cumulative GPA of 3.0/4.0 or higher (applicants below 3.0 are considered individually and may be admitted provisionally); GRE optional and not used in admission decisions; online application with transcripts from all post-secondary institutions; international applicants must show English proficiency unless they hold a degree from an institution in an English-speaking country (minimum TOEFL 81, IELTS 6.5, Duolingo 120). Bioengineering requires 3 letters of recommendation. Bioengineering deadlines: Spring 2027 October 15, 2026; Fall 2027 financial consideration December 1, 2026; Fall 2027 without funding April 1, 2027.

Requirements published at faculty level.

Domestic applicants: USD 30,628 a year (2026-27). Pennsylvania-resident graduate tuition, Swanson School of Engineering, full-time two terms (fall and spring). Tuition only; mandatory fees and other expenses excluded. Source

International applicants: USD 54,002 a year (2026-27). Out-of-state (non-PA resident) graduate tuition, Swanson School of Engineering, full-time two terms (fall and spring). Tuition only; mandatory fees and other expenses excluded. Source

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