Bioengineering
The Bioengineering Ph.D. program at Penn Engineering prepares students to become independent researchers and leaders in academia, industry, medicine and emerging areas of biotechnology. Through advanced coursework, interdisciplinary research and close faculty mentorship, doctoral students build the technical depth, scientific judgment and creative problem-solving skills needed to address complex challenges in human health, medicine and biological systems.
Explore the academic requirements that shape the Bioengineering Ph.D., including coursework, research milestones, seminar participation, responsible conduct of research training and dissertation expectations. This page also includes sample curriculum guidance and graduate course lists by focus area.
Review the typical path through the Bioengineering Ph.D. program, from first-year lab rotations and qualifying evaluations to thesis committee formation, proposal defense, candidacy and dissertation completion. This page helps students understand the order and timing of major program milestones.
Learn more about funding for Bioengineering Ph.D. students, including tuition, health insurance, stipend support and fellowship opportunities. This page highlights internal and external resources that can support doctoral training, proposal writing and graduate research development.
Discover combined degree pathways that allow Bioengineering doctoral students to pursue a Ph.D. alongside an M.D. or V.M.D. These programs are designed for students who want to connect clinical practice with bioengineering research and innovation in human or animal health.
