The M.S. BIOE is evidence of an ability to work as an engineer and researcher, who is capable of some independent investigation, and who can present the results of that investigation cogently. The holder of the Master's degree will have completed significant course work, a thesis that describes an independent investigation, and will have passed a final examination on the research underlying the thesis.

The program is rigorous, and places high demands on the student. Students must demonstrate that they understand interdisciplinary concepts, are able to generate testable hypotheses, design experiments, and collect and analyze data, both independently and within team and interdisciplinary environments.

The degree aspirant works with an advisor from his or her selected track area to develop a formal Plan of Study. The track areas encompass the major research and educational themes within the BIOE degree program; each track has a director and affiliated faculty. The student selects from among track courses offered under the track areas to construct a comprehensive educational and research program that takes (a) advantage of the student’s background, (b) demonstrates academic and research skills, and (c) capitalizes on the strengths of the affiliated faculty.