Bioengineering/Materials Science and Engineering Joint Major

Bachelor of Science (BS)

The joint major programs are designed for students who wish to undertake study in two areas of engineering in order to qualify for employment in either field or for positions in which competence in two fields is required. These curricula include the core courses in each of the major fields. While they require slightly increased course loads, they can be completed in four years. Both majors are shown on the student's transcript of record.

The Bioengineering/Materials Science and Engineering Joint Major is for students who have a keen interest in the field of biomaterials. Students will study the design and synthesis of novel materials that will define new paradigms in biomaterials from the molecular through macroscopic levels, and will also receive a broad-based learning experience that will include exposure to fundamental courses in engineering and life sciences. This joint major aims to allow the student to understand the interface between the two major fields. Students taking this double major will successfully compete for jobs in the field of biomaterials in the academe, industry, and government.

Admission to the Joint Major

Admission directly to a joint major is closed to freshmen and junior transfer applicants. Students interested in a joint program may apply to change majors during specific times in their academic progress. Please see the College of Engineering joint majors website for complete details.

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Bioengineering

Mission

Learning Goals

1. Describe the fundamental principles and methods of engineering.
2. Understand the physical, chemical, and mathematical basis of biology.
3. Appreciate the different scales of biological systems.
4. Apply the physical sciences and mathematics in an engineering approach to biological systems.
5. Effectively communicate scientific and engineering data and ideas, both orally and in writing.
6. Demonstrate the values of cooperation, teamwork, social responsibility, and lifelong learning necessary for success in the field.
7. Design a bioengineering solution to a problem of technical, scientific. or societal importance.
8. Demonstrate advanced knowledge in a specialized field of bioengineering.

Materials Science

Measured Curricular Outcomes

1. Be able to apply general math, science and engineering skills to the solution of engineering problems.
2. Be aware of the social, safety and environmental consequences of their work, and be able to engage in public debate regarding these issues.
3. Be able to apply core concepts in materials science to solve engineering problems.
4. Be knowledgeable of contemporary issues relevant to materials science and engineering.
5. Be able to select materials for design and construction.
6. Understand the importance of life-long learning.
7. Be able to design and conduct experiments, and to analyze data.
8. Understand the professional and ethical responsibilities of a materials scientist and engineer.
9. Be able to work both independently and as part of a team.
10. Be able to communicate effectively while speaking, employing graphics, and writing.
11. Possess the skills and techniques necessary for modern materials engineering practice.

Educational Objectives for Graduates

Stated succinctly, graduates from the program will have the following skills: 

1. Know the fundamental science and engineering principles relevant to materials.
2. Understand the relationship between nano/microstructure, characterization, properties and processing, and design of materials.
3. Have the experimental and computational skills for a professional career or graduate study in materials.
4. Possess a knowledge of the significance of research, the value of continued learning, and environmental/social issues surrounding materials.
5. Be able to communicate effectively, to work in teams and to assume positions as leaders.

• finish secondary school and
• earn a certificate of completion, which allows admission to a university in their home country or country of graduation

In addition:

Students who have completed the IGCSE or O-level exams have not yet met the requirements for admission at UC Berkeley. The university requires further study, either completion of the two-year A-level program with a minimum of three academic exams, the IB diploma program, or another similar academic curriculum.

Students from countries requiring entry into military service upon completion of secondary education should not submit an application until the obligation has been met. UC Berkeley cannot defer admission to a later term.

Students may have to meet additional admission requirements and follow certain guidelines for filling out the undergraduate application, depending on country or educational system.

Apply to Berkeley by filling out the UC application. You can begin working on the application as early as August 1, and must submit the application November 1-30. You can apply to as many UC campuses as you like with one application, and each campus will receive your application and official test scores. If you have difficulties, contact the UC Application Center at [email protected] or (800) 207-1710.