phd university florida

Program in Biomedical Engineering

Dramatic advances in health care and medical technology made possible by the merger of engineering and medicine have prompted the development of new graduate degree programs in biomedical engineering at many of the top institutions in the United States. Currently, biomedical engineering is the most rapidly growing graduate engineering discipline in the U.S with expectations of more labor force growth than any other engineering discipline over the next ten years. The overall goal of this program is to implement education and research in biomedical engineering that will prepare graduates for industrial, governmental, and academic careers in clinical research, bioengineering, biotechnology, and related professions. Biomedical engineers analyze and design solutions to problems in medicine and biology, with the goal of improving the quality and effectiveness of patient care.

The graduate program in biomedical engineering (BME) provides special emphasis in cellular and tissue engineering, biomaterials and bioimaging. Advanced engineering, medicine, chemistry, physics, and biology students will gain the necessary knowledge and skills to allow them to contribute to improved technology in health and medical care, and to solve real-world engineering problems in biology and medicine, both in research and industrial settings.

Admission Requirements

• Fulfillment of the department’s admission and core course requirements for the chemical engineering master’s degree or its substantive equivalent (see Biomedical Engineering, MS   );
• Maintenance of a high scholastic record for graduate coursework at the previous college or university attended; and
• Demonstrated proficiency in conducting research in chemical engineering by passing the departmental PhD Qualifying Examination (see PhD Qualifying Examination requirements    and on the departmental web site for more details).

Students who meet the admission requirements are encouraged to apply directly for the PhD program. Students who maintain a 3.0 graduate GPA and demonstrate proficiency in conducting research in biomedical engineering by passing the departmental PhD Qualifying Examination (see PhD Qualifying Examination requirements    and on the departmental web site for more details) are admitted to PhD candidacy if they have satisfied the departmental core course requirements for the master’s degree. Students who fulfill these requirements may elect, upon approval of the Graduate Committee and major supervisor, to proceed directly toward the PhD without first obtaining a thesis based master’s degree.

Students with a thesis-type master’s degree in chemical or biomedical engineering from the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering may, with approval of the Graduate Committee and major professor, take nine additional approved semester hours beyond the thesis-type master’s course requirements to satisfy the thirty-three hour course requirement for the PhD. All other requirements must be fulfilled as stated below.

Students with master’s degrees from other institutions will be given a specific course plan by the departmental Graduate Committee and have the option of transferring up to six hours towards their PhD requirements.

Degree Requirements

Each semester, all graduate students are required to enroll in and attend the departmental seminar, BME 5935 Biomedical Engineering Seminar (0)    (S/U grade only). In addition, all students are required to take required safety training courses and annual refreshers. All graduate students are required to attend the Program for Instructional Excellence (PIE) Workshop to prepare for teaching assistant (TA) duties. This requirement is mandatory regardless of the student’s classification as a teaching assistant or research assistant. For international graduate students, the SPEAK (Speaking Proficiency English Assessment Kit) is a test for evaluating the English speaking ability of non-native speakers of English. The SPEAK test is administered by the Center for Intensive English Studies to international students who have been appointed or will be appointed as teaching assistants in an academic department. The SPEAK exam requirement must be cleared (scores greater than 45 or 50 for graders or TAs, respectively) before students can serve as teaching assistants or progress to full PhD candidate status.

Fifty-seven semester hours and the following requirements must be completed successfully for the award of the PhD degree in Biomedical Engineering, as follows:

• Passage of BME 8965 Doctoral Qualifying Exam (0)    within two consecutive exam attempts (see PhD Qualifying Examination requirements    for more details). Successful completion will permit the student to continue work towards PhD candidacy;
• Completion of a minimum of thirty-three semester hours of advanced coursework (including twelve semester hours of core coursework);
• Completion of at least twenty-four semester hours of dissertation research, BME 6980 Dissertation (1-24)    (S/U grade only);
• Registration and attendance at all departmental seminars, BME 5935 Biomedical Engineering Seminar (0)    (S/U grade only);
• Selection of a research topic and major professor(s);
• Formation of a supervisory committee in consultation with the major professor(s);
• Submission and defense of a prospectus on the dissertation topic to the supervisory committee. Successful completion will result in formal admission to candidacy for the PhD degree;
• One semester teaching assistantship in an undergraduate laboratory;
• Presentation of a research topic at one local, regional, national, or international professional meeting;
• Submission or publication of at least one scholarly article based on original dissertation research in peer-reviewed journals;
• Satisfaction of the University residency requirement; and
• Successful passage of BME 8985 Dissertation Defense (0)    (P/F grade only).

No course with a grade below “C” will be counted toward fulfillment of degree requirements. No more than one course with a grade in the “C” range will be counted toward fulfillment of degree requirements.

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Home / News / University News / Celebrating FSU’s summer graduates: Stories of achievement and future aspirations

Celebrating FSU’s summer graduates: Stories of achievement and future aspirations

Florida State University will award more than 2,800 degrees during summer commencement Aug. 2. Graduates have worked hard to reach this milestone, and all have unique stories about their time at FSU. From research to community involvement, their experiences have shaped who they are and prepared them for what’s next. Florida State University News spoke with a handful of graduates about their journeys and what the future holds for them.

Will Myers of Orlando is graduating from Florida State University’s MBA program specializing in real estate after earning an undergraduate degree from FSU last year.

Walking in this semester’s commencement ceremony holds special significance for Myers. He says he is proud to follow in his father’s footsteps by earning an MBA immediately after completing his undergraduate degree. This achievement is particularly meaningful as his father passed away earlier this year.

“It feels great to be graduating with a master’s degree within four years,” he said. “It is one of the benefits of combined pathways and going to high school in Florida. The foundation I have received from FSU is stronger than I could’ve ever imagined, and I’m excited to use my knowledge in the real world.”

One of Myers’ proudest accomplishments at FSU was his work as the lead fund manager at the FSU Real Estate Investment Fund. Setting up the fund was a learning experience for him in preparing the next management team for the future. Developing relationships with fellow students and staff was a highlight of his time at FSU.

“FSU has provided a ton for me,” Myers said. “Whether it was academically or socially, I have FSU to thank for many of the consistent components in my life.” After graduation, Myers will work at Truist Securities as an investment banking analyst in Miami.

Coretta Doss

After a distinguished career in the U.S. Military Academy , Coretta Doss is graduating with a doctorate in Reading and Language Arts from Florida State University’s College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences .

Doss, a native of Brooksville, Mississippi, chose FSU for its renowned reading research program, which aligned with her extensive background and passion for education, especially in reading. As an R2D2 OSEP Fellow at the Florida Center for Reading Research (FCRR), her research concentrated on enhancing teacher professional development, supporting struggling readers and implementing evidence-based practices in K-12 education.

“The opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree focused on reading research with FCRR faculty felt like a tailor-made fit for me,” Doss said. “Overcoming my fears, I decided to pursue this unique opportunity.”

Doss cherishes the collaborative and supportive environment at FSU, particularly the strong bonds she has formed.

“I will miss the camaraderie with members of my cohort,” she said “It reminds me of my time in the military, where we bonded with fellow soldiers as we trained for a common cause. I have been fortunate to find that same sense of unity with different individuals in our program.”

Doss strives to advance the science of reading through research and translate that research for pre-service and in-service teachers after graduation.

“I aim to develop validated instruments that provide insights leading to tailored professional learning opportunities for teachers, ultimately improving the learning and achievement of all students,” she said.

Taylor Caswell

Tallahassee resident Taylor Caswell achieved her lifelong dream of attaining a bachelor’s degree from the College of Nursing this semester.

Caswell said FSU was the perfect choice for her academic and professional journey.

“My proudest accomplishment at FSU is carrying on the alumni tradition in my family, which has deepened my connection to the university and its community,” Caswell said. “I will miss the supportive environment, the sense of belonging, and the chance to connect with so many incredible people who have enriched my journey.”

Caswell served as a student nurse ambassador for the College of Nursing, a role in which she supported and guided her peers.

“Serving as a student nurse ambassador for the College of Nursing has been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to enhance my networking and communication skills while supporting incoming groups,” she said.

After graduation, Caswell will begin working at the Trauma Burn ICU at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Medical.

“I aspire to work in high-pressure environments like the Trauma Burn ICU at UAB Medical, where I can utilize my skills to provide exceptional care to those in critical need,” Caswell said. “By combining my clinical expertise with a deep commitment to empathy and holistic care, I hope to make a lasting difference in the lives of my patients and the nursing profession.”

Jaylan Gainey

Jaylan Gainey, a former student-athlete on the FSU Men’s Basketball team, is graduating from the Sport Management master’s program .

Gainey, from Greensboro, North Carolina, chose FSU because of the family-like atmosphere he experienced when he arrived on campus. The welcoming nature of everyone, even those not associated with basketball, made him feel at home.

“I love the family atmosphere that FSU brings, from the students to the staff; it’s always very warm and welcoming. Everyone wants everyone to succeed here,” Gainey said.

For Gainey, walking in this semester’s commencement ceremony symbolizes the end of a long journey filled with challenges and hard work. He previously earned his bachelor’s degree from Brown University in business economics and a graduate certificate in athletic coaching from FSU.

Gainey faced numerous physical and mental challenges during his collegiate career, including three knee surgeries in the past two years. His determination to graduate and finish his collegiate basketball career amid these obstacles stands out as his greatest achievement.

“I want to find ways to give back to the game of basketball because it has opened up so many opportunities in my life,” Gainey said.

While exploring various career paths, Gainey aspires to play professional basketball after graduation.

Humberto Messeguer

Orlando native Humberto Messeguer’s passion for technology and helping others led him to pursue a master’s in information technology from the School of Information (iSchool).

“No matter where I go or what I do, it’s to bring others together to be able to accomplish great things,” he said. “I’ve grown so much as a person and professional while obtaining this degree and have been able to develop my skills, take care of others and, most importantly, make an impact within the FSU family.”

During his time at FSU, Messeguer engaged in projects that allowed him to apply his technical knowledge to real-world problems. He participated in collaborative initiatives, working alongside peers and faculty to develop innovative solutions that addressed community needs.

After graduation, Messeguer hopes to pursue a career in IT security. He is particularly interested in protecting sensitive information and ensuring the integrity of digital systems.

“Being able to make a positive impact in the lives of others is one of my proudest accomplishments and will be something I continue doing after graduation,” he said.

Messeguer’s commitment to making a difference extends beyond his professional aspirations. He plans to remain actively involved in community service and outreach efforts, using his skills to benefit those around him.

• The Education Gradebook

3 Florida universities prepare for new presidents

• Jeffrey S. Solochek Times staff

The big story: Some familiar faces are taking over high profile higher education jobs in Florida.

University of Florida trustees turned to the trusted hand of former president Kent Fuchs to lead the school after the surprising resignation of Ben Sasse. Fuchs retired in 2022, and will run the show while a search ensues for a permanent president. Read more here .

Florida A&M University asked an alumnus with plenty of leadership experience to helm the HBCU after the departure of Larry Robinson, who resigned amid a scandal over a multimillion-dollar donation of dubious value. Former Pasco-Hernando State College president Tim Beard is set to take over the school on Aug. 5 on an interim basis.

Beard would not be eligible for the full time job. Read more here .

Florida Atlantic University meanwhile is continuing with its president search, after having it called off amid questions of possible Sunshine Law violations. The committee is set to reintroduce its process to the public this week. Read more from Florida Phoenix .

More in higher ed

New College: A state audit revealed several negative findings , including violations of statute, in a review of New College finances in 2022.

College closure: Students at the private for-profit City College, which had two Florida campuses, are demanding answers about their future after the school abruptly closed down, WFTV reports.

Aesthetics matter: Two Florida universities rank in the top 10 nationally on Immerse Education’s most picturesque campus listing , the Palm Beach Post reports.

K-12 hot topics

Tax referendums: The Hillsborough County School Board decided to sue the County Commission over its refusal to place the board’s property tax referendum on the November ballot. • A Lee County charter school group is suing the school district for a share of the district’s 2018 sales tax referendum revenue, WINK reports.

School board elections: A candidate for Pinellas County school board has been telling voters the school district keeps pornographic material in school libraries. Her prime example is a title the district removed three years ago . • A Leon County school board race is getting ugly amid political attack ads , the Tallahassee Democrat reports.

Safety: The city of Leesburg has agreed to place cameras in school zones to catch and fine speeders, WKMG reports.

Employee discipline: The Broward County school board delayed action on a recommendation to fire an employee who allowed her transgender child to participate on a high school girls volleyball team. The board appeared unlikely to approve the action , Associated Press reports.

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District leadership: The Okeechobee County school board has named its interim superintendent to become the permanent superintendent , WPEC reports.

Choice: A change in Florida law regarding private school zoning could lead to the growth of microschools , Politico Florida reports.

Cellphones: Hillsborough County students face new restrictions on cellphone use during the school day, as the school board unanimously approved rules requiring phone be off and out of sight during classes. • The Broward County school board also adopted new student cellphone rules , WFOR reports.

Book bans: The author of “Ban This Book” is mounting an effort urging the Indian River County school district to return his book to its shelves after removing it in May, CNN reports. Several other authors are supporting the push. • The Nassau County school district is arguing in court that it has a First Amendment right to restrict and remove library books , the USA Today Florida Network reports. It’s a controversial stance that Gov. Ron DeSantis’s administration also has invoked. • A federal judge ruled a 7-year-old must testify in a lawsuit challenging the Escambia County school district’s right to remove library books, the USA Today Florida Network reports.

From the court docket ... A family is suing a Leon County charter school, contending it allowed for racial discrimination , the Tallahassee Democrat reports.

Don’t miss a story. Here’s a link to yesterday’s roundup .

Before you go ... Enjoy a moment from jazz history.

Jeffrey S. Solochek is an education reporter covering K-12 education policy and schools. Reach him at [email protected].

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Republicans think Kamala Harris will be easy to beat. They’re wrong

President Joe Biden scrambled up an otherwise ordinary Sunday afternoon with the shock announcement he was ending his reelection campaign . He dropped the announcement on X , formerly known as Twitter, after weeks of turmoil for the Democratic Party over his poor debate performance in June. 

He then immediately endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris to head the Democratic Party ticket.

Her name has been in the mix for weeks as a possible replacement for Biden, but many people still have this question: Can she win? 

My answer: Absolutely. 

To be clear, there are no easy roads to the White House. Polls show Harris doing slightly worse than Biden on many head-to-head polls against Donald Trump, who secured the Republican Party nomination at its convention last week. Other polls show her doing slightly better. 

More: Here’s what North Carolina needs to know ahead of the November election

But Harris brings many advantages to the table, some of which have flown under the radar due in part to the invisibility of the vice president’s job and a too-often incurious political media. 

Here are a few.

Harris will boost the Black vote

Harris’ assignment for the Biden-Harris campaign has been to rally Black voters, and she has been effective in doing so. No other Democrat who would replace Biden would be able to deliver the Black votes she can, and it has become political canon that any Democratic presidential candidate needs Black voters to win — not to mention most of the down-ticket candidates, too.

More: What is Project 2025? Is it Trump's plan? What to know about the political right's plan for a conservative nation

Many people overlook that Harris' deep ties to the Black community are more than skin-deep. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., an influential organization of professional Black women for which organizing and advocating in their local communities is second nature. Harris spoke at the recent AKA convention in Houston, which drew 20,000 people.

Just days prior, the vice president was in New Orleans to speak at the Essence Festival, another massive event that is not known as well by the mainstream, but is super-known in every corner of the Black community. 

Harris graduated with a bachelor's degree from Howard University, a historically Black university, and she would be the first graduate of an HBCU to hold the highest office in the land. (She obtained her law degree from UC Law in San Francisco.)

Believe me: The Howard connection will motivate millions of HBCU grads who have for generations relished in proving that their degrees are as good as ones from predominantly white institutions.

Harris is well-suited to leverage abortion rights anger

Fighting for reproductive rights has also been a big part of Harris’ campaign portfolio. Democratic politicians nationwide believe they have the upper hand on the issue after the far-right U.S. Supreme Court ended federal protections for abortion when it overturned Roe v. Wade in June 2022.

Political analysts believe post-Roe politics have fueled disappointing performances for the Republicans the last three election cycles, and citizen-led referenda protecting those rights have passed in even ruby-red states. Trump himself clearly thinks the issue is a loser, having unceremoniously dropped GOP calls for a federal abortion ban from the party platform, where it had remained for 40 years. 

It seems needless to say that having a woman — who could also become the first woman president — press this particular issue forward will be a plus for the Democratic ticket. 

Kamala and Gen Z

I think the most underrated aspect of Harris’ appeal is that Gen Z likes her. In fact, indicators suggest she is stronger with Gen Z than Biden.

Gen-Z for Change — formerly TikTok for Biden — was one of the first major political organizations to endorse Harris on Sunday afternoon and said it would be “dedicated to mobilizing young voters" in her support.

Why does this matter? Consider three important things to know about Gen Z when it comes to politics. 

First, Gen Z voters cast ballots at a heavier rate than previous generations of young voters who are historically notorious for not turning out; second, they lean toward the progressive side of the aisle, all available data shows; and third, their youngest members are 18, which is to say this is the first election that the entire generation can vote.

Harris is an accomplished former prosecutor. Trump has issues with the law

Harris dropped in for a rally in my city of Fayetteville on Thursday , just days before Biden’s announcement. I covered her speech and, of course, I was looking to see how she might carry herself if she found herself atop the ticket. Buzz was already thick by then that she was going to be the one.

I saw nothing to disabuse myself of the notion she can win. She was sharp, measured and concise and knew how to “move the crowd,” as the rapper Rakim once said. She took shots at J.D. Vance, the GOP vice presidential nominee who had just been introduced the previous night at the Republican National Convention. She said Vance, an Ohio senator, had an inspiring personal story but accused him of concealing Republican plans (schemes) for America, which include Project 2025, the Heritage Foundation’s far-right vision to reshape the country, cut social programs and further restrict abortion rights.

“We are not buying it,” she told the pumped-up crowd in the gymnasium at Westover High School (which incidentally is my alma mater). “As you know, I am a former prosecutor, so let’s look at the facts, shall we?”

The line drew cheers and likely previews an area of attack Harris will no doubt make against Trump: The prosecutor going after a man convicted of 34 felony counts. 

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper spoke at the Harris rally, and both he and the vice president mentioned that they had known each other for many years, dating back to when both were attorney general of their states (Harris in California). Cooper is on the short-list for vice presidential nominees for Harris, political experts believe — raising the prospect that TWO prosecutors will make the case against Trump.

Republicans seem happy for now

Many Republicans have been ebullient over Harris’ potential to head the ticket, and some have been calling for Biden to resign immediately, which would make her president immediately. They think she will be easy to beat, but they might want to think again. 

By 9 p.m. Sunday, Democratic fundraiser ActBlue reported that grassroots supporters had raised $46.7 million, which it called the “biggest fundraising day of the 2024 cycle.”

There are no easy roads to the White House. 

Opinion Editor Myron B. Pitts can be reached at [email protected] or 910-486-3559.