University of Maryland vs. Tufts: Which Is Better for Undergraduate Biomedical Engineering?

Neither program is automatically stronger for every biomedical engineering student, but University of Maryland has an edge for students seeking a larger engineering environment, extensive design resources, and proximity to federal science and health agencies. Tufts can be the more compelling choice for students who want a smaller undergraduate setting, close faculty access, and connections to Boston’s hospital and biotech ecosystem. Both offer ABET-accredited undergraduate biomedical engineering degrees, research opportunities, and senior design experiences.

Maryland’s Fischell Department of Bioengineering sits within the large A. James Clark School of Engineering, which can mean more engineering electives, labs, student project teams, and connections across disciplines such as computer science, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering. Its location near NIH, FDA, NIST, and the Washington-area health and technology community is particularly valuable for students interested in medical devices, imaging, federal research, regulation, or public-sector biomedical work. A student who likes a busy campus, wants many technical options, and is comfortable taking initiative to stand out in a larger program may get more breadth at Maryland.

Tufts tends to suit a student who wants biomedical engineering to feel more personal and integrated with a liberal arts education. The engineering school is smaller, and undergraduates may find it easier to build sustained relationships with professors and enter research groups early. Tufts also benefits from its Boston location, where hospitals, medical research institutions, and biotech companies create strong possibilities for clinically oriented research and internships. Its strengths are especially attractive for students drawn to biomaterials, tissue engineering, biomechanics, or work that stays closely connected to patient care and clinical collaborators.