Biomechanics is the application of mechanics to biological systems. The program equips students to apply the tools of engineering analysis to biological systems from the cellular to the whole body level, with career objectives in academia, health care, and sports science. Secondary interests include mechanical assessment of persons with neurological diagnoses, with a goal of evaluating the efficacy of clinical interventions. Graduate training in Biomechanics equips students to apply the tools of engineering analysis to biological systems from the cellular to the whole body level, with career objectives in academia, health care, and sports science. Elective course work within the program allows students to pursue individual interests such as physiological adaptations to mechanical stimuli, or computer modeling.
Students generally have the opportunity to teach during their training.
The M.S. degree is designed to provide the necessary foundation for participation in biomechanical research. Course work in biomechanics, statistics, research methods, and motor control form the basis of the formal training, with students also expected to complete a research project summarized in a thesis. Graduates of the program generally pursue further graduate training toward a Ph.D. or careers in industrial or biomedical research. The wide range of biology and mechanics courses offered at the UW-Madison allows the student to tailor a curriculum which fits their individual interests. Students conduct independent research throughout their training which will be summarized in their dissertation.