Postgraduate study in Medical Devices and Technologies

The Master of Engineering Studies - Medical Devices and Technologies specialisation is now a standalone masters programme. Please see the Master of Medical Engineering page for more information.

A Master of Engineering Studies in Medical Devices and Technologies complements your background in engineering, medicine or science with knowledge in medical devices technology and practice. The courses we offer are lecture-based, delivered as modules. They are taught by specialists throughout the University, as well as guests working in relevant organisations. This ensures that we meet the needs of students from both industry and academic backgrounds.

We cover topics such as:

• Aspects of medical device design
• Future needs in the medical industry, as identified by the World Health Organization
• Clinical assessments of medical devices
• Implementation of regulations surrounding device design
• Risks, quality control and ethical issues in industry and throughout the development process

• Before applying for this programme, please ensure that you meet the entry requirements for the Master of Engineering Studies.
• You may also qualify for this programme if you have completed appropriate health professional qualifications that lead to registration as a clinician. This generally includes the completion of an approved bachelors degree, along with three years of relevant professional experience.
• An alternative pathway into this programme is open to applicants with appropriate backgrounds and professional experience, including those with a  Bachelor of Technology or a Bachelor of Science.

Important requirements for international students

• All international applicants should ensure that they meet all the programme’s entry requirements. You should only proceed with your application if your GPA matches or exceeds the requirements for your country listed in the engineering programme of your choice. Please do not apply if your GPA is below the minimum entry requirements, but consider the alternative study options that may be offered as a pathway into your preferred programme.
• You are strongly advised to consider visa application times. Please be aware of the student visa processing times in your home economy and submit the documentation needed well ahead of the Faculty of Engineering's programme application deadlines. For processing times, contact the New Zealand High Commission/Embassy or your education agent.
• If you are applying for your second masters degree, you need to be aware that additional assessment requirements will take extra time. The Faculty of Engineering is required to assess your previous masters degree courses to ensure that they do not overlap with your selected courses in the University of Auckland programme that you have expressed interest in. You must therefore allow more time for your application to be processed, and be aware that further documentations may be required. Submit your application well in advance of the deadline if this is your situation, as you may also need to take into account visa application times.

The MEngSt in Medical Devices and Technologies generally takes two semesters to complete; part-time enrolments are possible. Two options are available: a research or a taught masters, both involve two core courses that provide overviews on technological practices related to medical devices. The taught option in particular offers a variety of electives, so that you can address your areas of interest.

Depending on your chosen option, you’ll complete either a 90-point research portfolio that includes a written thesis, or a smaller, 60-point dissertation with a written project report.

In both cases, research is a significant component of this programme: working with a related group, or a secondment within industry, for a supervised project that specialises in a particular aspect of medical device technology. If you don’t have a medical background, we may recommend a clinical secondment to strengthen the experiential component of your learning.

Research (120 points)
Compulsory:

• Semesters One and Two: ENGGEN 793 A&B Medical Devices Research Portfolio (90 points)
• Semester One: ENGGEN 770 Medical Devices Technology (15 points)
• Semester Two: ENGGEN 771 Medical Devices Practice (15 points)

Taught (120 points)
Compulsory:

• Semesters One and Two: ENGGEN 791 A&B Medical Devices Research Project (60 points)
• Semester One: ENGGEN 770 Medical Devices Technology (15 points)
• Semester Two: ENGGEN 771 Medical Devices Practice (15 points)

Electives (choose two from the following list):
Semester One

• CIVIL 703 Project Management (15 points)
• MECHENG 752 Technology Management (15 points)
• MEDSCI 703 Advanced Biomedical Imaging (15 points)
• PHYSICS 780 Advanced Imaging Technologies (15 points)

Semester Two

• CIVIL 703 Project Management (15 points)
  
• ENGGEN 705 Engineering Product Development (15 points)
• MECHENG 728 Advanced MEMS and Microsystems (15 points)
• MECHENG 730 Advanced Biomechatronic Systems (15 points)

For general student enquiries, please contact the Student Hubs.

If you would like further academic information, you can contact a Postgraduate Adviser.