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Study Abroad

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Explore biomedical engineering from an international context through our summer study abroad programs.
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Expand your perspective, gain global experience, and explore biomedical engineering from an international context through our summer study abroad programs. The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering offers two exciting opportunities for undergraduate students to study and conduct research abroad.

A group photo of students and faculty from the 2024 cohort of the Coulter BME Galway study abroad trip posing in front of the Johnson and Johnson building in Ireland.
Summer Program in Galway, Ireland

Location: University of Galway
Term: Summer | Credits: Yes (BME coursework)

Program Details

Apply via Atlas 

Galway is one of Europe’s leading MedTech hubs, home to eight of the world’s top ten medical device companies, including Medtronic, Boston Scientific, and Abbott. Ireland is the second-largest exporter of medical devices in Europe, producing 80% of the world’s stents and 50% of ventilators.

This program, a collaboration between Georgia Tech and the University of Galway, combines classroom learning with site visits to leading medical device companies. Students gain firsthand insight into R&D and manufacturing practices while living in one of the most vibrant and welcoming cities in Europe.

Highlights
  • Take BME courses taught by Georgia Tech faculty
  • Visit top-tier med-tech companies
  • Experience Irish culture, history, and natural beauty
  • Study in the state-of-the-art Alice Perry Engineering Building
  • Enjoy Galway’s lively arts, music, and sports scenes
Photo of a group of Coulter BME students, male and female, standing in front of a lake in Galway, Ireland with mountains in the background.
Why Galway?

Galway is consistently ranked among the friendliest and most charming cities in the world. With a rich history, a youthful energy, and stunning natural landscapes—from the Aran Islands to the Twelve Bens Mountain range—it’s the perfect place to study and explore.

For more information contact Professor Paul Benkeser. 

Photo of the Dotombori district of Osaka, Japan and its LED billboards lit up at night.
Nakatani RIES Program – Japan

Location: Multiple universities across Japan (e.g., University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, Osaka University)
Term: Summer | Credits: No (Paid research experience) 

Program Details

Apply via Atlas 

The Nakatani Research & International Experience for Students (RIES) is a prestigious undergraduate research exchange program between Georgia Tech and Japan, sponsored by the Nakatani Foundation. Each summer, up to 12 BME students are selected to conduct research in Japanese university labs for 8–10 weeks.

Students are matched with host labs based on their interests and skills, gaining exposure to advanced technologies and research methodologies. In addition to research, the program includes cultural immersion, language learning, and networking with Japanese peers.

Highlights
  • Paid international research experience
  • Work in top-tier Japanese labs
  • Explore cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka
  • Participate in cultural and social activities with Japanese students
  • Build global research and professional connections

Cultural Exchange:
The program also brings Japanese undergraduates to Georgia Tech in August, fostering long-term collaboration and friendship between participants.

Photo of Tokyo, Japan skyline at sunset
Ready To Go Global?

Take the first steps to apply to this unique international research opportunity. For more information, contact Prof. Shuichi (Shu) Takayama, PhD. 

Nakatani Research and International Experiences for Students Fellowship Program (RIES)

The International Plan in Biomedical Engineering

The International Plan (IP) is a rigorous, degree-long academic program designed to cultivate global competence within the context of a student’s major. For Biomedical Engineering (BME) students, this program integrates international studies and experiences with the technical and research-focused curriculum of the Coulter Department.

Students in the IP will work closely with both the Office of International Education and the Coulter BME Academic Office to ensure their coursework and international experiences align with graduation requirements.
 

International Plan