dgreenheck

I'm interested in going on to a masters program in Biomedical engineering. My main interest is in biomedical instrumentation. I like both electrical design and programming, so finding a program where I could utilize both of those skills would definitely be ideal. Designing things like pacemakers and EEG's, or medical imaging are both fields I would be interested in pursuing. School: University of Wisconsin - Madison Graduation Date: Fall 2012 GPA: 3.35 GRE: Taking in the fall Major: Applied Mathematics, Engineering and Physics (Degree I think only UW offers. Essentially, it's an engineering degree with a lot of math and physics. My engineering focus is EE). Certificate: Computer Science Research Experience: 3 years as lab assistant in a quantum computing lab (Never published. Helped out with building electronics for experiments and programming.) Work Experience: 8 years of systems programming. Currently the project manager, coordinating the transition to our new systems. Not sure if this is relevant when applying to a graduate program... Questions: With my background, GPA, and assuming I do very well on the GRE (my ACT score was 34, I've always done well on standardized tests), what are schools I could realistically get into? I'm under the impression that my GPA isn't good enough to bother applying to top-tier schools. Is this a fair assumption? What are some good online resources for finding schools that are a good match? (I'll be seeing my school advising services soon, but I still would like to do research on my own) So far I've been having a hard time finding quality information. I see US News released their 2013 Graduate School book for $10. Would this be a good buy? Would it be worth searching for a BME-related research position for the fall? I feel that not having any BME research experience is hurting me the most. What aspect of the application does the admissions office put the most weight on? Here's a little more info about the type of school I would like to go to: Big city Tuition cost is not a factor in my search Prefer location in either the midwest or northeast, but would be willing to go elsewhere if necessary. An answer to any of these questions (or any information at all) would be really appreciated! I'm just trying to gather as much information as possible before I make my decisions. Thank you!