What Are the Different Types of Biomedical Engineering Degrees?

Biomedical engineers apply concepts from fields such as mechanical, electrical, computer, and materials engineering to medical disciplines. They study the human body and use their engineering knowledge to help doctors and scientists create solutions for many health problems. Biomedical engineering degrees can lead to careers in research, industry, or hospitals. There are several different sub-disciplines of biomedical engineering, from which a student can choose.

The usual first step for anyone who wants to become a biomedical engineer is to obtain a bachelor of science (B.S.) degree in the subject. At some universities, a bachelor of engineering (B.E.) or bachelor of science in engineering (B.S.E.) is the equivalent degree. A subsequent master of science (M.S.) or master of engineering (M.E.) degree can provide more career opportunities, especially for people who intend to specialize in a very specific area. Someone wishing to pursue a research career in biomedical engineering will generally need to obtain a doctor of philosophy (PhD) degree in the discipline. Many biomedical engineers also obtain a doctor of medicine (M.D.) degree, which enables them to provide patient care or perform clinical research.

Most people who pursue biomedical engineering degrees choose a specialty area, though they obtain a basic understanding of other areas as well. There are several common sub-disciplines in biomedical engineering, which can be roughly divided into disciplines involving medical instrumentation or computer modeling, and those that work more directly with the human body. These fields overlap the most in the areas of orthopedic bioengineering and rehabilitation engineering, both of which involve the creation of artificial biomaterials such as bones, ligaments, and tendons, and the design of prosthetics and assistive technology.

Instrumentation and modeling biomedical engineering degrees include bioinstrumentation. This is the design of devices and computers for diagnosing and treating disease. Clinical engineers usually work in hospitals to ensure that instrumentation and computer records meet the hospital's needs.
Computational modeling, which is a large part of the field of systems physiology, uses computers to process experimental data and construct mathematical models of physiological responses. It can even construct simulations of human organs, which can be used to test new treatments. Bioinformatics and computational biology are used to learn more about genomes, proteins, and other cell components. This is a process that requires enormous amounts of information, and is made much easier and more efficient through the use of computer programs.

Biomedical engineering degrees may focus on almost any part of the human body. Some specializations include cardiovascular systems, tissue engineering, and biomechanics — which focuses on movement in the human body. Molecular, cell, and genetic engineers focus on the microscopic level and are also active in the field of nanotechnology.

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How Do I Become a Biomedical Engineer?

For those interested in biological science and engineering, the decision to become a biomedical engineer is a great one. A biomedical engineer develops concepts and takes the ideas of doctors, biologists, and rehabilitation therapists and converts them into devices, materials, treatments, instruments, procedures, and techniques that are usable and helpful to patients and the medical community. Biomedical engineering can include a wide range of engineering backgrounds – electrical, clinical, mechanical, chemical, aerospace, agricultural, and civil engineering – as they are related to improving the health care industry

There are several different levels of education for someone who wants to become a biomedical engineer. A bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering is one possibility. There are many programs that are accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. A bachelor’s degree is considered an entry level degree for those who decide to become a biomedical engineer. Consequently, a master’s or a doctorate level program is highly recommended.

Despite where a person receives her bachelor’s degree, there are several courses that are common and expected for a person wanting to become a biomedical engineer. For example, most four-year colleges with biomedical engineering programs offer classes in biomedical engineering design and systems, biomedical computers and software, engineering biophysics, biomechanics, biotransport, biothermodynamics, and bioinstrumentation. Depending on whether there is a dedicated bioengineering program at the undergraduate level, there may be more or fewer classes geared toward the degree.
If someone wants to become a biomedical engineer and work in a university setting as an instructor, she must have a doctorate degree. In addition, the most highly sought after positions in industry laboratories and government laboratories also require a doctorate degree, in most cases. A person does not have to complete an undergraduate program in biomedical engineering in order to enter a biomedical engineering graduate program. In fact, many people receive a traditional engineering background in undergraduate school before they delve into the specialized field of bioengineering in graduate school. Unbelievably, there are more graduate programs in biomedical engineering than undergraduate programs.

There are a few factors to consider before the decision to become a biomedical engineer is finalized. For example, mathematics, science, analytical thinking, logic, and inventiveness, must come naturally. Personal qualities, such as patience and determination, are also valuable in this field of work. The ability to communicate clearly and effectively is also important – as filling out reports and discussing projects are all part of the job. Lastly, someone who wants to become a biomedical engineer should be able to work well with others – most projects are a team effort.

For the right person, becoming a biomedical engineer can be the ideal career path. Science, math, and creativity are all combined with the common goal of saving the lives of people around the world. It is not a field for those who shy away from formal education; however, for those up for the challenge, it can be a wonderful option. 

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