Biomedical Engineering Schools & Training Programs
Biomedical Engineering applies engineering principles to the development and application of solutions in the fields of medicine and biology. Many significant developments in the evolution of clinical diagnosis and therapy have only been possible through Biomedical Engineering, and it plays an increasingly important role in modern medicine.
Biomedical Engineering Products
Biomedical Engineering is involved in numerous products and technologies. Here are just a few examples -
- Artificial organs, such as hearts, blood vessels, and prosthetic limbs.
- Laser eye surgery
- Medical imaging systems, such as computer assisted tomography (CAT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound.
- Automated monitoring systems for patients (and for people in high-stress environments, such as astronauts)
- Computer-based diagnostic systems, including the use of Artificial Intelligence
- Design of biomaterials
What background is useful for Biomedical Engineering?
Your high school studies should include plenty of science and math courses. Life science studies will also be useful. You should be able to communicate clearly, as Biomedical Engineering will require interaction with people from differing medical and technical disciplines.
Many Biomedical Engineers combine a solid background in, say, mechanical engineering, with a specialized Biomedical Engineering education. Educational requirements are high, and Biomedical Engineers often require a post-graduate degree to obtain their first job.
Biomedical Engineering Job Outlook
The outlook for jobs in Biomedical Engineering is very promising. The combination of an aging population, the demand for more sophisticated medical equipment and treatments, and the need to develop cost-effective treatment techniques, will fuel the strong growth of Biomedical Engineering jobs well into the future. Competition for jobs in Biomedical Engineering is also likely to be strong, so a good Biomedical Engineering education is vital to enable you to compete.