Biomedical engineering is a specific type of engineering that as it is combined with and applied to the biological and medical sciences. The results of this field may be best known through innovations in implantable medical devices like artificial hips, pacemakers and 3-D prosthetic organ printing. Biomedical engineers greatly influence technological medical advances today. Keep reading to learn more about this field and the impact it has on people’s lives.
About Biomedical Engineering
This type of engineering is unique in that it relies on the engineer’s expert knowledge about biological sciences in the development of medical designs and advancements. Information from other specialties is also applied in biomedical-related engineering. Various forms of engineering come into play, including chemical, electrical and mechanical. In addition, mathematics, materials science, computer science and chemistry are also incorporated into this exciting field. This large amount of expertise is necessary for such biomedical engineering feats as the development of prostheses, identification of microorganisms, engineering of stem cells and design of various medical devices.
What Biomedical Engineers Do
Biomedical engineers must be highly knowledgeable, as noted above, in a variety of science and mathematical pursuits. They work across a vast array of disciplines, and they could be employed in any number of settings. Along with working to develop and design new medical technologies, biomedical engineers can also focus on research or provide safety standard testing and other such pursuits for government agencies. They may work in tech startups or even engage in entrepreneurial efforts of their own. The possibilities are quite broad. This field is growing exponentially and quickly. There are tons of possibilities for working within the industry, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Education Requirements
Biomedical engineering requires extensive knowledge among a variety of subjects. This is particularly important with regard to the specialty or concentration one chooses to study. In general, the educational requirements of a biomedical engineer start with a foundation in a broad range of engineering types. Other topics in the curriculum will depend upon the area of expertise that is chosen. Some examples include organic chemistry, biomechanics, physiology or computer science. Because this entire industry is constantly evolving with new technologies and advancements, it’s important that biomedical engineering professionals commit to the completion of continuing education credits on a regular basis in order to maintain their current level of skills and to stay up-to-date with emerging practices. Because these jobs are so technical most require an advanced degree, such as a master’s or doctorate in the field.
Related Resource: Top 10 Best Colleges for a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Informatics
Biomedical engineers of all types are in-demand, and the industry is growing quite rapidly. Aging populations are in need of medical devices, implants, and other healthcare-related innovations. Those with advanced knowledge of the types of specialized skills for these jobs will likely be able to find a job within their specialty interest. Biomedical engineering is a vast field with a broad range of specializations; therefore, employment opportunities are likely to be readily available for those professionals who are committed to gaining new skills and honing their current ones.
Related:
25 Best Health Science Bachelor’s Programs