What Education Do I Need for a Career in Biomedical Engineering?
Biomedical engineering is a combination of engineering methods and medical or biological research. Because of the nature of the field, a minimum of a bachelor's degree is required for individuals working in biomedical engineering, although graduate degrees are also available for those seeking to specialize or advance in their careers. Read on to learn more about these education options.
Education Overview
<p>Careers are available in biomedical engineering for college graduates who hold a bachelor's degree, but research or supervisory positions may require a master's or a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree. In addition to college education, each state has its own licensure requirements that must be met before a biomedical engineer can work directly with the public.
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<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutBiomedicalEngineering">Important Facts About Biomedical Engineering</h3>
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<table border="1"><tr><td> Degrees </td><td> Bachelor's, Master's and Ph.D.</td></tr>
<tr><td> Entry Level Education </td><td> Bachelor's degree</td></tr>
<tr><td> Licensing </td><td> Professional Engineer (PE) licensing requires a four-year college degree, work experience, two competency exams and licensure from their state</td></tr>
<tr><td> Similar Careers </td><td> Biochemist, Physician, Chemical Engineer, Surgeon</td></tr>
<tr><td> Median Salary (2021) </td><td> $97,410</td></tr>
<tr><td> Job Outlook (2021-2031) </td><td> 10% (faster than average)</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
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<h3 id="section---BiomedicalEngineeringDegrees">Biomedical Engineering Degrees</h3>
<ul><li><b>Baccalaureate Degree:</b> It takes most students four years to complete the coursework for a bachelor's degree. While undergraduate biomedical engineering programs may serve as prerequisites to entry into a postgraduate program, some entry-level jobs are available to those who have a bachelor's degree.
</li><li><b>Master's Degree:</b> Holding a Master of Science degree in Biomedical Engineering qualifies job candidates for a number of research and supervisory positions. Since many undergraduate programs cover the engineering aspects of the field, graduate programs tend to focus more on research and practical applications of biological and medical principles in biomedical engineering. Typical master's degree programs take one to two years to complete.
</li><li><b>Doctorate Degree:</b> A Ph.D. program typically aims to prepare students for advanced research particular specialized areas of biomedical engineering. Students can specialize in areas such as molecular biology or cell and tissue engineering. A doctorate can take between up to four years to obtain. Job candidates with a Ph.D. are often very well-qualified for positions in teaching or research for private or government organizations</li></ul>