How To Become A Biomedical Engineer

Step 1: Study Science and Math in High School

High school students interested in careers as Biomedical Engineers should study chemistry, biology, and physics. Biomedical Engineers also require strong math skills, requiring students to take algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus.

When possible, students should try to take advanced placement (AP) math or science classes. Taking classes in mechanical drawing, drafting, and computer programming can also help students develop the skills needed for this career.

Step 2: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

A Bachelor’s degree is often the minimum educational requirement for Biomedical Engineers. The most common majors for this career include Biomedical Engineering and Bioengineering. Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, and Engineering degrees are less common but still suitable for most Biomedical Engineer jobs. Students who do not obtain a Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Engineering or Bioengineering should consider majoring in one of these two fields of study when obtaining a Master’s degree.

Biomedical Engineering, Bioengineering, and other Engineering degrees should come from accredited programs. The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) has accredited programs at over 812 colleges and universities, providing a wide selection of schools.

Bachelor’s programs for Biomedical Engineering and Bioengineering often include a combination of Engineering and Biological Science courses. Students may take courses in Computer Programming, Circuit Design, Biomaterials, and Solid Mechanics.

Step 3: Earn a Master’s Degree

Earning a Master’s degree can lead to greater job prospects for Biomedical Engineers, including the opportunity for job advancement and senior positions. A Master’s degree is often needed for leading a research team.

The most common Master’s degree is a Master of Science (MS) in Biomedical Engineering. Most programs take two years to complete and may include a thesis track and a non-thesis track. The non-thesis track often includes a final project while the thesis requires an original research project. As with selecting a school for a Bachelor’s degree, students should choose an accredited Master’s program.

When studying for a Master’s degree, students may choose a concentration within the Biomedical Engineering field. Common concentrations include Biomaterials, Biotechnology, Health Data Science, Immune Engineering, and Bioinstrumentation.

Step 4: Look for Internship Opportunities

Many Biomedical Engineering and Bioengineering programs provide students with internship opportunities. The internship may involve work at a laboratory, an engineering firm, a hospital, or a pharmaceutical company.

The internships may last one or two semesters and may count toward some of the college credits, depending on the program. Students should use internships to gain hands-on training while also networking with experienced Biomedical Engineers. Internships may lead to a permanent position after college if the intern meets expectations.

Step 5: Apply for Entry-Level Jobs in Your Field

After college, aspiring Biomedical Engineers should begin looking for entry-level work at laboratories, colleges, or research facilities. The job titles vary between companies, but some of the positions to look for include Assistant Biomedical Engineer, Entry-Level Biomedical Engineer, and Biomed Trainee.

Individuals who struggle to find entry-level work as a Biomedical Engineer may need to look for Biomedical Technician jobs. Technician jobs focus on maintaining the equipment used by Biomedical Engineers and typically require less experience.

Step 6: Become a Licensed Engineer

While not required, some Biomedical Engineers choose to become licensed Engineers. Licensing is handled through the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).

The first step in becoming a licensed Engineer involves passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. To qualify for the exam, candidates must be enrolled or have graduated from an ABET-accredited Engineering program. The exam includes 110 questions. After passing the test, Engineers are called Engineers in Training (EITs).

After passing the FE exam, EITs continue working in the Engineering field for at least four years before taking the next exam. The Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam is administered by the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) and the NCEES.

Licensing is only legally required for Engineers who provide services to the public, such as a Consulting Biomedical Engineer. However, becoming a licensed Engineer can lead to additional job opportunities and higher pay. Some employers may also prefer to hire licensed Biomedical Engineers for senior positions.

Step 7: Continue Your Education

Biomedical Engineers occasionally re-enroll in college to gain specialized skills or knowledge. For example, Biomedical Engineers may attend Medical School to learn more about the human body. Some Biomedical Engineers choose to obtain a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) to seek managerial jobs.