The Profession
Who They Are
Biomedical Engineers focus on applying engineering knowledge and techniques to solve biological and medical problems. They have created such devices as pacemakers, artificial skin, artificial organs, and automated insulin injectors.
What They Do
They design and build new devices, instruments and techniques to treat people suffering from injuries or diseases. They also design and adapt computer software for medical uses such as laser systems for eye surgery and computer-based systems for diagnosing diseases.
Where They Work
They often work in a lab setting. Biomedical engineers provide a vital link between advancing technology and health care treatment. They often work with a multidisciplinary team of surgeons, nurses, occupational therapists and medical specialists where they may be involved in clinical trials or demonstrating medical devices and equipment.
Outlook
The number of biomedical engineer positions is increasing nationally. In the next ten years, this number is expected to increase by 4%. Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Preparing to Apply
Students interested in applying to a biomedical engineering graduate program should look into the prerequisites for their program of interest. At the University of Minnesota, those with an engineering degree do not have explicit prerequisite courses. Those with an outside degree need to have completed courses in calculus, linear algebra, physics, and more.
The U of M program does not have a GRE requirement. A GPA of at least 3.5 for the PhD program and 3.2 for the Master program is preferred, but not required.
U of M Program
The University of Minnesota offers both an undergraduate and graduate program in biomedical engineering, based out of the College of Science and Engineering.