Overview of Biomedical/Medical Engineering
Biomedical/medical engineering is a field of study that focuses on the development and application of engineering principles and technologies in the medical field. It combines medical science with engineering techniques and device design, allowing medical professionals to diagnose and treat diseases and environment changes more efficiently. This field enables healthcare professionals to use more sophisticated medical equipment to diagnose and treat ailments in a safer, more effective manner.
Career Opportunities for Graduates with an Associate Degree in Biomedical/Medical Engineering
An associate degree in biomedical/medical engineering prepares students with the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful in the field. Popular career opportunities for individuals with an associate degree include medical device engineering, medical lab technicians, biomedical research scientists, and biomedical/medical device manufacturers. This degree provides a solid foundation for further studies in a doctorate or professional degree program.
Internship and Co-op Opportunities in Biomedical/Medical Engineering
There are a variety of internship and co-op opportunities available for individuals with an associate degree in biomedical/medical engineering. Many companies offer internships to ensure students are exposed to real world experience and to mentor them in their job search. Additionally, co-op programs are available to assist students in learning and refining essential skills before graduation. Students may even have the opportunity to work with medical specialists and learn up-to-date medical technologies.
Specialized Tracks or Concentrations within Biomedical/Medical Engineering
Depending on the university, students may be able to specialize in different concentrations within the biomedical/medical engineering field. This can include courses such as bioinformatics, biophysics, and tissue engineering. Other specializations may include research and development, medical device design, and quality control.
How an Associate Degree in Biomedical/Medical Engineering Prepares Students for Further Education
An associate degree in biomedical/medical engineering provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue further education. Most associate degrees include coursework in basic engineering concepts, physiology, anatomy, and medical technology. This type of degree also gives students the possibility to explore a specific branch of biomedical/medical engineering, such as bioinformatics, biophysics, or tissue engineering, which can be beneficial for further studies and research.
Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Biomedical/Medical Engineering
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is having a major impact on the biomedical/medical engineering field, providing new opportunities and benefits to the industry. AI is assisting in surgical imaging, drug development, diagnostics, medical record tracking, and patient-based decision support. Additionally, AI is being used in areas such as virtual assistants, diagnostic tools, and research studies. It is expected that AI will continue to have a growing impact in the biomedical/medical field in the years to come.
Career Outlook for Biomedical/Medical Engineering
The career outlook for graduates with an associate degree in biomedical/medical engineering is bright. It is projected that careers in biomedical/medical engineering will grow faster than other occupations over the next decade. Additionally, advancement within the field is common and those with more experience and education will have a larger range of opportunities available to them. With the rise of healthcare organizations and companies needing experts in the biomedical/medical engineering field, a career in this field can be both successful and rewarding.
Here are the top reported starting salaries for graduates in Biomedical/Medical Engineering:
- Portland Community College, Salary: $57,302
For privacy reasons, not all schools report the first year salaries for students who earned their associate degree in Biomedical/Medical Engineering.