Biomedical Engineering School: A Fusion of Science and Technology

by Kelly Richardson
Online Degrees Columnist

"Overall engineering employment is expected to grow…over the 2004-14 period. Starting salaries are significantly higher than those of graduates in other fields." -Occupational Outlook Handbook

Engineering hopefuls searching for their place in the industry should know about the biomedical field. This unique fusion of biological science and applied technology is responsible for some of the biggest medical discoveries and inventions over the past several decades. Biomedical engineering graduates are charged with the critical task of solving some of society's most perplexing health and quality-of-life challenges. The Biomedical Engineering Network details a collection of promising innovations, from biomedical robotics to the latest techniques in bio-, micro-, and nanosystems.

Biomedical Developments on the Horizon

Handheld Biomedical Lab. About the size of a paperback book, a new handheld biomedical diagnostic device allows field diagnoses of infectious diseases -- just like in Star Trek.
Infant Heart Pump. Pioneered at the Cleveland Clinic of Biomedicine, the infant heart pump extends the lives of newborns who suffer heart malfunction.
Reconstructive Stem Cell Research. For patients requiring cosmetic or reconstructive surgery, biomedical contributions to stem cell research are responsible for natural implants with superior functionality.

The Biomedical Profile

According to the Biomedical Engineering Society, "a Biomedical Engineer uses traditional engineering expertise to analyze and solve problems in biology and medicine, providing an overall enhancement of health care." Successful candidates in this field will have a robust background in engineering, science and technology training.

Intriguing specialty areas in biomedical engineering include:

Bioinstrumentation. The development of electronic devices to help diagnose and treat disease.
Genetic Engineering. Addressing health issues at the most fundamental level.
Medical Imaging. Employment of sound, radiation and magnetism to generate a readable image.
Systems Physiology. Studying the function and living mechanism of organisms using complex biomedical principles.

There is no better way to develop your analytical talents and research abilities than through biomedical engineering school. The next major discovery in this critical field might be yours.

About the Author
Kelly Richardson covers the local education and technology scenes in major cities across the country. His articles appear in a variety of respected educational journals, periodicals, and e-zines.

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