Degree Overview: Associate of Arts (A.A.) Degree in Biomedical Engineering Technology
Majors Overview December 9, 2013Those interested in the repair and maintenance of medical tools should look into biomedical engineering technology programs. Graduates may also be supervised by biomedical engineers in the manufacturing and design of advanced technologies in medical tools.
A.A. Programs in Biomedical Engineering Technology
Students enrolled in Biomedical engineering technology Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree program are provided training and education related to computerize and electronic medical tools used in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, among others. Students enrolled in these programs can expect to become adept at applying science and math to medical equipment to ensure their proper use while also troubleshooting issues.
Biomedical engineering technicians also learn to help select and install equipment, and become fluent in equipment inspection procedures. Students enrolled in these programs can seek entry-level careers in biomedical technology; some programs allow students to transfer credits earned into four-year bachelor’s degree programs in biomedical engineering technology.
Education Requirements
Admission criteria typically require applicants to hold GED certificates or high school diplomas. Additionally, applicants are required by most schools to submit a high school record comprising three courses in math, including algebra and trigonometry, and a course each in chemistry and biology. Some colleges may offer preparatory courses for applicants who are deficient in high school courses.
Coursework
Coursework augments general education courses in science, math and the humanities by focusing on the science and function of medical equipment. Students may also have to participate in an internship at a local health care facility. Coursework may include topic areas such as:
•Computer applications for technical support
•Fundamentals of electronic devices
•Modern digital and computerized equipment
•Design and maintenance of biomedical equipment
•Overview of biomedical equipment in health care
•The role of a biomedical equipment technician
Wage and Job Outlook
Biomedical equipment technicians are classified as medical machine repairers by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which predicts that this group will enjoy a higher-than-average job growth rate of 27% between 2010 and 2020. In 2009, medical machine repairers earned an annual average wage of $44,490. In 2011, a biomedical equipment technician earned an annual average salary ranging between $38,527 and $55,404 (Payscale.com).
Continuing Education and Certification Choices
These professionals can increase their job prospects by volunteering for certifications offered by the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation such as the Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician credential program, in addition to the Certified Laboratory Equipment Specialist and Certified Radiology Equipment Specialist programs. Eligibility for the certification exam depends on the completion by applicants of an Associate of Arts degree program in electronics technology or biomedical technology and a specific extent of work experience.
These professionals can increase their career advancement opportunities by earning a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering technology. Individuals interested in work involving research, design, and testing of new technology would benefit by enrolling into a Biomedical engineering bachelor’s degree program.
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