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Degree Overview: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Bioengineering

Majors Overview November 15, 2014

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree programs in Bioengineering are usually interdisciplinary degree programs that feature a combination of science, medicine, and engineering studies. Undergraduate bioengineering degree programs will prepare students for employment in different biomedical fields, including pharmaceutical manufacturing, or further education in advanced bioengineering degrees.

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in Bioengineering

Students enrolled in a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Bioengineering program complete coursework that includes the study of cell biology, electrical engineering, and computer engineering. They learn about the application of new technology to biomedical procedures and tools.

They may be able to choose from concentrations in areas such as bioelectronics or rehabilitation bioengineering. The curriculum generally includes completion of a senior project that involves a thesis and lab research, in addition to classroom instruction.

Education Requirements

Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or a high school diploma, in addition to completion of college courses in chemistry, calculus, and physics.

Beyond the high school diploma or GED, students may need to complete college coursework in physics, calculus, and chemistry for admission to an undergraduate bioengineering program. Students seeking admission would also need to meet a minimum grade point average.

Coursework

The curriculum typically includes subject areas such as medicine and physics, including product development, transportation, and instrumentation. Coursework may also include additional topic areas, such as:

•Health care engineering
•Biomaterials
•Computer programming
•Genetics
•Data structures
•Computer engineering

Job and Wage Outlook

A high job growth rate of 27% has been predicted for biomedical engineers over the 2012 – 2022 decade (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics), which is attributable to both an aging population and technological advancements in the industry. In May 2012, these professionals brought home an average annual wage of $86,960 (BLS).

Continuing Education Choices

Those that successfully complete the program may seek further education by earning a Master of Science (M.S.) in Bioengineering that would allow them to develop medical devices or work within medical research facilities in their future careers. Both non-thesis and thesis options are available for master’s degree students. Courses offered may include statistics for engineers and scientists, chemical engineering techniques, and numerical analysis.

Licensure is mandatory for engineers that directly offer services to the public. Passage of a state exam, gaining four years’ work experience, and holding a degree from an accredited engineering program will suffice for state licensure requirements and to be designated as a Professional Engineer.

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