Biomedical Engineering BSc/BEng/MEng
Study of how engineering, biology, and technology combine to improve health and medical care.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Are interested in healthcare and engineering
Enjoy science and technology
Want to improve medical systems
Like problem-solving
Are innovative
Popular Career Fields
Healthcare & Public Health
Research & Academia
Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology
Engineering & Construction
Your Personality Might Be:
Scientifically curious
Research & Academia
Healthcare-focused
Innovative thinker
What is it?
What Is a Biomedical Engineering Degree?
Biomedical Engineering applies engineering design and problem-solving to medicine and biology. It focuses on creating and improving medical devices, technologies, and systems that support diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.
Why Study Biomedical Engineering?
Biomedical engineers help to design prosthetic limbs, develop medical imaging systems, and create life-saving devices. This degree suits students who enjoy maths, science, and technology, and want to make a difference in healthcare through innovation.
Course Summary
Study of how engineering, biology, and technology combine to improve health and medical care.
What you'll study
Most Biomedical Engineering degrees cover:
Engineering mathematics and mechanics
Human anatomy and physiology
Biomaterials and biomechanics
Medical imaging and instrumentation
Electronics, sensors, and control systems
Computer programming and simulation
Rehabilitation and assistive technologies
Later in your course, you can often specialise, for example, in tissue engineering, medical robotics, or artificial intelligence for healthcare.
Degree Types
BSc (Bachelor of Science): Focuses on the biological and scientific aspects of biomedical technology.
BEng (Bachelor of Engineering): Concentrates on practical engineering design and systems development.
MEng (Integrated Master’s): A four-year course with advanced study and preparation for Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
Skills You'll Gain
A Biomedical Engineering degree builds both technical and professional skills, which could include:
Biomechanics Understanding – analysing how forces interact with the human body and medical technologies.
Medical Device Design – creating and improving equipment such as prosthetics, implants, and diagnostic tools.
Biomedical Signal & Imaging Skills – working with MRI, ultrasound, ECG, and other diagnostic systems.
Programming & Modelling – using software to simulate biological systems and engineering solutions.
Clinical Problem-Solving – developing engineering solutions that address real medical and healthcare challenges.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Biomedical Engineering graduates are in demand in sectors such as:
Medical devices and technology
Healthcare and hospitals
Pharmaceuticals and biotechnology
Rehabilitation and prosthetics
Research and development
Work Experiences & Placements
Many universities offer:
Industry placements or sandwich years, often with hospitals, research centres, or medical technology companies.
Summer internships in biomedical design, data analysis, or healthcare innovation.
These placements give you hands-on experience in applying engineering to medicine and can help guide your career path.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent including Maths and at least one Science (Physics, Chemistry, or Biology). Many universities require Maths plus two Sciences. Physics is often preferred.
Personal Statement Tips
Show your interest in both science and engineering.
Mention any projects, volunteering, or work experience related to healthcare or technology.
Reflect on how innovation in engineering can improve lives.
Include examples such as coding, robotics, or research projects.
What to do Next
Compare degrees to find the right balance between biology, engineering, and computing.
Attend open days or virtual sessions to explore labs and specialist facilities.
Try online courses in anatomy, coding, or electronics.
Read about the latest developments in medical technology and healthcare innovation.
Wider Reading
The Body: A Guide for Occupants by Bill Bryson – A fascinating look at human biology and anatomy.
To Engineer Is Human by Henry Petroski – Insight into design, failure, and engineering creativity.
Biodesign: The Process of Innovating Medical Technologies by Paul Yock et al. – A guide to innovation in healthcare engineering.
The Second Machine Age by Erik Brynjolfsson and Andrew McAfee – How technology is reshaping work, health, and society.