The discussion revolves around the educational pathways for pursuing a career in Biomedical Engineering (BME), particularly focusing on the suitability of various undergraduate degrees such as Biology, Mechanical Engineering, and Electrical Engineering for graduate studies in BME.
Participants express differing views on the most suitable undergraduate degree for entering Biomedical Engineering graduate programs. While there is some consensus that engineering degrees are advantageous, there is no agreement on which specific discipline is the best preparation.
The discussion reflects varying opinions on the educational requirements for Biomedical Engineering, with participants highlighting the importance of different skill sets and backgrounds without reaching a definitive conclusion on the best path.
l-1j-cho said:so you mean EE degree is more related to BME than ME?
Here's what a poster has to say about BME.checkout this informations about biomedical engineering
Biomedical engineering (BME) is the application of engineering principles and techniques to the medical field. It combines the design and problem solving expertise of engineering with the medical expertise of physicians to help improve patient health care and the quality of life of healthy individuals. As a relatively new discipline, much of the work in biomedical engineering consists of research and development, covering an array of fields: bioinformatics, medical imaging, image processing, physiological signal processing, biomechanics, biomaterials and bioengineering, systems analysis, 3-D modeling, etc. Examples of concrete applications of biomedical engineering are the development and manufacture of biocompatible prostheses, medical devices, diagnostic devices and imaging equipment such as MRIs and EEGs, and pharmaceutical drugs.
Biomedical engineers usually require degrees from recognized universities, and sound knowledge of engineering and biological science. Their jobs often pay well (ranging from US $50,000 to $125,000 per year in 2005). Though the number of biomedical engineers is currently low (under 10,000), the number is expected to rise as modern medicine improves. Universities are now improving their biomedical engineering courses because interest in the field is increasing. Currently, according to U.S. News & World Report, the program at Johns Hopkins University is ranked first in the nation in the category of bioengineering/biomedical engineering. At the undergraduate level, an increasing number of programs are also becoming recognized by ABET as accredited bioengineering/biomedical engineering programs in the United States. Duke University, ranked second in the U.S. by U.S. News, was the first program accredited by the Engineering Council for Profession Development (now ABET) in September of 1972.
and that's also form Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biomedical_engineering
TVP45 said:OK, I worked about 14 years as a biomechanical engineer, much of that in a major medical research hospital complex. I know lots of biomedical guys and can shed some light (specific to US). Although there is a Biomedical Engr. major, many do not arrive via that route. My education was Physics and Engineering Physics. I needed heavy design knowledge in mechanics and electrical and a moderate background in chemistry and a wee background in Biology. Others that I worked with had heavy computer skills or heavy electronics skills or othotics or biology, etc. There is no one size fits all preparation. I can tell you that you will almost certainly need an advanced degree in the US. No matter the route, you must absolutely have good math and communication skills.
If you are truly interested, write to one of the major centers and ask for a visit. Volunteer as an unpaid summer intern. Interview someone who is working in the area you are interested in.