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Biomedical Technology/Technician

Program Description

Just the Facts

Biomedical Technology/Technician. A program that prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in support of engineers engaged in developing biological or medical systems and products. Includes instruction in instrument calibration, design and installation testing, system safety and maintenance procedures, procurement and installation procedures, and report preparation.

This program is available in these options:

  • Certificate / Diploma
  • Associate degree
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Master's degree
  • Doctoral degree

High School Courses

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See the high school courses recommended for programs in this pathway:


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Related Programs

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Additional Information

If you like working with machines as much as you like working with people, a career in biomedical engineering technology may be a perfect fit.

A biomedical engineering technologist or technician works with doctors and biomedical engineers to use, maintain, troubleshoot or repair biomedical equipment -- like a heart pacemaker, an X-ray machine or a machine needed in experiments on DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid).

Most biomedical engineering technology programs (also called biomedical equipment technician programs) are only two years long, but you can expect to upgrade your training throughout your career.

You may want to check if a program is geared toward certification in the industry.

Certification is formal recognition by the International Certification Commission for Clinical Engineering and Biomedical Technology (ICC). It tests technicians on theoretical and practical knowledge of the principles of biomedical equipment technology specialties in a written exam.

Typical courses in this program include technical communication, algebra, calculus, statistics, organic chemistry, biochemistry, analytical chemistry, human anatomy and physiology, biophysics, and electricity and electronics.

Throughout the program, students get hands-on laboratory experience and training in engineering problem-solving methodology.

Many programs have an internship component to provide on-the-job training. Bruce Duncan, coordinator of biomedical engineering at a hospital, supervises the internships of many biomedical engineering technology students.

He says the program is a busy one, with 35 hours per week of classes and labs, "compared to about half that at a university. The students' time is very fully occupied. There is somewhat less independent study than is expected in a university program."

The program requires high school physics and chemistry as well as lots of math and English. Anthony Chan, director of a biomedical engineering technology program, adds that extracurricular activities using computers, electronics or hand tools would be useful as well.

In addition to tuition, students can expect to pay about $1,000 for books and supplies during each of the two years. Supplies include simple hand tools and electronic parts for labs.

Students are also encouraged to join professional associations in their state. A fee is charged for membership.


Links

Occupational Outlook Handbook
For more information related to this field of study, see: Installation, Maintenance and Repair Occupations

Biomedical Engineering Network
Offers resources, information on jobs, grants and more

What is Biomedical Research?
Learn more about the topic from the Foundation for Biomedical Research