Bioengineering plays an important role in transforming discoveries at the intersection of engineering, the life sciences, and health care into innovative products and capabilities by applying new technologies to biomaterials, biomechanics, and biomedical instruments and procedures. Bioengineering combines engineering principles with biology and physiology from the molecular, cell, and tissue level up to the human form. Bioengineers solve problems to help improve human health and quality of life. Bioengineers can work in the medical device and biotechnology industries, in health care and research, and for government agencies, such as the FDA. Job opportunities in this field are expected to increase substantially by 2012.
The Bachelor of Science in Bioengineering emphasizes the application of new technology to biomaterials, biomechanics, and biomedical tools and procedures. Students learn how to solve problems associated with interactions between living and non-living materials and systems. Bioengineering students complete core courses common to all engineering majors as well as specialized courses in bioengineering. With the addition of another 4-credit general biology course, graduates will meet the pre-requisites for most medical schools.
