Associate degree programs in biomedical equipment engineering focus on the repair of surgical, diagnostic and mechanical equipment, while bachelor's degree programs might also include training in medical procedures and laboratory support. Certificate programs are also available.
10 Biomedical Equipment Engineering Technology Schools
Programs for aspiring biomedical equipment engineers are offered by these schools.
| College/University | Location | Institution Type | Degrees Offered | Tuition and Fees (2018-2019)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cuyahoga Community College | Cleveland, OH | 2-year, Public | Associate | $3,436 in-district $4,322 in-state $8,136 out-of-state |
| Community College of Philadelphia | Philadelphia, PA | 2-year, Public | Certificate | $5,142 in-district $10,284 in-state $15,426 out-of-state |
| Anoka Technical College | Anoka, MN | 2-year, Public | Associate | $5,584 |
| Texas State Technical College | Waco, TX | 2-year, Public | Associate Certificate | $5,570 in-state $10,080 out-of-state |
| Dakota County Technical College | Rosemount, MN | 2-year, Public | Associate Certificate | $5,713 |
| Spokane Community College | Spokane, WA | 4-year, Public | Associate | $3,547 in-state $8,914 out-of-state |
| Florida State College at Jacksonville | Jacksonville, FL | 4-year, Public | Associate | $2,878 in-state $9,992 out-of-state |
| Cincinnati State Technical and Community College | Cincinnati, OH | 2-year, Public | Associate | $4,126 in-state $8,026 out-of-state |
| St Petersburg College | Clearwater, FL | 4-year, Public | Associate Certificate | $2,682 in-state $9,286 out-of-state |
| Lone Star College | The Woodlands, TX | 2-year, Public | Associate | $1,600 in-district $3,880 in-state $5,200 out-of-state |
Source: *National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
School Selection Criteria
Students interested in biomedical equipment engineering programs may want to keep several factors in mind when choosing a program:
- Students interested in acquiring fundamental medical knowledge may find that a bachelor's degree provides more employment opportunities, higher salaries and increased medical assisting responsibilities than an associate degree.
- Students should look for schools with internship programs that will allow them to work with trained professionals in the testing and manufacturing phases of medical devices, familiarizing them with hospital settings and patient interaction.
- Aspiring biomedical equipment technicians at any degree level should enroll in programs where clinical experiences and on-site, hands-on opportunities offer exposure to the latest equipment used in the field.
- Students may want to select a school that has a good relationship with potential local employers, where they can form industry connections.
Associate Degree in Biomedical Equipment Technology
Associate degree programs in biomedical equipment technology include basic courses in chemistry, physics and mathematics. They also include instruction in electronics and computer science. Many schools allow students to participate in a clinical experience, such as an internship.
Bachelor's Degree in Biomedical Engineering Technology
Bachelor's degree programs in biomedical engineering technology commonly include fundamental principles in electronic circuitry and computer technology. Some schools offer courses in specific areas of engineering, such as radiography technology and automated mechanics. Medical and laboratory assisting are also typically taught at the bachelor's level. Clinical practicum and internship opportunities are usually available. Students are typically required to complete a senior project during their final semester.
Certificate in Biomedical Engineering Technology
Most biomedical engineering technology certificates provide a short series of courses that provide students with a general overview of the field. The curriculum is usually similar to associate's degree programs, but without general education requirements. Several schools also offer an ancillary certificate to graduates of a degree program who want additional training in the field. Most focus coursework on IT systems and networking, and might include a requirement for obtaining CompTia's A+ certification. These programs can usually be completed in 1-2 semesters and might include instruction in advanced biomedical systems and equipment, such as microprocessors, local area networks and biomedical instrumentation.
Biomedical equipment engineering programs are offered at the undergraduate level. There are a number of public and private institutions to choose from and most offer certificate, associate and bachelor's degree programs that include hands-on training in the form of clinical requirements and internship opportunities.
