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Bioengineer

What Is a Bioengineer and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

Table of Contents

What Do Bioengineers Do?

Bioengineers, also called biomedical engineers, design tools, devices, and computer software used in health care and applied biological sciences. Using their knowledge in many disciplines, they conduct research and develop solutions to problems. They often have a joint background in engineering and medicine, and frequently work with physicians, therapists, and researchers to solve medical problems. In addition to working in research, bioengineers may also design specialized electrical circuits and software for medical equipment or program computer simulations for virtual experiments of new drug therapies. Some bioengineers design and construct artificial body parts such as joints and prosthetics.

How to Become a Bioengineer

To establish a career as a Bioengineer, sometimes known as a Biomedical Engineer, you’ll need to earn at least a bachelor’s degree, though many of the top positions in the industry may require a master’s or even doctorate degree. Your major should be in applicable fields like bioengineering or biomedical engineering. In following a career track that shares elements of medicine and engineering, you’ll need an aptitude for both disciplines. In addition, you’ll need advanced analytical and problem-solving skills, a talent for medical instrument design, and the ability to invent workable solutions in the healthcare environment. While it depends on both the employer and your career preferences, you may have to earn a Professional Engineering (PE) license, which involves passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and supervised work experience.

What Kind of Degree Do I Need to Be a Bioengineer?

To become a bioengineer and find employment, a bachelor’s degree in bioengineering or biomedical engineering is required. Many positions and higher-level opportunities, especially in research, will be available for candidates with master’s or doctoral degrees.

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