Find out everything you need to know about becoming a Biomedical Engineer.

Job Title – Biomedical Engineer

Description

A Biomedical Engineer typically designs systems and products, such as artificial internal organs, artificial devices that replace body parts, and machines for diagnosing medical problems. 

Typical Job Activities

Designs systems and products, such as artificial internal organs, artificial devices that replace body parts, and machines for diagnosing medical problems
Installs, adjusts, maintains, repairs, or provides technical support for biomedical equipment
Evaluates the safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of biomedical equipment
Trains clinicians and other personnel on the proper use of equipment
Works with life scientists, chemists, and medical scientists to research the engineering aspects of biological systems of humans and animals

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Related Occupations

Biomedical technologist
Chemical engineer
Manufacturer's representative
Radiological technologist
Systems analyst

Educational Requirements

Senior Certificate with a matric Exception

Compulsory subjects: Mathematics and Physical Science
Recommended subjects: Biology and Physiology

Entry to Work Place

University:
At present the University of Cape Town is the only South African university offering degree courses in biomedical engineering. The Department of Biomedical Engineering forms part of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Cape Town and the Groote Schuur group of teaching hospitals.
A Graduate Diploma in Clinical Engineering can also be followed at the Department of Biomedical Engineering.
The Department of Electronics Engineering of the University of Pretoria provides courses related to biomedical engineering.

Post-graduate study:
Since undergraduate training in engineering or physical sciences is an entry requirement, courses in biomedical engineering consist of post-graduate programmes leading to the:
BSc (Med) (Hons) Biomedical Science
MSc (Med) Biomedical Engineering or Biomedical Science
MPhil and PhD degree

Registration:

A biomedical engineer who wants to practise in a clinical setting must register with the Interim South African Medical and Dental Council as a biomedical engineer
The MSc (Med) degree in biomedical engineering is recognised by the Engineering Council of South Africa and by the Interim South African Medical and Dental Council as partial credit towards registration as a professional engineer and a biomedical engineer respectively
Note:
ECSA is currently pursuing several exercises towards its goal of ensuring international competitiveness on both educational and professional level for all South African engineering practitioners.

What natural skills and/or aptitudes do I need for this occupation?

Work well with others
Be able to communicate well in speech and in writing
Be able to work independently
Be a good decision maker
Have perseverance and be patient
Be flexible
Have mechanical ability
Possess finger and hand dexterity
Have good eye-hand co-ordination

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Employment Opportunities 

Moderate

Market Competitiveness

Low

Income Potential

High

Self-Employment Opportunities

High

International Employment Opportunities

High

Possible Employers

The Centre for Engineering and Health Care, University of Cape Town
Hospitals and other health care facilities
Medical research institutes
Universities
Medical electronics industry

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Relevant Contact Details

The Academic Programme Co-ordinator, Biomedical Engineering Society of South Africa (BESSA)
Tell: 021 406-6235 

Career Progress and Path 

Further studies in the specific career field Further studies in related fields
Experience in specific field
Work performance
Do presentations, seminars, publish articles, etc.
General management studies

Possible Career Paths

Specialist career in the specific field
Management positions in the specific field
Management positions in related fields
Consultant
Own business

Employment Stability

Very stable

Reasons to consider this career

I can be of service to people
I can design things
The need is determined by new technology
I can work with technology
I am very interested in a specific subject or field
I can create new things
I’ll be able to learn new things on an ongoing basis