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
Does this sound like a career for you? Browse jobs in the engineering industry here.
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
Browse companies hiring now.
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