Employment Outlook
Learn more about the employment opportunities and educational requirements for bioengineering, one of the fastest emerging areas of scientific discovery.
Will There Be Jobs?
According to the US Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, biomedical engineers are expected to have 72% employment growth by 2018, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the aging of the population, focus on health issues, and increased demand for better medical devices and equipment – which will be designed by biomedical engineers.
How Much Will I Make?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual earnings for biomedical engineers is $82,550. According to engineersalary.com, the middle 50% of starting salaries for biomedical engineers in 2009 were between $56,770 and $93,170, with an average of $52,850.50% earn between $56,420 and $93,420.
A 2007 survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers listed average salary offers for biomedical engineering students about to graduate as $51,356 for bachelor’s degree candidates, and $59,240 for master’s degree candidates.
Where Will I Work?
Biomedical engineering graduates build careers as engineers, doctors, lawyers, scientists, teachers, CEOs, managers, physical therapists, and sales representatives in:
- Academic institutions
- Hospitals
- Governmental agencies
- A variety of industries
Currently, about 20% of biomedical engineers are employed in the medical equipment and supplies manufacturing industry and another 20% are employed in the scientific research and development services industry.
What Training Do I Need?
A bachelor’s degree in engineering will be required for almost all entry-level positions. Biomedical engineers need to have a good foundation in an engineering discipline, as well as training in the life sciences. At the undergraduate level, students might major in a traditional engineering discipline, such as electrical, mechanical, or chemical engineering, with a specialty in biomedical engineering. Graduate training is essential for University faculty positions and many research and development career paths. Students may also continue on to medical school, dental school, or law school.