MA English Literature
The MA in English Literature at the University of Reading offers a comprehensive and im...
BEng Biomedical Engineering with Professional Experience
Reading
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BEng Biomedical Engineering with Professional Experience program at the University of Reading is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education that combines cutting-edge engineering principles with a deep understanding of biological and medical sciences. The program offers students the opportunity to gain valuable industry experience through a professional placement year, preparing them for rewarding careers in the biomedical engineering field. Graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to the development of innovative healthcare technologies, medical devices, and systems that improve patient care and healthcare delivery. By integrating both academic learning and practical experience, the program provides a well-rounded education in biomedical engineering.
Curriculum: The BEng Biomedical Engineering with Professional Experience curriculum is structured to ensure that students receive a strong foundation in engineering, biology, and medicine. In the first year, students are introduced to core engineering topics such as mechanics, electrical circuits, and materials science, while also gaining an understanding of human biology and the biomedical sciences. As students progress, they study more specialized topics such as biomechanics, biomaterials, medical imaging, and the design of medical devices. The program places a strong emphasis on practical skills, with opportunities for laboratory work, project-based learning, and exposure to real-world biomedical engineering challenges. In the final year, students have the opportunity to undertake a major individual project, which allows them to apply their knowledge to real-world problems and demonstrate their problem-solving skills. The professional experience year, typically undertaken in the third year, is a key feature of the program, offering students the chance to work in a biomedical engineering-related role in industry.
Research Focus: The University of Reading is at the forefront of biomedical engineering research, with particular strengths in areas such as medical device design, tissue engineering, biomaterials, and medical imaging. The university's research is driven by the aim of improving healthcare and advancing medical technologies. As part of the BEng Biomedical Engineering with Professional Experience program, students benefit from the university's strong research environment and its collaborations with industry leaders. These connections provide students with the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research projects and contribute to innovations that have the potential to improve patient care and healthcare delivery. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories, where they can explore the latest advancements in biomedical engineering. Additionally, the university’s emphasis on research fosters a culture of curiosity, encouraging students to question existing practices and contribute to the development of new technologies.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a critical component of the BEng Biomedical Engineering with Professional Experience program. The professional experience year is a unique feature of this program, providing students with the opportunity to apply their academic knowledge in a professional setting. During this placement, students work with industry professionals, gaining valuable hands-on experience and developing a deeper understanding of the biomedical engineering sector. The University of Reading has strong links with leading companies in the biomedical and healthcare industries, offering students the chance to work with world-renowned organizations in the design, development, and implementation of medical technologies. These partnerships not only provide students with the opportunity to develop their technical skills but also help them build professional networks that are invaluable when entering the workforce. The industry placement ensures that students are well-prepared for their careers, with practical experience that enhances their employability.
Global Perspective: The University of Reading provides students with a global perspective on biomedical engineering, recognizing that healthcare challenges are universal. With a diverse student body and faculty, the university fosters an inclusive environment that encourages the exchange of ideas and collaboration across cultures. Students are exposed to international research and industry practices, which helps them understand how biomedical engineering solutions are applied in different regions of the world. The university’s global network of partners and collaborators enables students to engage in international projects and research opportunities. The BEng Biomedical Engineering with Professional Experience program also encourages students to consider the global implications of biomedical technologies, preparing them for careers in a rapidly changing and interconnected world. Whether through research collaborations, international placements, or global health initiatives, students gain a broad understanding of the role biomedical engineering plays in improving healthcare outcomes on a global scale.
Location
Reading
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 29950
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 70% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 69.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 125.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Reading offers a variety of scholarships for international students to support academic excellence and financial needs.
Vice-Chancellor Global Scholarship Award: Merit-based scholarship for high-achieving international students. Covers partial tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Offered by individual departments based on academic excellence and course selection. Examples include scholarships in Business, Law, Agriculture, and Science.
Chevening Scholarships: A UK government-funded scholarship for outstanding students from eligible countries. Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Scholarships tailored for students from specific countries, including India, China, and the USA. Criteria vary based on nationality and academic performance.
The BEng Biomedical Engineering with Professional Experience program at the University of Reading offers students a robust foundation in both biomedical engineering and the opportunity to gain invaluable work experience through a professional placement year. This combination of academic learning and practical industry exposure equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving biomedical engineering sector. Upon completion, graduates are prepared to enter various roles within medical technology, healthcare, and engineering industries, contributing to innovations in patient care and healthcare systems.
Biomedical Engineer: One of the most prominent career paths for graduates of the BEng Biomedical Engineering with Professional Experience program is biomedical engineering. Biomedical engineers design and develop medical devices and equipment that improve healthcare delivery. Graduates may work on innovations such as prosthetics, medical imaging systems, and diagnostic equipment. These engineers work for medical device manufacturers, hospitals, or research institutions, where they contribute to the design, testing, and maintenance of critical medical technologies. The hands-on industry experience gained during the professional placement year greatly enhances a graduate’s employability in this competitive field.
Medical Device Development Engineer: Medical device development engineers focus on the design and testing of medical technologies used in various healthcare applications. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to work in the development of advanced devices, such as implants, diagnostic tools, and surgical instruments. The knowledge gained during their studies—combined with practical experience gained during their professional placement—prepares them to enter companies that specialize in healthcare innovations and medical product development.
Clinical Engineer: Clinical engineers work closely with healthcare providers to manage and maintain medical equipment in hospitals and clinical settings. They ensure that devices are safe, functional, and properly integrated into patient care systems. Graduates of the BEng Biomedical Engineering program can pursue clinical engineering roles where they work to troubleshoot, repair, and upgrade medical devices, ensuring that healthcare institutions are using the latest and safest technologies in their practice. The professional experience year helps students build essential skills in the clinical environment.
Biomechanics Engineer: Biomechanics engineers focus on understanding the mechanics of human movement and applying this knowledge to create products that improve mobility or performance. Graduates may work in rehabilitation technologies, designing prosthetic limbs, orthotics, or devices that enhance physical movement. They may also contribute to sports science and research, developing equipment to improve athletic performance or prevent injuries. The BEng Biomedical Engineering with Professional Experience program provides the specialized knowledge needed for this career path.
Tissue Engineer: Tissue engineering involves using engineering techniques to create or repair tissues and organs. This field holds great promise for regenerative medicine, as engineers and scientists work together to grow cells and design structures that can replace damaged or diseased tissues. Graduates who pursue careers in tissue engineering may be involved in the creation of artificial skin, cartilage, or even more complex organs for transplant purposes. The research focus at the University of Reading, combined with professional placement opportunities, allows students to engage in real-world applications in this cutting-edge field.
Healthcare Systems Engineer: Healthcare systems engineers work to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare delivery by designing and optimizing healthcare systems. This can include the development of new technologies, streamlining patient care processes, or enhancing healthcare facilities' management systems. Biomedical engineering graduates with an interest in systems thinking and healthcare delivery may take on roles as systems engineers within hospitals, clinics, or healthcare management organizations, where they use their engineering expertise to improve patient outcomes and operational efficiency.
Regulatory Affairs Specialist: Regulatory affairs specialists ensure that medical devices, healthcare technologies, and pharmaceuticals comply with industry standards and regulations set by government agencies such as the FDA or the European Medicines Agency. These professionals are crucial in ensuring the safety and efficacy of medical products before they reach the market. Graduates with a background in biomedical engineering are well-suited to navigate the regulatory landscape, particularly if they have gained hands-on experience with medical devices or healthcare systems during their professional placement year.
Biomedical Researcher: Some graduates may choose to pursue further academic qualifications, such as a Master's or PhD, and enter biomedical research. Biomedical researchers study the underlying principles of medical technologies and work on developing new devices, therapies, or treatment methods. They may work in academic institutions, private research organizations, or medical technology companies. With a strong emphasis on research at the University of Reading, graduates of the BEng Biomedical Engineering program are well-prepared to contribute to groundbreaking research and innovations in biomedical engineering.
Forensic Engineer: Forensic engineers investigate the causes of equipment failures, accidents, or injuries, particularly in cases involving medical devices or healthcare-related incidents. By applying their engineering expertise, forensic engineers can determine why a medical device malfunctioned and whether it contributed to an injury or death. Graduates of the program who are interested in law and medical device safety may pursue careers in forensic engineering, offering expertise for investigations and legal cases.
Teaching and Academia: Graduates who enjoy sharing knowledge and furthering the field of biomedical engineering may pursue careers in teaching and academia. With a postgraduate degree, such as a Master’s or PhD, they can become university lecturers or researchers in the biomedical engineering field. Educators in this area may teach the next generation of engineers or conduct research to advance the field.
