The biomedical engineering (BME) program offers a solid core engineering, mathematics, and science curriculum organized with four main options, called tracks: (1) physiological systems and bioinstrumentation, (2) computational bioengineering and biomedical imaging, (3) biomechanics and rehabilitation engineering, and (4) tissue engineering and molecular bioengineering. The physiological systems and bioinstrumentation track aims to further our insights into the human machine with an eye toward understanding the evolution of disease, and provides insights into the tools and techniques used in design of biomedical instrumentation. The computational bioengineering and biomedical imaging track provides training in various biomedical imaging modalities and in theoretical modeling related to both microscopic and macroscopic biomedical phenomena. A focus in biomechanics and rehabilitation engineering offers instruction on mechanical aspects of the body and on development of load-bearing devices for improved human performance. The tissue engineering and molecular bioengineering suboption focuses on the use of concepts in engineering, materials science, and molecular and cell biology to develop new biocompatible materials for the fields of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, and to study and solve problems on the cellular and molecular scales.
The broad education provided by these tracks allows students to choose from a wide variety of careers. The degree program is designed to prepare qualified graduates for graduate study leading to the M.S. or Ph.D. degree in biomedical engineering. In addition, students are prepared to meet the graduate entrance requirements for medical and law schools, business administration, and other professional disciplines. Aspiring graduates with industrial experience and outlook can work in large corporations and smaller companies as practicing biomedical engineers. Increasing numbers of graduates are finding rewarding jobs in state and federal institutions, including the National Laboratories.
The achievements of biomedical engineering constantly touch our daily lives. Past and current breakthroughs that were pioneered at Rutgers include heart-assist devices for cardiac surgery; techniques for online analysis and operating room lesioning of brain tissue for Parkinson`s disease; an artificial hand with finger dexterity; the use of virtual reality in the rehabilitation of limbs; revolutionary techniques for making large numbers of new biopolymers for implants; and rapid NMR analysis of protein structure.
There are several exciting opportunities for conducting research at the undergraduate level. The department has established an Honors Academy in Biomedical Engineering for high achieving students. Additionally, the department participates in the School of Engineering`s James J. Slade Scholars Research Program. Both of these selective programs can serve as springboards for highly qualified students to commence work toward the M.S. or Ph.D. degree in the senior year of the undergraduate curriculum.
