The biomedical engineering (BME) program offers a solid core engineering, mathematics, and science curriculum organized into three main options, called tracks: (1) biomedical computing, imaging, and instrumentation (BCII); (2) biomechanics and rehabilitation engineering (BRE); and (3) tissue engineering and molecular bioengineering (TEMB). The BCII track is designed to train students who are interested in academic or industrial careers that involve the measuring and modeling of physiological systems, medical imaging, medical image processing and analysis, and the graphics and visualization industries. Emphasis is placed both on understanding the physiological system as well as the engineering and development of new sensors and measurement devices. The BRE track offers instruction on mechanical aspects of the body and on the development of load-bearing devices for improved human performance. The biomechanics option has added emphasis on tissue and fluid mechanics whereas the rehabilitation option has an emphasis on prosthetics and assisted devices. The TEMB track is designed for students who desire to apply engineering principles 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 master of science (M.S.) or doctor of philosophy (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-assisted 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 undergraduates in biomedical engineering to further their training and experience. The Honors Academy is designed for those high-achieving students who will immerse themselves in an accelerated research program. The Industrial Internship Program allows students at the end of their sophomore year to apply for a 10-week summer internship at local or national companies. The Co-op Program provides students with an industrial experience to the undergraduate program by complementing their coursework with a working engineering environment. The department also participates in the James J. Slade Scholars Program. These selective programs can serve as springboards for qualified students who wish to begin working toward an M.S. or Ph.D. degree in their senior year.
