Why study biomedical engineering?

Explore the intersection of healthcare and innovation to develop practical solutions for real-world challenges.

What is biomedical engineering?

Biomedical engineering merges engineering principles with biological and medical sciences to develop innovative, medical technologies that enhance healthcare. Biomedical engineering sits at the intersection of technology and human biology, integrating robotics, nanotechnology and artificial intelligence to push the boundaries of modern medicine.

Engineers create biocompatible implants, develop advanced prosthetics for improved mobility and refine imaging techniques for accurate diagnoses. This field plays a vital role in medical advancements, improving patient care and treatment outcomes.

Beyond designing medical devices, biomedical engineers contribute to areas such as biomaterials, biomechanics, medical imaging and rehabilitation engineering. Their work spans hospitals, research institutions and the medical device industry, shaping the future of healthcare.

What does a biomedical engineer do?

A biomedical engineer works across several disciplines to design life-changing solutions by applying expertise in physics, mathematics, computing, and materials science to tackle medical challenges, improve diagnostics and develop effective treatments. Some of these may include:

AI-driven genetics diagnostics: Bridging biomedical science, computer engineering and clinical medicine, artificial intelligence and machine learning is pioneering societal change through analysing genetic markers and facial features to accelerate diagnosis and personalise treatment for patients.
Implantable bionics and prosthetics: Combining mechanical, electrical and materials engineering with clinical collaboration to create next-generation medical technologies, including bionic eyes, implantable sensors and regenerative bone devices. These innovations restore function and enhance quality of life.
Tissue engineering and biomaterials: Incorporating materials science, biology and chemical engineering, biomedical engineers develop smart biomaterials and engineer tissues to treat injuries and diseases more effectively.
Advanced biosensing and imaging: Harnessing principles from biophysics, chemical and electrical engineering, experts design innovative tools for early disease detection and diagnosis, significantly enhancing patient outcomes.
Digital medicine and health informatics: Technological innovation can transform the delivery of healthcare solutions through remote monitoring, digital diagnostics and connected care systems. Through the development of a connected health system, biomedical engineers create high quality healthcare more accessible, equitable and responsive to patient needs, while ensuring seamless continuity of care.
Medical robotics and human-machine interfaces: Biomedical engineers develop robotics and biomechatronics like surgical robots and wearable assistive devices, to enhance precision, mobility and independence in patients.

For those passionate about innovation and human health, biomedical engineering offers a dynamic and impactful career path with endless possibilities.

What areas of health do biomedical engineering impact?

Biomedical engineering is an interdisciplinary field that merges principles across engineering, biology and medicine, to improve human health. Within this, there are four key impact areas.

Combining biological and computational modelling is transforming cardiovascular care by improving diagnosis, clinical decision-making and treatment. Some innovations include developing advanced “in vitro” models to test nanoparticle drug delivery systems to increase the precision and effectiveness of cardiovascular therapies. These developments shape the future of heart health by making treatments more accurate, accessible and patient-specific.
Advances in neurological health research are driving the development of sophisticated models of the brain and nervous system. Computer simulations and lab-grown tissue are used to explore new treatments for nerve damage and neurological disorders. An example of this is the engineering of hydrogels to support tissue repair and designing neuromusculoskeletal models to better understand pathological conditions like cerebral palsy. These efforts aim to restore function, reduce reliance on animal testing and improve quality of life for people with neurological conditions.
Innovative research in gut health is transforming how clinicians diagnose and treat gastrointestinal diseases. Researchers are using artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyse genetic biomarkers enables faster and more accurate diagnosis for personalised treatments. Some advancements include the development of advanced biosensors, like the implantable “AutoGut” device to monitor inflammation in real time and guide targeted therapies for conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). By integrating computational modelling, bioelectronics and cell therapy, solutions are smarter, safer and more effective for one of the body’s most complex systems.
The latest developments in computational and biological modelling are shaping how researchers and clinicians test theories, explore innovations and trial new treatments faster and more accurately. Researchers are using advanced technologies to improve how people move, to reduce risks and improve the quality of life of those living with conditions that impact their physical abilities. These initiatives aim to boost mobility, foster independence and quality of life for people of all ages.

How long does it take to become a biomedical engineer?

To become a biomedical engineer, it typically takes at least four years.

You may choose to undertake an undergraduate degree, like a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Biomedical Engineering) , which is a four year program. You may also choose to undertake a double degree like a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) / Master of Biomedical Engineering, which is a five year program. Throughout your studies, you’ll gain practical industry experience to advance your career and development.

You can enhance your biomedical engineering career; postgraduate study options are also available through a Master of Engineering Science (Biomedical Engineering) or Master of Engineering (Biomedical Engineering)*. Click here to learn more.

*This degree is provisionally accredited by Engineers Australia.

Growth

Based on a five year projection, jobs in biomedical engineering are predicted to grow by 8.4%.

Impact

Improve people's lives by developing and advancing medical devices and treatments.

Salary

The average annual salary for biomedical engineer roles in Australia ranges from $75,000 to $95,000.

How much does a biomedical engineer earn?

A biomedical engineer’s salary may vary depending on sector and career progression. According to Seek data, in Australia, the average annual salary for jobs in biomedical engineering ranges from $75,000 to $95,000.

Why study a Bachelor of Engineering at UNSW?

At UNSW, we are home to Australia’s oldest Biomedical Engineering school and have a strong reputation for research and teaching excellent. Through the School of Biomedical Engineering, you can access industry partnerships with leading health organisations, such as the Australian Institute of Sport and the Australian Heart Foundation.

Our world-class biomedical facilities expose you to the latest technology and tools. These facilities include an electronics and bioinstrumentation design laboratory, ISO Class 7 cleanroom and implantable bionics laboratories, PC2 cell and tissue culture laboratories, surgical facilities, and microscopy and microanalysis equipment.