Choosing your degree subject and university is a big decision. We’re sure you have lots of questions about everything from the social life to what topics are covered in your chosen course. If you’re considering studying a Biomedical Engineering or Biomedical Sciences degree, we’ve brought together some key information to help you understand our courses better.
Biomedical Engineering
What is it?
Biomedical Engineering examines the links between engineering and the human body. It focuses on subjects such as biology (particularly anatomy and physiology), mathematics, computing and engineering, and how these combine to help lead advances in technology in healthcare. This involves the design and production of biomedical equipment and machinery that helps healthcare professionals perform tasks, and improve patient care. This could be in the form of external devices (e.g. leg braces, prosthetic limbs) or internal items (e.g. stents).
Where will I study?
Usually, as a student of the Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences, you’d be based at our City South Campus (in the Edgbaston area of the city), but as a Biomedical Engineering student, you’ll spend time at our City Centre Campus too – so you get the best of both worlds! The City Centre Campus is used for the some of the computing and engineering modules, and the rest is taught at City South Campus.
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What facilities are available for this course?
At City South Campus, you’ll have access to our specialist biomedical engineering equipment. This includes: automated soldering stations; portable and stationary 3D printing stations and related software (ANSYS, CAD and Simpleware); sensors and transducers with integrated software packages (the Matrix Laboratory (MATLAB); wireless technology for the measurement of physical activity using the activPAL™ system and the Biometrics System, and access to a portable 3D motion capture system.
What additional opportunities are open to me?
This course offers research projects and short placement opportunities both within and outside the University, through our strong partnerships and links with medical institutions and healthcare provider companies. Some students have gained experience in Orthotics at a local hospital, and Anneline went on a 9 week placement in California.
Who will I be taught by?
Our Biomedical Engineering staff have a range of interests and specialisms. We also work with guest lecturers and industry experts, to ensure that the course covers the latest developments in the subject. Read our staff profiles for more information.
Is this for me?
If you have a keen interest in how things work (both in terms of machinery and the human body) and have an inventive, creative and persistent nature, this could be for you. The coronavirus outbreak has certainly shone a light on the industry and showcased elements of what Biomedical Engineers can do.
Biomedical Sciences
What is it?
Biomedical Sciences examines health and human life processes, and looks at the diagnosis, management and treatment of illnesses and diseases. It has a strong biology focus and covers areas such as physiology, biochemistry, cell biology, microbiology and genetics. The practical elements are often laboratory based, so having good methodical and analytical skills is important if you’re considering this subject.
Where will I study?
You'll be based at our City South Campus (by the Birmingham Botanical Gardens), with everything you need on one campus, from course-related facilities to pizza in the Students’ Union!
What facilities are available for this course?
There are two main laboratories for you to use – a microbiology lab, and a bioscience lab. These contain several work stations with sinks, gas points for bunsen burners and space for you to complete experiments. The labs are equipped with modern equipment for teaching many of the molecular biology techniques that underpin modern clinical and research labs such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) machines (including real-time PCR), protein and DNA electrophoresis equipment, ELISA, a variety of cell-analysis and cell-culture tools.
What additional opportunities are open to me?
You can choose to take an optional placement year on this course, to improve your knowledge and skills and gain valuable work experience in the industry. Two students worked within the Biomedical Sciences Department for their placement year. They were able to see the University from a staff perspective, access equipment they wouldn't normally use, and help other students with their practical lessons.
Who will I be taught by?
Our Biomedical Sciences staff have expertise across a range of specialisms, and many are active researchers. Find out about the work of one of our lecturers, clinical biologist Dr Martin Goldberg.
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Is this for me?
If you have a keen interest in science and health, have a methodical and inquisitive nature, and want to make a difference to others from behind the scenes, then this could be for you. You never know, you could go on to be involved in projects to find future vaccines for viruses such as the coronavirus!