What is Biomedical Engineering?

The Biomedical Engineering Option at UNB is open to all students entering Chemical, Electrical Computer or Mechanical Engineering. It is offered through the Faculty of Engineering in collaboration with The Institute of Biomedical Engineering and the Faculties of Science, and Kinesiology.

In general, the Biomedical Engineering Option is set up for students who are interested in preparing for a medical degree, or a career in biomedical engineering while studying within the engineering program of their choice. Students take the regular program-specific engineering core courses and substitute elective courses with courses such as biology, human physiology, organic chemistry, biomechanics, bioinstrumentation, biosignal processing etc. Within this option, student can be prepared to write the medical school entrance exams (MCATs) by the end of their second year. Students completing the option are also exceptionally well prepared to enter graduate school in biomedical engineering, or to begin a professional career as an engineer trained in the program of their choice, with a specialization in Biomedical Engineering.

What can I do with a Biomedical specialization in electrical engineering?

Biomedical engineering is mostly concerned with applying engineering principles to problems in biology and medicine. To solve problems of this nature you need to have strong foundations in the biological sciences and engineering. Thus, studying biomedical engineering offers you the opportunity to prepare for a career in medicine or medical technology industries such as diagnostic monitoring, therapeutic devices, drug delivery systems, and health care information systems. Studying biomedical engineering also prepares you for higher education in research areas such a biosignal processing and biomechanics.

Why should I take a Biomedical Engineering Option at UNB?

The University of New Brunswick is particularly well suited to offer a Biomedical Engineering Option. It houses a well-respected Institute of Biomedical Engineering which is a world leader in biosignal processing and artificial limb research and development. As a student in the biomedical engineering option, you will have the opportunity to take courses from and do research with some of the best biomedical engineers in the country.

What do I take and how does it differ from the regular electrical engineering program?

You can finish electrical engineering with a biomedical engineering option in the same amount of time it takes to finish the regular electrical engineering program. The biomedical option replaces basic science and technical electives with biomedical related required courses. The following list summarizes the difference between a regular program and a program which includes the option. For a complete 4 year plan, download the EE-Bio-Option Matrix.

Can I enter the Biomedical Engineering Option from electrical engineering after 1st year?

Yes you can. Changes to the electrical engineering program to accommodate the Biomedical Engineering option do not occur until 2nd year. Thus, you can enroll in the option after completing 1st year without adding courses to your program. Enrollment in the option after 2nd year is possible, but you may have take additional courses to meet the option requirements.

Can I prepare for medical school by taking the Biomedical Option through electrical engineering?

Yes you can. By choosing your Option area and open technical electives carefully, you can take courses which will prepare you for the Medical School Entrance Examinations (MCATs) and for entrance into most medical schools in North America. The following list summarizes these basic requirements. If you are planning to pursue a career in medicine, you should contact the Biomedical Engineering Option (bioeng@unb.ca) coordinator for further guidance.

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