A BSc level option in biomedical electronics

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Electronics
• Medical Instrumentation
• Electrical Engineering Education

Background:

• Established use of electronic instruments in medical diagnosis and therapy.
• Significant demand for electronic engineers in healthcare and industry.
• Limited undergraduate Biomedical Electronics programs in the UK during the 1970s.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline objectives for a first-degree Biomedical Electronics course.
• To emphasize the importance of practical industrial and hospital experience.
• To propose a viable undergraduate curriculum structure.

Main Methods:

• Designing a sandwich course option in Biomedical Electronics.
• Integrating practical experience within an Electrical and Electronic Engineering BSc.
• Aligning the curriculum with Institution of Electrical Engineers (IEE) guidelines.

Main Results:

• A structured Biomedical Electronics option was developed.
• The course allows for flexible entry and exit points.
• The curriculum meets IEE educational requirements for professional exemption.

Conclusions:

• A sandwich course in Biomedical Electronics can effectively address industry demand.
• Practical experience is crucial for training competent biomedical electronics engineers.
• The proposed course structure provides a model for other institutions.