Overview
The Biomedical and Electrical Engineering program looks at the application of electrical engineering and scientific principles such as electromagnetic waves, electronics, engineering materials, signal processing, computing and display devices, quantitative analysis, communication systems and image analysis to solve problems in biotechnology and medicine. Technology is used to design and build new components and systems for biomedical applications. Biological signals, such as those from the heart and brain, are routinely used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Computer tools are used to collect and analyze data, such as gene sequence databases, that contain millions of entries. Mechanical elements, sensors, actuators, and electronics make medical devices work and could even be used to deliver drugs inside the human body. Advances in medical imaging techniques such as MRI and PET scans lead to the early diagnosis of many diseases and to an increase in the effectiveness of treatment and prevention. Medical informatics, telemedicine, and Electronic Health Records help improve the delivery of health care. The possibilities are almost endless in this fast growing field.
The program is designed to be fully compliant with the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board requirements and guidelines. Graduates from the program will meet the educational requirements for registration as a professional engineer. The program is also designed to meet the prerequisite courses required by most medical schools in North America.
As a student in the Biomedical and Electrical Engineering program, you have the opportunity to enroll in a co-operative education option. Our program is closely linked with the local hospitals and the University of Ottawa Heart Institute.
What Biomedical and Electrical Engineers Will Know
The program develops a wide range of skills you will need for success in your career, including expertise in bioinformatics, bio-signal processing, IT in bio-medicine, micro-technology for sensors and MEMS, and instruments and measurements, biomechanics and cardiovascular devices.
What Biomedical and Electrical Engineers Will Do: Employment Opportunities
As a graduate of this program, you could find employment in health care establishments and medical facilities, working with computers, medical equipment, or medical devices. Or you could be employed by industry, developing health care technologies such as electronic implants, safer medical materials and devices, or superior data management and diagnostic systems. Another possibility is medical research institutes where you can be involved in exciting new developments.
You will also be well prepared to enter graduate programs in Biomedical Engineering or Electrical Engineering, or to apply to a medical school if you decide to further your medical education. In fact, this program satisfies the “pre-med” requirements of most medical schools in North America.
The Academic Program
As a student in this new program, you will spend your first year learning the fundamentals of basic science and mathematics, including biology, chemistry, and physics. Second year offers introductory courses in network analysis, electronic circuit design, numerical analysis and biochemistry. Third year courses provide specialization in digital and analog circuit design, semiconductor device physics, electromagnetics, and organic chemistry. Fourth year offers options for further specialization in biomedical engineering, such signal processing and medical instrumentation, and opportunities to apply your knowledge to the medical and health care fields.