Biomedical Engineering

Course overview

Accredited by IMechE this degree will provide the next generation of biomedical engineers with the practical skills, knowledge and experience to develop innovative technologies and solutions contributing to the development of medical devices, diagnostic tools prosthetics, and therapies.

With strong links to UK and International industries and world-class facilities, we will prepare you for a successful career that can help you transform healthcare. Our academics are actively involved in the field and have generated companies and partners with several hospitals, industry consortia, and medical device forums, giving our students access to over 100 companies, developing real-world health products in an entrepreneurial environment.

"My course introduced me to software development and made me realise it's something that I enjoy and wanted to pursue as a career."

Miraj Rahman

Biomedical Engineering

Software Development

Why Biomedical Engineering at Aston University?

Accredited degree

Accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE)

TEF Gold

Aston University was awarded Gold- the highest possible rating for Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF, 2023)

Ranked 13th in the UK

Biomedical Engineering, The Guardian University Guide 2024

Biomedical Engineering at Aston University

Discover what Biomedical Engineering graduate, Fatma Alimahomed, loved about the course and what she has gone on to do since graduating.

Careers and Placements

Whatever your Aston University journey, we're here to help. Discover what's possible with Careers and Placements.

Course description

BEng Biomedical Engineering

The BEng Biomedical Engineering degree at Aston University provides you with a blend of real-world application, theoretical study and industry links. We adopt an interdisciplinary approach, combining knowledge from engineering, biology, and medicine.

What we will provide
Our diverse curriculum, strong reputation and close links with industry will equip you with the skills to revolutionise healthcare. You will be learning in our cutting-edge facilities gaining practical experience with technology used in the field.

What you will provide
It is essential you demonstrate an interest in engineering, biology and medicine, whilst having resilience and perseverance to overcome challenges to find solutions. You will need to have a good understanding of subjects like calculus, physics, chemistry, and biology to grasp the necessary principles that underpin the field.

What skills we teach
You will be introduced to the fundamentals of biomedical engineering, focusing on topics such as biomechanics and biofluid mechanics to help understand the human body and its interactions with technology. We will support you in developing your transferable skills in leadership, problem-solving, teamwork and resilience through a focus on industrial led practical workshops and labs. We will also support you in enhancing your communication skills with professional training and public speaking opportunities.

MEng year
If you are on the BEng programme you will have the option to switch on our integrated masters. The MEng year allows you further to develop your knowledge and skills. You’ll spend the year completing an internship, work placement, or in an employment setting while studying masters level modules via distance learning.

Career prospects
Our biomedical engineering graduates have the skills and flexibility to be involved in a wide range of areas, working alongside doctors, therapists, and researchers as well as supporting clinical staff, personnel, and financial governance. After graduating, you could become involved in a huge range of exciting career paths including medical device design, modeling and simulation of human physiology and anatomy, and supporting hospitals in clinical and financial governance of existing medical equipment, or in the assessment of new technologies.

How you will learn

The programme is designed to be interactive and is delivered through hands-on practical sessions, lectures, tutorials and seminars, lab classes, interactive workshops ensuring you graduate with skills fit for industry. We have regular visits from guest lectures, industry visits, and collaborations with healthcare organisations and medical device manufacturers provide students with insights into the practical aspects of biomedical engineering and potential career pathways.

Here at Aston University, we are passionate about supporting our students. You will have a personal tutor throughout your studies to provide support and guidance. The Learning Development Centre is there to provide maths support, academic writing development, advice, and strategies for managing your studies. You will also have the opportunity to get involved in PAL sessions, learning from your peers who have been through the course content before you.

Extracurricular activities:

We encourage students to engage in research and innovation projects and you will have the opportunity to collaborate with academics on ongoing research initiatives or participate in research and contribute to advancements in biomedical engineering.
You will be able to enrich your studies with an opportunity to travel abroad, previously our students have visited Sweden to attend a summer school where they have been challenged to design, build and test a robot.
You can showcase your final year project at our Aston Inspired exhibition which celebrates the talent of our final year students across a variety of disciplines, giving you the opportunity to interact with industry, employers and the public.
Students are encouraged to get involved with the National Conference of Biomedical Engineering, which will allow them to participate in research and public speaking.
We also have access to range of course specific student societies including Biomedical Engineering society, CAD and Formula Student.

What you will learn

Driven by the needs of industry, you will learn the key values of engineering, mathematics, and materials science. Additionally, you will gain an understanding of the medical field to allow you to apply engineering principles to the human body.

First year

In the first year, you will engage in various projects and coursework, where you will have the opportunity to design, build, and test a biomedical device. Alongside these practical projects, you will study topics including software engineering, mathematics and engineering science.

Second year

You will delve deeper into subjects like medical electronics, biomaterials, human physiology, and biofluid mechanics. At this stage, you will have the knowledge and confidence to work independently which will allow you to develop your resilience preparing you for the workplace.

Final year

You will consolidate your learning and be ready to enhance your skills within Biomedical Engineering through a range of core modules. You will work on a year long individual project where you can choose from a list of projects with support from an specialised advisor. In addition, you will have the chance to participate in peer-assisted learning, providing support and guidance to fellow students in their first and second years. This valuable experience will enable you to develop your tutoring and mentoring skills while helping your peers succeed in their academic journey

My Academic Journey

MEng Biomedical Engineering student, Ekgari Kasawala, shares her experience at Aston University

Find out more

Facilities

Following a multi-million pound investment, we are now home to an extensive biomedical engineering facility equipped with the latest technology. From an entire engineering workshop and exclusive Maker Lab, to a motion tracking suite and specialist industry standard software like Solidworks, Matlab, Labview, and more. You will have access to advanced equipment, such as imaging systems, simulation software, and biomedical instrumentation, allowing them to gain hands-on experience and conduct cutting-edge research.

Our facilities and equipment have been designed to enhance your learning and allow you to conceive, design, build, and operate medical devices prototypes, giving you the skills and knowledge needed for a rewarding career in the exciting field of biomedical engineering.

Biomedical Engineering Facilities Tour

Course objectives

Provides you with the opportunities to realise your academic potential through a range of learning experiences
Encourages, through a practical approach, you to have a passion for engineering and an enthusiasm for learning
Provides a thorough grounding in the principles and practice of Biomedical Engineering and including relevant aspects of Societal and Commercial matters
Provides an opportunity for advanced levels of study and a focus on skills and appreciation of the changing nature of engineering
Provides you with an appropriately structured curriculum, combining teaching and learning in theoretical issues with practical and digital skills training satisfying the requirements of the accrediting institution(s)
Provides an up-to-date and professionally focussed curriculum satisfying the accreditation requirements of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.

Modules

Modules and learning outcomes

Year 1 modules

In your first year you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Software Engineering	15
Human Anatomy and Physiology for Engineers	15
Biomedical Engineers Project 1	30
Electronics Engineering Fundamentals	15
Engineering Science 1	15
Materials and Manufacturing 1	15
Mathematical Modellings for Engineers	15
Total	120

Year 1 outcomes

On successful completion of the first year, you will be able to:

Have a basic theoretical knowledge of the mathematics, science and technology that underpins engineering and more in particular biomedical engineering
Have a basic knowledge of fundamental concepts, principles, methodologies and design techniques appropriate to engineering and more in particular biomedical engineering
Be able to demonstrate and apply analytical skills using a range of IT, mathematical modelling, and CAD based software
Be able to analyse and solve simple engineering and more in particular biomedical engineering problems
Be able to plan, conduct and report on a programme of work to technical and non- technical audiences using a variety of IT packages
Be able to create a solution to a design problem subject to identified constraints, evaluate the design and make improvements, using appropriate design tools and techniques
Demonstrate the ability to work in a team and use basic team and resource management and documentation techniques to achieve engineering objectives
Be able to integrate information from a variety of sources in the solution of an engineering and more in particular biomedical engineering problem
Be able to plan, execute safely, record and use appropriate tools to report a series of measurements
Be able to demonstrate basic practical workshop skills and hazard awareness in the production of simple prototype systems or components
Demonstrate knowledge of characteristics of common engineering materials, equipment, processes or products
Reflect on your learning and personal development and plan steps to improve performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD

Year 2 modules

In your second year you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Biomaterials	15
Biomechanics and Kinematics	15
Advanced Mathematical Modelling	15
Biomedical Signal Processing	15
Medical Biophysics	15
Biofluid Mechanics	15
Biomedical Engineering Project 2	30
Total	120

Year 2 outcomes

On successful completion of the second year, you will be able to:

Have a robust theoretical knowledge of mathematics, science and technologies as appropriate to areas of engineering and more in particular biomedical engineering
Have a detailed knowledge of well-established concepts, principles, methodologies and design techniques appropriate to engineering and more in particular biomedical engineering
Apply analytical skills using a range of IT, mathematical modelling in the solution of advanced or ill-formed problems
Have the ability to apply an integrated approach to solving complex engineering problems
Have an awareness of the role the engineer in society including professional skills, legal responsibilities, ethical risks, health, safety, security, and environmental responsibilities
Explore a complex design problem, identify drivers and constraints, evaluate and iterate and document the design, using professional design tools and techniques
Interact effectively within a team, recognising and addressing situations likely to lead to conflict
Be able to work with incomplete information and manage the risk arising from technical uncertainty
Have knowledge of risk issues, including health & safety, environmental and commercial risk, and of risk assessment and risk management techniques
Be able to apply advanced problem-solving skills, technical knowledge and understanding, to establish rigorous and creative solutions that are fit for purpose for all aspects of the problem including production, operation, maintenance and disposal
Be able to evaluate business, customer and user needs, including considerations such as the wider engineering and biomedical engineering context, public perception and aesthetics
Be aware of the need for a high level of professional and ethical conduct in Biomedical engineering and the relevant legal requirements governing engineering activities.

Final year modules

In your final year, you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Computational Methods in Biomedical Engineering	30
Biomedical Implants and Prosthetics	15
Medical Imaging	15
Biotechnology and Regenerative Medicine	15
Project Elective	45
Total	120

Final Year Outcomes

On successful completion of the final year, you will be able to:

Apply a systemic knowledge of mathematics, science and technology to advanced topics in biomedical engineering and related areas
Apply an in-depth knowledge of concepts, principles and analytical and computational skills to solve problems in specific areas of engineering
Integrate abstract concepts and ideas to solve complex multidisciplinary real-world problems and critically evaluate the solutions with a focus on sustainability and climate change
Demonstrate professional skills and responsibility towards legal and ethical issues
Work with incomplete information and manage the risk arising from technical uncertainty and be able to evaluate potential impact on an engineering activity
Audit a planned engineering activity, identify risk issues, including health & safety, environmental and commercial risk
Reflect on their knowledge, skills and competencies to formulate a personal development plan in line with their chosen engineering career
Plan, conduct, evaluate and report on a major individual programme of work initiated from a technical brief

Entry requirements

A Levels
BBC to include one subject from the list of accepted subjects
BCC to include two subject from the list of accepted subjects
BCC to include one subject from the list of accepted subjects and a B in Core Maths or Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
CCC to include one subject from the list of accepted subjects (contextual offer)

Accepted subjects: Maths/ Physics/ Further Maths/ Biology/ Design Technology/ Engineering Science or Electronics.

Contextual offers
Aston Ready is our contextual offer scheme that could reduce your undergraduate offer by one or two grades. Assessed at the point of application, there are no additional forms to fill in.

Contextual offer criteria

If BTEC in Engineering or related subject:

Extended Diploma or National Extended Diploma: DDM
National Diploma or Diploma: DM plus 1 A-level at a minimum Grade B.
Foundation or 90 credits Diploma (any subject): DM plus 2 A-levels at a minimum grade B
National Extended Certificate or Subsidiary Diploma: M plus 2 A-levels at a minimum Grade B
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering with an overall grade of Distinction
Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering with an overall grade of Distinction plus an A-Level in any subject grade C OR achieve overall grade Distinction plus a BTEC Sub Dip/ Extended National Cert in any subject at grade Merit
Certificate/ National Certificate Level 3: Not accepted

If BTEC in any other subjects:
Extended Diploma or National Extended Diploma: DDM and A-Level grade grade B in one subject from: Math/ Physics/ Further Maths/ Biology/ Design Technology/ Engineering Science or Electronics.
National Diploma or Diploma: DM and 1 A-level at a minimum Grade B in one A-Level subject from: Math/ Physics/ Further Maths/ Biology/ Design Technology/ Engineering Science or Electronics.
Foundation or 90 credits Diploma (any subject): DM and 2 A-levels at a minimum grade B of which one must include either: Math/ Physics/ Further Maths/ Biology/ Design Technology/ Engineering Science or Electronics.
National Extended Certificate or Subsidiary Diploma: M plus 2 A-levels at a minimum Grade B of which one must include either: Math/ Physics/ Further Maths/ Biology/ Design Technology/ Engineering Science or Electronics.
Certificate/ National Certificate Level 3: Not accepted

29 Overall; Higher Level grades 5, 5, 4 must include Physics or Maths or Design Technology). You must also have Standard Level grade 5 in both Maths and English Language.

Completion of the Access Diploma with 45 credits at Level 3. You must obtain a minimum of 30 distinctions and 15 merits at Level 3 including at least 15 credits at Level 3 in Mathematics and 15 credits at Level 3 in Physical Science subjects.

Degree

Entry in Year 1: We consider applicants for year 1 entry who are undertaking a degree elsewhere. You must meet the GCSEs and A level (or equivalent) requirements as listed. In order to be considered you will need to submit a UCAS application, as we do not accept direct applications and this must include an academic reference.

Entry in year 2: Please note that second year transfers are not part of the standard admissions process and is up the discretion of the admissions team and tutor. Applications are only considered if there is space on that year of the programme. Typically, applicants for second year entry must meet the GCSEs. Alongside this you must have gained (or be expected to gain) 60% overall and 120 credits with no fails on an equivalent programme at another recognised university. The equivalency of the programme is reviewed by the Admissions Tutor and you will be required to provide an official copy of the programme specification of this. In order to be considered you will need to submit a UCAS application as we do not accept direct applications and this must include an academic reference.

The following T Levels are accepted qualifications for this course:

Design and Development for Engineering Manufacturing Grade D
Engineering Manufacturing Processing and Control Grade D
Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering Manufacturing Grade D

Additionally to our Level 3 requirement, you will also need to have achieved:

GCSE Maths Grade C/4 and English Grade C/4 and above.

International students

Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students on many of our undergraduate programmes. Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year. Based in the centre of Birmingham, Aston is not only a great place to study, it’s also a great place to live.

Qualifications in your country

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification.

English language requirements

International students can enter at Year 2 of this course having completed an undergraduate year one programme at the required academic level with approved teaching partners ONCAMPUS Aston or NCUK.

Aston University provides a range of opportunities for international students to join our community and study on our campus. A key part of our strategy is our relationships with teaching partners, providing multiple pathways to Aston.

Aston’s professional work placements can improve your chance of securing a graduate job. Placements give you experience, confidence and opportunities and, as an Aston student, you’ll be better prepared for your future career. One of the great things about Aston is our focus on employability. Our close links with businesses, industries and professions make this possible.

Find out more about applying

Post-study work visa

Aston University welcomed the creation of a new Graduate Immigration Route which enables international students to remain in the UK for two years after you complete your studies to find work. This new post-study work visa applies to international students completing full-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Graduate Immigration Route

Fees and scholarships

Course fees

UK students
(2024/25)

Annual tuition fees:

£9,250

International students
(2024/25)

Annual tuition fees:

£21,100

More information on fees

The United Kingdom government has confirmed that European Union (EU), other European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss nationals commencing academic courses in England from August 2021 will no longer be charged the same tuition rates as UK students.

Tuition fees for students are reviewed annually and may increase in subsequent years in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI) to take account of the University’s increased costs of delivering the Programme. Any such increase shall always be in accordance with the law. When undertaking a placement year, a placement year fee applies.

Scholarships

At Aston University we are committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.

Explore our scholarships

Assessment

We offer an supportive and inclusive learning environment. Or academics are dedicated to providing quality teaching for you to have a positive and engaging academic experience. Assessments are linked to learning outcomes and we use a wide range of methods including exams, essay, reports, presentations, project work and computer based assessment.

You will also take part in a mix of individual and group work to allow innovation, entrepreneurship and leadership skills to be developed.

Career prospects

You will graduate with the expertise and skills which will lead to a wide range of rewarding career opportunities in the field of healthcare, medical technology and research working alongside doctors, therapist and researchers as well as supporting clinical staff.

Previous graduates have gone on to successful roles such as clinical engineers, medical device design engineers, project managers and regulatory associates for leading companies including Microsoft, NHS, Oxford Biomedica and JEB Technology. Some of our students have developed an interest in research by obtaining their PhD’s in areas of Biomaterials, Biomedical Images and Biomedical Robotics alongside others.

Be part of our community

Once you have joined us at Aston University, you’ll always be part of our community, even beyond graduation.

Alumni Services

Frequently Asked Questions

Is accreditation important?

Yes. Accredited engineering degrees offer students, their parents and advisors, and employers a mark of assurance that the degree programme meets the standards expected by the engineering profession. Accredited degrees also give confidence that the underpinning knowledge, understanding and skills for registration with a professional engineering institution have been met.

Both our BEng and MEng programmes are accredited by the IMechE (Institution of Mechanical Engineers). The MEng course also meets the academic requirement in full for Chartered Engineer registration.

Will I gain real world biomedical engineering experience?

Yes! We believe that it’s really important to give you access to a wide range of opportunities to enhance your learning. While on the Biomedical Engineering course at Aston, you’ll get the opportunity to visit clinical settings and manufacturers, designed to inspire your sense of innovation and entrepreneurship.

If you opt to undertake the MEng Year, you’ll spend it on an internship, work placement or in employment. During that time, you’ll take modules via distance learning, and learn via narrated lectures and reflective coursework, applying what you learn to your real-life work. You’ll be responsible for finding your own internship, but you’ll be fully supported by the University’s Careers and Placements team; who have close links with a wide range of industry partners.

Is Birmingham a good place to study?

Our campus is based in the centre of Birmingham, the youngest major city in Europe and a great place to live, work and study.

Great music and entertainment with a vibrant nightlife. Bars, clubs, pubs, live music, festivals, concerts. Whatever your tastes, there's something here for everyone.
Fantastic food. Birmingham's diverse community means you can try anything from the famous Balti triangle, the Chinese Quarter, high street chains, halal and vegan food, and Michelin-star dining.
World-class shopping. The Bullring and Grand Central is a shopper's paradise. From the world's biggest Primark to luxury brands at the Mailbox.
Arts and culture. Museums, galleries, theatres, concerts and Birmingham's art collection is as wide as it is impressive - not to be missed.
Green, open spaces. One of the greenest cities in Europe, Birmingham has hundreds of publicly accessible parks and green spaces across the city.
Sporting action. Birmingham has some of the most exciting venues for watching or participating in sport in the UK.

Discover Birmingham