Biomedical Engineering

Course overview

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?

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

Ranked 24th in the world

Aston University is ranked 24th in the world for reducing inequalities

Top 10% in the world

Aston University placed in the top 10% of all 5,663 institutions evaluated

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.

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
Provides an up-to-date and professionally focussed curriculum

Modules

Modules and learning outcomes

Year 1 modules

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

Module Title	Credits
Introductory Mathematics for Engineering, Digital, and Physical Sciences	15
Introductory Programming for Engineering and Physical Sciences	15
Engineering Science 1	30
Electronics 1	15
Materials and Manufacturing 1	15
Human Anatomy and Physiology for Engineers	15
Power Skills	15
Interdisciplinary Design Project	15
Total	120

Year 1 outcomes

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

Demonstrate a basic theoretical knowledge of the mathematics, science and technology that underpins biomedical engineering
Demonstrate a basic knowledge of fundamental concepts, principles, methodologies and design techniques appropriate to biomedical engineering
Apply knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science, programming, and engineering principles to solve engineering problems
Be able to analyse and solve simple engineering and more in particular biomedical engineering problems
Plan, conduct and report on a programme of work to technical and non-technical audiences using a variety of IT packages.
Create a solution as part of (interdisciplinary) teams to a design problem subject to identified constraints, evaluate the design and make improvements, using appropriate design tools and techniques
Demonstrate the ability to contribute effectively in (interdisciplinary) teams and use basic team and resource management and documentation techniques to achieve engineering objectives
Use information from a variety of sources in the solution of an engineering problem
Evaluate and interpret data using industry-standard methods and communicate information effectively to ensure data-driven approaches to decision-making in solving complex problems
Use sustainable development strategies that reflect a deep understanding of the Circular Economy, Net-Zero strategies, Design and Systems Thinking, and Global Social Responsibility and lead to solutions that are ethically sound and globally relevant
Employ integrated problem-solving skills to analyse challenging and multifaceted problems considering professional, social, and ethical contexts.

Year 2 modules

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

Module Title	Credits
Biomaterials	15
Advanced Mathematical Modelling	15
Biomedical Signal Processing	15
Medical Biophysics	15
Biofluid Mechanics	15
Biomechanics and Kinematics	15
Integrated Design Project	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
Demonstrate 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.

Placement year modules

If you opt for an integrated placement year, you will spend your third year on placement. You will be fully supported throughout the process by our award-winning Careers and Placements team.

Placement Year

Module Title	Credits
EPS Placement Year	120

Placement year outcomes

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

Develop an understanding of business and the relevant commercial environment and/or intercultural study and their role within it.
Gain knowledge of key aspects of good practice relevant to industry and/or intercultural study context.
Develop new knowledge and understanding appropriate to the industrial, business, study or research sector related to degree programme.
Communicate effectively in a variety of ways in a professional and industrial environment and/or in an intercultural study context.

Final year modules

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

Module Title	Credits
Medical Imaging	15
Biomedical Implants and Prosthetics	15
Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for Biomedical Engineers	15
Computational Fluid Mechanics (CFD) for Biomedical Engineers	15
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence and Robotics	15
Professional Engineering Practice	15
Engineering Major Project	30
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

We may update our courses to reflect best practices and academic developments. If we do, we’ll let you know of any changes at the earliest opportunity by updating our course webpages. If you have already received an offer, we’ll write to you directly to let you know of the changes.

Entry requirements

A Levels
BBC when including two STEM* subjects
BCC when including two STEM* subjects (with an EPQ or Core Maths* at grade B)
CCC when including two STEM* subjects (contextual offer)

List of STEM (b) subjects: Maths, Further Maths, Statistics, Physics, Design Technology, Chemistry, Engineering Science, Computer Science, Biology and Electronics.

*List of core maths qualifications we accept: AQA Certificate in Mathematical Studies, City & Guilds Certificate in Using and Applying Mathematics, NCFE Level 3 Certificate in Mathematics for Everyday Life, OCR (MEI)* Certificate in Quantitative Problem Solving, OCR (MEI)* Certificate in Quantitative Reasoning, Pearson Edexcel Certificate in Mathematics in Context, WJEC Eduqas Certificate in Mathematics for Work and Life and Level 3 Core Math.

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 is in Engineering:

Extended Diploma or National Extended Diploma (RQF): DDM, including Distinction grades in Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics units.
Extended Diploma or National Extended Diploma (QCF): DDM including Distinction grades in Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians units.
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 B in Maths.
National Diploma or Diploma: DM and 1 A-level at a minimum Grade B in Maths.
Foundation or 90 credits Diploma (any subject): DM and 2 A-levels at a minimum grade B of which one must be Maths.
National Extended Certificate or Subsidiary Diploma: M plus 2 A-levels at a minimum Grade B of which one must be Maths.
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.

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.

Non-standard qualifications

Degree

Year 1 entry: We may consider applicants for year 1 entry who are undertaking a 1st year degree elsewhere. You must meet the GCSEs and A level (or equivalent Level 3) 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 from your current institution.

Year 2 entry: Please note that second-year transfers are not part of the standard admissions process and is up to the discretion of the admissions team and tutor. Applications are only considered if there is space in that year of the programme.
Typically, applicants for second-year entry must meet the GCSEs and A level (or equivalent) requirements as listed. Alongside this you must have successfully passed (or be expected to pass) your first year with 120 credits on an equivalent programme at another recognised university with very similar module content.

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 from your current institution.

Year 3: We will not be able to consider any application for Year 3.

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

Fees listed are for 2024 entry. For Sandwich courses the placement fee is £1250 for Home/UK students and £2,500 for International students. For Home students: Tuition fees for UK/Home students may change in line with government policy. When undertaking a placement year, a placement year fee applies. For International students: The International students fee is a fixed annual fee for the duration of the Programme, except whilst on placement when a placement year fee applies.

More information on fees

For Home students: Tuition fees for UK/Home students may change in line with government policy.

For International students: The International students fee is a fixed annual fee for the duration of the Programme, except whilst on placement when 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 Biomedic, BAE Systems 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

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

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Find your course

Biomedical Engineering

Course overview

Why Biomedical Engineering at Aston University?

Course description

BEng Biomedical Engineering

How you will learn

My Academic Journey

Facilities

Course objectives

Modules