Biomedical Engineering MEng (Hons)

Course overview

This IMechE-accredited degree equips the future generation of biomedical engineers with essential practical skills, knowledge, and experience to drive innovation in medical technology. You will develop expertise in designing medical devices, diagnostic tools, prosthetics, and therapies.

With strong connections to both UK and international industries, as well as access to state-of-the-art facilities, students are prepared for a successful career in transforming healthcare. Our faculty members actively participate in the field, fostering collaborations with hospitals, industry consortia, and medical device forums. This provides students with opportunities to engage with over 100 companies, gaining first-hand experience in developing real-world healthcare solutions within 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

MEng (Hons) Biomedical Engineering

Aston University's MEng Biomedical Engineering degree offers a unique combination of practical application, theoretical study, and strong industry connections. By adopting an interdisciplinary approach that integrates engineering, biology, and medicine, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the field and are well-equipped for a successful career in biomedical engineering.

What we will provide
With a curriculum designed to be diverse and industry-focused, alongside our established reputation and close industry connections, our degree will empower you with the necessary skills to drive healthcare innovations. You will learn in state-of-the-art facilities, gaining valuable hands-on experience with the latest technologies used in the field. This practical exposure ensures that you are well-prepared to make a meaningful impact in the ever-evolving field of healthcare.

What you will provide
A strong passion for engineering, biology, and medicine is crucial, as well as the resilience and determination to overcome challenges and find solutions. You will need to have basic knowledge in topics such as calculus, physics, chemistry, and biology to understand the fundamental principles of biomedical engineering. It is key that you demonstrate an understanding of these subjects as this will enable you to effectively apply your knowledge and skills to advance within the sector.

What skills we teach
The MEng will introduce you to the core principles of biomedical engineering, with a specific emphasis on topics such as biomechanics and biofluid mechanics to help understand the human body and its interactions with technology. We are committed to nurturing your transferable skills, including leadership, problem-solving, teamwork, and resilience. Through industry-led practical workshops and laboratories, you will have opportunities to develop these skills. We will help you enhance your communication skills through professional training and public speaking opportunities, ensuring you are well-prepared to effectively communicate your ideas and findings in a professional setting.

MEng year
Opting for the MEng Year provides you with the opportunity to secure a valuable industry placement, enriching your specialised knowledge and professional development. This experience will give you a competitive edge as you prepare for a career in biomedical engineering.The MEng Year incorporates distance learning modules, narrated lectures, and reflective coursework, allowing you to apply your learning to real-world work scenarios. To be eligible for the MEng program, you must have achieved an average mark of at least 50% in your third year of the program.

Career prospects
Our previous graduates have achieved success in various roles, such as clinical engineers, medical device design engineers, project managers, and regulatory associates. They have secured positions with renowned companies, including Microsoft, NHS, Oxford Biomedica, and JEB Technology. Moreover, some of our students have pursued their passion for research by obtaining PhDs in areas such as Biomaterials, Biomedical Imaging, and Biomedical Robotics, among others.

How you will learn

The MEng focuses on interactive learning through a variety of engaging methods, including hands-on practical sessions, lectures, tutorials, seminars, lab classes, and interactive workshops. These diverse teaching approaches ensure that you graduate with industry-ready skills.

To enhance your learning experience, we regularly host guest lectures, arrange industry visits, and collaborate with healthcare organisations and medical device manufacturers. These initiatives offer valuable insights into the practical aspects of biomedical engineering and expose you to 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

The degree is guided by industry and focuses on instilling the core principles of engineering, mathematics, and materials science. Alongside these foundational subjects, you will develop a understanding of the medical field. This knowledge will enable you to effectively apply engineering principles to the complexities of the human body.

First year

During your first year, you will engage in various projects and coursework, where you will have the opportunity to design, build, and test a biomedical device, honing your practical skills in the field. In parallel with these practical projects, you will also delve into important subjects such as software engineering, mathematics, and engineering science, further expanding your knowledge.

Second year

You will explore advanced topics including medical electronics, biomaterials, human physiology, and biofluid mechanics. As you progress, you will gain the knowledge and independence required to work confidently, further developing your resilience to work in industry.

Third year

In your third year, you will expand your expertise in Biomedical Engineering, with a range of core modules, such as medical imaging and kinematic prosthetics. At this stage you will also work on a year-long individual project, choosing from a range of project options and dedicated support from your tutor. You will also have the opportunity to engage in peer-assisted learning, where you will provide guidance and support to students in their first and second years. This experience will not only contribute to your own academic growth but also allow you to develop valuable tutoring and mentoring skills.

Final year

In your final year, you will apply what you learn to real-life scenarios while working in the biomedical engineering industry on an internship, work placement or on a project with an academic at Aston University. Modules are delivered via distance learning, via online narrated lectures and reflective coursework. These, combined with a major research and design project, enable our MEng students to tailor their learning, try new subject areas and enhance their practical skills. On the completion of the major research and design project you will be able to synthesise ideas and generate novel solutions, develop and conduct research in a professional manner with good time and project management skills, record, critically analyse and discuss the results of a research project, and, report research findings in written and verbal formats.

My Academic Journey

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

Find out more

Facilities

After a significant investment, we are proud to offer a state-of-the-art biomedical engineering facility, equipped with the latest technology. Our range of resources includes an engineering workshop, a dedicated Maker Lab, a motion tracking suite, and 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, facilitating hands-on experience and cutting-edge research opportunities. These purpose-built facilities are designed to enhance your learning experience and empower you to conceptualize, design, build, and operate prototypes of medical devices.

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
Offers students the opportunity to obtain relevant industrial experience by providing the option of working in industry while completing the Masters level modules
Produces capable graduate engineers who are highly valued by employers
Produces masters level graduates who have advanced knowledge and skills to afford them the best opportunity to become engineering leaders.

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 3 modules

In your third 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

Final year modules

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

Module Title	Credits
Clinical Trials and Research Design	15
Medical Devices Regulations	15
Medical Robotics	15
Neural Engineering	15
Research and Design Project Portfolio	60
Total	120

Final Year Outcomes

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

Apply a comprehensive knowledge of mathematics, science, technology, mathematical and computational modelling techniques to advanced topics in biomedical engineering and related areas
Integrate knowledge from a range of areas, within and beyond engineering, and critically evaluate and apply that knowledge in biomedical engineering projects
Apply quantitative and computational methods with knowledge of their limitations, extract and evaluate data, and apply engineering analysis techniques in the solution of unfamiliar problems
Demonstrate a wide knowledge of design processes and methodologies and use them to generate innovative designs for products, systems and components to fulfil new needs
Demonstrate professional skills and responsibility towards legal and ethical issues, an awareness of the legal requirements governing biomedical engineering activities, and that they may differ internationally
Ability to identify the key drivers for business success, including innovation, calculated commercial risks, and how these can be managed within a biomedical engineering project
Evaluate a biomedical engineering activity, identify risk issues, including health & safety, environmental and commercial risk
Gain an extensive knowledge of the characteristics of equipment, processes or products for a wide range of biomedical engineering materials and components, and awareness of using technical literature and other sources to expand this knowledge
Have a thorough knowledge of current design and biomedical engineering practice, its limitations, and likely new developments
Work effectively within a biomedical engineering team, exercising initiative and personal responsibility, which may be as a team member or leader.

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 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.

*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 Maths.
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

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

Our learning environment fosters support and inclusivity, ensuring that you have a positive and engaging academic experience. Our dedicated academics are committed to delivering high-quality teaching, enabling you to thrive in your studies.

Assessments are carefully aligned with learning outcomes and encompass a variety of methods, including exams, essays, reports, presentations, project work, and computer-based assessments. Additionally, a combination of individual and group work allows for the development of innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership skills, encouraging a well-rounded educational journey.

Career prospects

Upon graduation, you will possess the expertise and skills that open doors to a diverse range of fulfilling career opportunities in healthcare, medical technology, and research. You will have the chance to work alongside doctors, therapists, researchers, and clinical staff, contributing to the advancement of these fields.

Our previous graduates have achieved success in various roles, such as clinical engineers, medical device design engineers, project managers, and regulatory associates. They have secured positions with renowned companies, including Microsoft, NHS, Oxford Biomedica, and JEB Technology. Moreover, some of our students have pursued their passion for research by obtaining PhDs in areas such as Biomaterials, Biomedical Imaging, and Biomedical Robotics, among 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