Additional information

body or mind	Body
Field	Medical Field
Boss or Team	Team
Communication	Not a good communicator
Work With	People
Math & Science	Maths & Science
Study Length	Prepared to Study for Years
Environment	Alone

Biomedical Engineer

In a nutshell, biomedical engineers use the principles and problem-solving techniques of engineering in the fields of biology and medicine. Biomedical engineers have been responsible for the development of things like stem cell engineering, implantable medical devices, pacemakers, prosthetic limbs, hip replacements, dental implants and so much more!

This is a career where your work and discoveries could enhance, improve and change the lives of thousands of people worldwide!

In this field, various aspects of engineering (like mechanical, electrical, chemical engineering and computer science) are applied to the medical field combined with human biology in their quest to improve human health.

How to Become a Biomedical Engineer in South Africa

Get the Required Qualifications

The required qualifications to become a biomedical engineer can vary depending on the specific career path you wish to take; however, you will typically need the following to be a biomedical engineer in South Africa:

Certificate (National Senior Certificate or NC(v))
Bachelor’s Degree (Bachelor of Engineering Science)
Postgraduate Degree: (Honours, Masters and Doctorate)

Demonstrate Competence in the Required Subjects

Different educational institutions may have different admission requirements; however, you will typically be required to demonstrate competency in the following subjects:

Accumulate Years of Relevant Study and Experience

Biomedical engineers in South Africa typically study for more than 4 years.

Find Relevant Employment Opportunities

There are plenty of employment opportunities for biomedical engineers in South Africa who often work in the following places:

Hospitals
Medical research institutes
Universities that specialise in this field
The medical electronics industry

Some biomedical engineers are self-employed if they have the necessary experience to set up a business to design and manufacture devices. They can also set up a consultancy business.

Find More Information from Relevant Regulatory Bodies

To find more information about biomedical engineers, contact the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA).