Biomedical engineering is a dynamic and growing field based upon the application of the tools of engineering to the subject matter of biology and medicine. The undergraduate program in biomedical engineering is an independent concentration structured as a joint program between the Division of Biology and Medicine and the Division of Engineering. In this sense, the program has a different structure and course requirements than the tracks in other engineering disciplines. The program is managed under the umbrella of the Center for Biomedical Engineering. Students thus have access to the strong teaching and research programs of both Divisions as well as to a number of courses and research-programs existing at the interface between the two Divisions as well as Brown’s affiliated hospitals. Biomedical engineering at Brown is a unique and distinctive interdisciplinary vocation. Students must master much of the essential materials of two disciplines and be comfortable in two worlds which utilize diverse tools in different ways to produce exciting results. Although considerable effort is required, the subject is truly fascinating and most students react to the field and its rigors and challenges with enthusiasm.
The educational objectives of biomedical engineering are three fold.
1. To prepare students for careers of useful service to society.
2. To engage committed scholars in the productive application of the tools of engineering to the subject matter of biology and medicine across the spectrum of research and teaching.
3. To provide opportunities for teamwork, open ended problem-solving and critical thinking.
The program's primary emphasis is on the fundamentals of biomedical engineering, but also allows students to personalize their curriculum. This exciting curriculum prepares students for careers in biomedical engineering and biotechnology, as well as careers in diverse areas such as medicine, law, business, and health care delivery. BME students learn to apply the principles of engineering and science, along with problem solving skills and critical thinking to a broad spectrum of problems in biomedical engineering. Further, BME is a sound foundation for life long education with its emphasis on the use of teamwork, effective communication skills and an understanding of broad social, ethical, economic and environmental consequences.