Biomedical Engineering Programs in Tampa, Florida
Getting a Biomedical Engineering Degree in Tampa, Florida
Biomedical Engineering is a dynamic and growing field that merges engineering principles with biological and medical sciences to improve healthcare outcomes. Earning a Biomedical Engineering Degree equips students with the knowledge and skills to design medical devices, develop innovative treatments, and contribute to cutting-edge research. Tampa, Florida, offers excellent opportunities for aspiring biomedical engineers to pursue their education and establish a career in this exciting field.
This guide explores the educational paths, local programs, and career opportunities available in Tampa for individuals considering a Biomedical Engineering Degree.
About Tampa, Florida
Tampa, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is a vibrant city known for its cultural diversity, beautiful waterfront views, and thriving economic landscape. As the largest city in Hillsborough County, Tampa is home to a variety of higher education institutions, healthcare facilities, and research centers that make it an ideal location for pursuing a Biomedical Engineering Degree.
For more information about Tampa, visit the City of Tampa’s official website.
Biomedical Engineering Programs in Tampa, Florida
Tampa is home to prominent educational institutions offering Biomedical Engineering programs. Below are the top options for pursuing a degree in this field:
University of South Florida (USF)
- Location: Tampa, FL
- Program: Department of Medical Engineering
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Master of Science (M.S.), Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
- Description: USF offers comprehensive Biomedical Engineering programs with a focus on interdisciplinary research, including biomechanics, tissue engineering, and medical imaging. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and strong industry partnerships.
- Website: USF Biomedical Engineering
Florida Polytechnic University
- Location: Lakeland, FL (Approximately 35 miles from Tampa)
- Program: Biomedical Engineering Concentration within Engineering Programs
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
- Description: Florida Poly provides a modern curriculum with a focus on innovation and applied learning in areas like bioinformatics, prosthetics, and medical device design.
- Website: Florida Poly Biomedical Engineering
University of Florida (UF)
- Location: Gainesville, FL (Approximately 130 miles from Tampa)
- Program: J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering
- Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D.
- Description: UF is renowned for its research-driven Biomedical Engineering programs, offering specializations in neural engineering, regenerative medicine, and nanomedicine.
- Website: UF Biomedical Engineering
Biomedical Engineering Career Opportunities in Tampa
Tampa is a burgeoning hub for biomedical innovation, with numerous healthcare facilities, research centers, and medical device companies employing biomedical engineers. Here are some key employers in the area:
Moffitt Cancer Center
- Location: Tampa, FL
- Description: A leading cancer treatment and research facility, Moffitt is known for its advanced medical technologies and collaborative research environment.
- Website: Moffitt Careers
Tampa General Hospital
- Location: Davis Islands, Tampa, FL
- Description: As one of Florida’s largest hospitals, Tampa General Hospital offers a range of opportunities for biomedical engineers, particularly in medical device implementation and healthcare technology.
- Website: Tampa General Careers
Bausch + Lomb
- Location: Clearwater, FL (Approximately 25 miles from Tampa)
- Description: A global leader in eye health, Bausch + Lomb specializes in medical devices like contact lenses and surgical instruments, providing opportunities for biomedical engineers.
- Website: Bausch + Lomb Careers
Prerequisites for Biomedical Engineering Programs
To enroll in a Biomedical Engineering program, students typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
Undergraduate Programs:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- SAT or ACT scores
- Strong foundation in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology
Graduate Programs:
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, biology, or a related field
- GRE scores
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- English proficiency tests (for international students)
Accreditation and Professional Organizations
When selecting a Biomedical Engineering program, it is crucial to choose an institution accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) or the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Accreditation ensures the quality of the program and its alignment with industry standards.
Students and professionals can also benefit from joining organizations like the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) and the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE). These organizations provide resources, networking opportunities, and professional development for members.
Get Started Today
Pursuing a Biomedical Engineering Degree in Tampa, Florida, offers a rewarding pathway to a career that combines innovation and healthcare. Whether you aim to design life-saving technologies, conduct groundbreaking research, or improve patient care, Tampa’s educational and professional landscape provides the foundation for success.
Explore local universities, review program requirements, and take the first step toward your future in Biomedical Engineering today!