Biomedical Engineering Programs in Des Moines, Iowa
Getting a Biomedical Engineering Degree in Des Moines, Iowa
Biomedical Engineering is an interdisciplinary field that applies engineering principles to healthcare and medicine. Professionals in this field work on innovations like medical devices, imaging systems, and tissue engineering. Earning a Biomedical Engineering degree can lead to a rewarding career at the intersection of technology and human health. For residents of Des Moines, Iowa, and the surrounding area, there are several educational and career opportunities to explore.
This guide provides insights into the Biomedical Engineering programs available near Des Moines, prerequisites for admission, and local career prospects.
About Des Moines
Des Moines, the capital city of Iowa, is located in Polk County and serves as a hub for education, healthcare, and business. Known for its vibrant downtown area, cultural attractions, and historic East Village, Des Moines offers a supportive environment for students pursuing higher education. The city’s official website, dsm.city, provides valuable resources for residents and visitors.
Biomedical Engineering Programs in Des Moines, Iowa
While Des Moines itself does not offer a dedicated Biomedical Engineering program, nearby options provide robust educational opportunities. Below are institutions offering programs in Biomedical Engineering within a reasonable distance from Des Moines:
University of Iowa (Iowa City, IA)
- Program Offered: Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE) in Biomedical Engineering, Master of Science (MS) in Biomedical Engineering, and combined BSE/MS programs.
- Distance from Des Moines: Approximately 115 miles (about a 2-hour drive).
- Program Highlights: Specializations in bioimaging, biomechanics, biomaterials, cellular engineering, and cardiopulmonary systems. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration with the University of Iowa’s College of Medicine.
- Website: University of Iowa Biomedical Engineering
Iowa State University (Ames, IA)
- Program Offered: Biomedical Engineering minor through the College of Engineering, with options to integrate biomedical coursework into other engineering disciplines.
- Distance from Des Moines: 30 miles (about a 35-minute drive).
- Program Highlights: Focus on combining engineering expertise with health sciences, offering research opportunities in biomedical applications throughout various engineering majors.
- Website: Iowa State University Biomedical Engineering
Des Moines University (Des Moines, IA)
- Program Offered: Master of Biomedical Sciences (MBS).
- Program Highlights: Aimed at students seeking advanced knowledge in biomedical sciences, this program can serve as a foundation for further studies or a career in health-related industries.
- Website: Des Moines University MBS Program
Biomedical Engineering Career Opportunities in Des Moines
Des Moines offers promising career opportunities for Biomedical Engineering graduates. Some notable employers in the area include:
Athena GTX, Inc.
- Location: Near downtown Des Moines.
- Specialization: Designs and manufactures portable medical devices for military and civilian use.
- Website: Athena GTX Careers
Des Moines University
- Location: Central Des Moines.
- Specialization: Research in biomedical sciences and healthcare innovation.
- Website: Des Moines University Careers
UnityPoint Health
- Location: Various locations in Des Moines.
- Specialization: A leading healthcare provider in Iowa, offering opportunities for Biomedical Engineers in clinical and technical roles.
- Website: UnityPoint Health Careers
These organizations represent just a fraction of the opportunities available to Biomedical Engineering professionals in Des Moines and surrounding areas.
Prerequisites for Biomedical Engineering Programs
To enroll in a Biomedical Engineering program, students generally need to meet the following requirements:
- Education: A high school diploma or equivalent with strong performance in math and science courses.
- Minimum GPA: Varies by institution but often requires a GPA of 3.0 or higher for competitive programs.
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT scores are typically required for undergraduate programs, while GRE scores may be needed for graduate programs.
- Prerequisite Courses: Mathematics (calculus), physics, biology, and chemistry are commonly required.
Specific requirements for programs at the University of Iowa and Iowa State University can be found on their respective websites.
Accreditation and Professional Organizations
Choosing an accredited program is critical to ensuring a high-quality education that meets industry standards. The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) accredits most reputable Biomedical Engineering programs. Prospective students can verify accreditation status via the ABET website.
Additionally, students and professionals can benefit from joining organizations such as:
- Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES): BMES Website
- American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE): AIMBE Website
These organizations offer networking opportunities, access to research publications, and professional development resources.
Get Started Today
Pursuing a Biomedical Engineering degree is a significant step toward a dynamic and impactful career. Whether you choose a bachelor’s, master’s, or combined program, the opportunities in Des Moines and nearby cities provide a strong foundation for success. Contact the schools listed above to begin your journey today.