Biomedical Engineering Programs in Portland, Oregon

Getting a Biomedical Engineering Degree in Portland, Oregon

Pursuing a Biomedical Engineering degree in Portland, Oregon, provides an excellent opportunity to combine cutting-edge technology with healthcare innovation. Biomedical Engineering is an interdisciplinary field that integrates engineering principles with biological and medical sciences to design and develop solutions for healthcare challenges. Whether you are interested in crafting medical devices, advancing tissue engineering, or exploring biomechanics, Portland offers a range of educational and career pathways to help you achieve your goals.

About Portland, Oregon

Portland, the largest city in Oregon, is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, lush green spaces, and thriving tech and healthcare industries. Located in Multnomah County, Portland is home to a diverse population and a strong focus on sustainability and innovation. The city’s official website, www.portlandoregon.gov, provides additional information about its neighborhoods, educational resources, and local attractions, such as the Oregon Zoo and Forest Park.

Biomedical Engineering Programs in Portland, Oregon

Portland and its surrounding areas offer several options for pursuing a Biomedical Engineering degree. Below are some of the top programs available:

1. Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU)

   • Program: Department of Biomedical Engineering
   • Location: South Waterfront neighborhood, Portland, OR
   • Description: OHSU offers graduate-level programs, including Master’s and Ph.D. degrees in Biomedical Engineering. The curriculum emphasizes research in areas such as medical imaging, tissue engineering, and biomechanics.
   • Website: OHSU Biomedical Engineering

2. Portland State University (PSU)

   • Program: Biomedical Engineering minor through the Maseeh College of Engineering and Computer Science
   • Location: Downtown Portland
   • Description: PSU provides undergraduate students the opportunity to pursue a minor in Biomedical Engineering, with courses in bioinstrumentation, biomaterials, and biomechanics.
   • Website: PSU Biomedical Engineering

3. Oregon State University (OSU)

   • Program: School of Chemical, Biological, and Environmental Engineering
   • Location: Corvallis, OR (approximately 85 miles south of Portland)
   • Description: OSU offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. degrees in Bioengineering, with specializations in areas such as systems biology, medical device design, and regenerative medicine.
   • Website: OSU Bioengineering

If you are unable to find a program that suits your needs within Portland, Oregon State University is an excellent nearby option.

Biomedical Engineering Career Opportunities in Portland

Portland is a hub for healthcare innovation and technology, offering numerous career opportunities for Biomedical Engineering graduates. Below are some prominent employers in the area:

1. Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU)

   • Location: South Waterfront neighborhood
   • Description: As one of the largest healthcare and research institutions in the region, OHSU employs biomedical engineers in research, clinical, and product development roles.
   • Website: OHSU Careers

2. Legacy Health

   • Location: Multiple locations across the Portland metro area
   • Description: Legacy Health is a nonprofit healthcare system that offers roles in medical technology development and clinical engineering.
   • Website: Legacy Health Careers

3. Medtronic

   • Location: Northeast Portland
   • Description: Medtronic is a global leader in medical device manufacturing, with opportunities for biomedical engineers in product design and development.
   • Website: Medtronic Careers

Prerequisites for Biomedical Engineering Programs

To enroll in a Biomedical Engineering program, you will typically need to meet the following prerequisites:

• Undergraduate Programs:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • SAT or ACT scores
  • Coursework in advanced math (e.g., calculus), biology, chemistry, and physics

• Graduate Programs:

  • Bachelor’s degree in a related field
  • GRE scores (varies by institution)
  • Prerequisite courses in biomedical engineering principles, materials science, and product design

Accreditation and Professional Organizations

Accreditation is a vital consideration when selecting a Biomedical Engineering program. Look for programs accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) to ensure they meet industry standards.

Professional organizations like the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) (www.bmes.org) and the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE) (www.aimbe.org) offer networking opportunities, professional development resources, and access to industry events.

Get Started Today

Earning a Biomedical Engineering degree in Portland, Oregon, opens the door to an exciting and impactful career in healthcare technology. By exploring local programs, meeting admission requirements, and connecting with professional organizations, you can take the first steps toward a rewarding future. Contact a school today to learn more about their application process and begin your journey into Biomedical Engineering.