Biomedical Engineering Programs in Tacoma, Washington

Getting a Biomedical Engineering Degree in Tacoma, Washington

Biomedical Engineering is an exciting and innovative field at the intersection of engineering, biology, and medicine. Professionals in this area design and develop medical devices, imaging systems, and other technologies that improve healthcare. If you’re considering pursuing a Biomedical Engineering Degree in Tacoma, Washington, this guide will provide you with essential information about local programs, career opportunities, and resources.

About Tacoma

Situated in Pierce County, Tacoma is a vibrant city in Washington state known for its scenic waterfront, cultural attractions, and thriving healthcare and technology sectors. As the third-largest city in the state, Tacoma offers a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. The city is home to iconic landmarks like the Museum of Glass, Point Defiance Park, and Tacoma Dome. Learn more about Tacoma by visiting its official website at cityoftacoma.org.

Biomedical Engineering Programs in Tacoma, Washington

While Tacoma does not currently have universities offering full Biomedical Engineering programs, there are excellent options within driving distance. Below is a list of institutions offering Biomedical Engineering degrees and their proximity to Tacoma.

1. University of Washington (Seattle, WA)

• Location: Seattle, approximately 40 miles north of Tacoma
• Program Offered: Bachelor of Science in Bioengineering, Master of Science in Bioengineering, Doctor of Philosophy in Bioengineering
• Overview: The University of Washington (UW) is a globally recognized institution with a robust Biomedical Engineering program. Students gain hands-on experience through interdisciplinary research opportunities and collaborations with UW Medical Center.
• Website: admit.washington.edu/majors/bioengineering

2. Washington State University (Pullman, WA)

• Location: Pullman, approximately 300 miles southeast of Tacoma
• Program Offered: Bachelor’s in Bioengineering
• Overview: Washington State University (WSU) combines a strong focus on engineering principles with applications in healthcare. The program emphasizes research and practical training.
• Website: wsu.edu

3. Seattle University (Seattle, WA)

• Location: Seattle, approximately 35 miles north of Tacoma
• Program Offered: Pre-engineering programs with pathways to Biomedical Engineering
• Overview: Seattle University offers foundational engineering courses and partnerships with nearby universities for specialized Biomedical Engineering training.
• Website: seattleu.edu

Biomedical Engineering Career Opportunities in Tacoma

Tacoma and the surrounding areas provide numerous career opportunities for biomedical engineers. Here are some prominent employers:

1. MultiCare Health System

• Location: Downtown Tacoma
• Overview: MultiCare is a leading healthcare organization in the region, employing biomedical engineers in medical technology development and equipment maintenance.
• Website: multicare.org/careers

2. Allen Institute for Brain Science (Seattle, WA)

• Location: Seattle, approximately 40 miles north
• Overview: This nonprofit research institute focuses on neuroscience and biomedical research, offering roles in imaging technology and biomedical data analysis.
• Website: alleninstitute.org

3. Zeno Imaging (Tacoma, WA)

• Location: Tacoma
• Overview: Zeno Imaging specializes in imaging technologies and employs professionals in biomedical imaging and device development.
• Website: zenoimaging.com

Prerequisites for Biomedical Engineering Programs

Admission to Biomedical Engineering programs typically requires meeting specific academic prerequisites. These may include:

• General Academic Requirements:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • SAT or ACT scores
  • Minimum GPA (varies by program)
• Course Prerequisites:
  • Advanced math (e.g., calculus)
  • Physics
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
• Graduate Programs:
  • Bachelor’s degree in a related field
  • GRE scores (for most master’s and doctoral programs)

For detailed information on admissions, consult the program pages of the universities listed above.

Accreditation and Professional Organizations

Choosing an accredited program is essential for ensuring quality education and career readiness. Look for programs accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). Verify accreditation status on the ABET website at abet.org.

Professional organizations play a vital role in networking and career development. Consider joining:

• Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES): bmes.org
• American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE): aimbe.org

These organizations offer access to conferences, publications, and professional development resources.

Get Started Today

Pursuing a Biomedical Engineering Degree in Tacoma, Washington, or nearby cities is a rewarding step toward a career in a rapidly growing field. With excellent programs, strong career opportunities, and robust professional resources, the region provides a supportive environment for aspiring biomedical engineers. Contact universities today to learn more about their programs and application processes. By taking the first step, you’ll be on your way to joining a field that transforms healthcare and improves lives.