Online Degree Programs in Biomedical Equipment Technology

Employed by hospitals, clinics and private medical practices, biomedical equipment technicians are highly skilled individuals trained to maintain and repair medical equipment. Due to the hands-on nature of training needed in this field, programs that are entirely online are not available. However, some programs do offer students the option to complete a few general education and field-specific courses online.

Associate's Degree Program in Biomedical Equipment Technology Overview

An associate's degree in biomedical equipment technology provides students with an understanding of the procedures for operating, maintaining and repairing medical equipment in a variety of healthcare settings. This degree program provides not only technical skills, but knowledge in electronic concepts and principles in areas such as microprocessors, circuitry, and networking devices. Students are required to become familiar with the medical terminology and legal aspects of this type of work.

Program Information

An associate's degree program in biomedical equipment technology can usually be completed in two years. Through coursework and practical instruction, students gain valuable hands-on experience working with biomedical equipment in the classroom and in clinical settings.
In addition to providing hands-on courses in equipment use, some programs offer lower-level courses online. Common online courses include college writing, history and other general education requirements. Online courses are typically offered through course management software and may require high-speed internet access.

Common On-Campus Courses

The curriculum for a biomedical equipment technology degree at the associate's level combines a number of courses in electronics with other sciences, such as biology, chemistry and physics. Human anatomy and physiology are common prerequisites for upper-level courses needed for this degree.

Biomedical Equipment Course

This course focuses on the various types of medical equipment used in hospitals and other medical facilities. Topics include biomedical instrumentation and measurement, medical imaging equipment, respiratory therapy devices, intensive care monitoring equipment and cardiovascular devices.

Digital Electronics Course

Students become familiar with digital circuits and how they are used in electronic equipment. Topics include gate operation, digital waveform and data interpretation.

Solid State Electronics Course

Lessons provide students with an in-depth understanding of solid state circuit configurations and operations. Through both theoretical and experimental exercises, students study transistor amplifiers, voltage regulators, switching circuits, and MOSFETs.

Career Information

Due to the increased complexity of medical technology, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projected that employment of biomedical equipment technicians would grow by 27% between 2008 and 2018 (www.bls.gov). As of May 2009, the BLS reported that biomedical equipment technicians earned a median annual wage of $42,300.

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Bachelor's Degree Program in Biomedical Engineering Technology Overview

Although an associate's degree is the minimum standard for most entry-level careers within this field, earning a bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering technology may lead to career opportunities in supervisory or managerial positions. A bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering technology provides instruction in traditional engineering concepts and biological processes.
Coursework focuses on developing students' communication, analysis and problem-solving skills in order to prepare them to work effectively with other medical professionals. Technicians learn how to implement, repair and maintain advanced healthcare equipment. Some schools allow students to transfer credits earned in an associate's program in biomedical technology to a bachelor's program.

Program Information

Required coursework for a bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering technology includes general education credits, a core group of field-specific classes and a number of elective courses. Although this degree requires intensive on-campus coursework, some colleges and universities allow students to complete some of their biomedical engineering courses online.

Common Online Courses

The biomedical engineering technology curriculum includes courses in the technical, electrical and computer elements of high-tech medical equipment. A few examples of field-relevant courses that can be completed online include:

Medical Electronics Course

This online course introduces students to commonly used biomedical equipment. Equipment operation and physiologic measurements, such as pulmonary, cardiovascular and applicable pressure, are discussed.

Technology and Special Patient Populations Course

Students concentrate on the technology used to supplement the care of special patient populations in a clinical environment. Emphasis is placed on the medical needs of surgical, neonatal, cardiac intensive care and trauma unit patients.

Radiography Systems Course

Students are introduced to the principles of diagnostic radiography equipment. Topics include x-ray generation, film processing and image formation. Focus is placed on both radiography quality and safety.

Continuing Education

Keeping current with technological advances will continue to be an important factor in being a successful biomedical equipment technician. Technicians must continually update their knowledge and skills as new equipment is introduced to the healthcare field. Continuing education opportunities are offered by traditional educational institutions, medical equipment manufacturers and professional associations, such as the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation.