Bioengineers and biomedical engineers design and develop medical devices, equipment, and systems that improve human health. You'll need a bachelor's degree and strong skills in math, physics, and biology. The work is analytical, problem-focused, and in demand.
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Biomedical engineers apply engineering principles to healthcare and biology. You'll analyze data, solve complex problems, and make decisions about device design and function. Much of your work happens at a computer, where you model systems, process information, and stay current with new technologies. You read technical materials, listen to colleagues and clients, write reports and specifications, and speak to teams about your findings. Your knowledge spans engineering, electronics, mathematics, physics, design, and biology.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers earn a median of $109,370 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is strong. Employment is projected to grow 5 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than average for all occupations, with about 1,300 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
You'll need a bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering or a related engineering field. The path requires considerable preparation, including coursework in mathematics, physics, computer science, and biology. During your degree, you'll take specialized classes in medical device design, biomechanics, and bioelectronics. Many programs include lab work and design projects that simulate real-world engineering challenges. Internships and hands-on experience during school can help you build skills and make connections in the field.
Most biomedical engineers earn a bachelor's degree, though some pursue advanced degrees for specialized roles. The timeline and focus depend on your interests and career goals, so if you're exploring this path, Pathly can map the bioengineer and biomedical engineer path that fits you and work through it with your counselor to build a plan that fits your situation.
Many bioengineer and biomedical engineers must be licensed, and professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
Licensing is handled at the state level and the requirements vary, so check the licensing board in your state. Pathly shows your state's specific steps inside your roadmap.
You're drawn to investigation and problem-solving. You enjoy working with data, learning how systems work, and applying science and math to real challenges.
Reading about a career is the easy part. Turning it into a plan is where most students get stuck. Pathly takes you from curious to a clear next step, and gives your counselor the insight to champion you along the way.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).