Best Biomedical Engineering Associate Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

An Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering is a two-year program that trains students in the use of engineering and design principles for the purpose of finding solutions to medical and healthcare problems. Biomedical engineers are responsible for designing medical equipment and devices. If you’re looking to become a biomedical engineer, then reviewing the best biomedical engineering associate degrees is a great place to start.

Associate Degrees in Biomedical Engineering are among the quickest paths to becoming a biomedical engineer. By attending a biomedical engineering associate degree program from a reputable school, you can be sure of landing the best biomedical engineering associate degree jobs. Here, we’ve compiled the best Associate Degrees in Biomedical Engineering as well as their admission requirements.

Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering?

Some of the best colleges where you can get an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering are South Florida State College, Dallas College, Muskegon Community College, Portland Community College, and Miami Dade College.

What Schools Offer the Best Biomedical Engineering Associate Degrees?

• South Florida State College
• Dallas College
• Muskegon Community College
• Portland Community College
• Miami Dade College

What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering?

The admission requirements for an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering are a high school transcript, a completed application form, standardized test scores, and letters of recommendation.

However, schools have varying Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering requirements to gain admission into their specific associate degree program. It’s best to check with the school to make sure that you meet the requirements.

 Biomedical Engineering Associate Degree Admission Requirements

• High school transcript
• Completed application form
• Paid application fee
• Standardized test scores
• Letters of recommendation

How to Get a Biomedical Engineering Associate Degree

You get an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering by fulfilling all of the school’s graduation requirements. These requirements include the total number of credits you need to complete the program and others, like a minimum GPA of 2.0.

How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering?

You need around 60 credits for an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering. The credits are broken down into general education courses, science and engineering courses, and some electives. Credit allocations for these subject areas differ from one Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering program to another.

Biomedical Engineering Degree Requirements

• General education courses
• Basic science courses
• Engineering courses
• Biomedical instrumentation
• Biomedical engineering design

Best Biomedical Engineering Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

School	Program	Accreditation
Bunker Hill Community College	Associate of Science in Biomedical Engineering	New England Commission of Higher Education
Dallas College	Associate of Science in Biomedical Engineering	Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Great Bay Community College	Associate in Science in Bioengineering	New England Commission of Higher Education
Lone Star College	Associate of Science in Biomedical Engineering	Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Miami Dade College	Associate of Science in Biomedical Engineering Technology	Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Milwaukee Area Technical College	Associate Degree in Biomedical Electronics Technology	Higher Learning Commission
Muskegon Community College	Associate in Applied Science in Biomedical Engineering Technology	Higher Learning Commission
Portland Community College	Associate Degree in Bioscience Technology	Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Quinsigamond Community College	Associate in Science in Electronics Engineering Technology – Biomedical Instrumentation Option	New England Commission of Higher Education
South Florida State University	Associate of Science in Biomedical Equipment Technician	Southern Association of Colleges and Schools

Best Schools for Biomedical Engineering: Top Biomedical Engineering Associate Degree Programs

Many schools offer associate engineering degrees in biomedical engineering. However, attending one of the best biomedical engineering associate degree programs can help you get ahead in your career. In this section, we will break from the best schools for an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering.

Factors included in the rankings of these schools include flexibility, cost, accreditation, and career services. These top biomedical engineering associate degree programs also prepare students for advanced degrees in biomedical engineering and enhance their career options as biomedical engineering technicians or engineers.

What Is a Biomedical Engineering Associate Degree?

A biomedical engineering associate degree is a two-year program that trains students in biomedical engineering fundamentals. Students learn about the design, implementation, maintenance, and repair of equipment and devices used in medical and healthcare facilities.

An Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering can help students gain credits for transfer into a bachelor’s degree program in biomedical engineering or related field. Also, students can be certified to practice by the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation if they pass the qualifying exam.

How Important Is an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering?

An Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering is important if you want to begin a career in biomedical engineering. One of the reasons a biomedical engineering associate degree is important is that it is a direct pathway to practicing as a biomedical technician.

Also, if you’re looking to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Biomedical Engineering, getting an associate degree can help you meet the general education credit requirements. In addition, an associate program offers a great way to learn if the biomedical field is the right choice for you.

What Types of Associate Degree Can You Get in Biomedical Engineering?

The types of Associate Degrees in Biomedical Engineering you can get are an Associate of Science and an Associate of Applied Science. Both biomedical engineering associate degree types take two years to complete, but they have slightly different curricula.

The Associate of Science degree has an academic-focused curriculum, preparing students for further studies in a bachelor’s degree program. As a result, most schools offering an Associate of Science in Biomedical Engineering have a transfer agreement with bachelor’s degree-awarding institutions. That way, graduates of the associate degree program only have to spend two additional years to get a bachelor’s degree.

Meanwhile, the Associate of Applied Science degree is a terminal degree. That means the program prepares students to join the workforce immediately after graduation. So, the curriculum is focused on biomedical engineering, with less focus on math, English, science, and the like.

Is It Better to Get an Associate of Science or Associate of Applied Science in Biomedical Engineering?

It is better to get an Associate of Science in Biomedical Engineering if you want to transfer to a bachelor’s degree program. That way, you only need to spend two more years to complete the bachelor’s degree. The curriculum of an Associate of Science program focuses on general education courses, which helps you meet a bachelor’s program GRE requirements.

On the other hand, it is better to get an Associate of Applied Science in Biomedical Engineering if you want to work immediately as a biomedical technician after graduation and you’re not looking to earn a bachelor’s degree via the associate degree program. An Associate of Applied Science program focuses on developing specific skills in students so they will succeed in the biomedical engineering field.

What Is the Difference Between a Biomedical Engineering Associate Degree and a Biomedical Engineering Certificate?

The difference between a biomedical engineering associate degree and a certificate in biomedical engineering is the level of commitment and classes required. For a biomedical engineering associate degree program, applicants must study for two years. In addition, they will need to maintain a minimum GPA and complete rigorous courses.

Meanwhile, a biomedical engineering certificate is typically a shorter and less stringent program. That means that it is much easier to get a biomedical engineering certificate vs a degree. With that, an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering will be regarded higher by employers than a certificate would be.

How Much Does It Cost to Get an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the annual cost of getting an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering is $11,391. This amount covers tuition, fees, room, and board. In your search for the right program, you will find schools with higher and lower costs than this.

For example, a biomedical engineering associate degree cost may be significantly lower if you do not live in campus housing. In addition, the average Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering cost will significantly change depending on whether you attend an in-state or out-of-state program.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Biomedical Engineering Associate Degree?

It takes two years to get a biomedical engineering associate degree. Students will have to pass a minimum of 60 credits to get a biomedical engineering associate degree. Most programs have four semesters, with the credits unevenly split among them.

However, the actual Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering program length may be longer if you fail courses or only take classes part time. In addition, some schools may offer accelerated programs that allow you to complete your biomedical engineering associate degree in less than two years.

How Hard Is It to Get an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering?

It is not very hard to get an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering. Entry requirements for many biomedical engineering associate degree programs don’t include a minimum GPA. Also, students may not be required to submit their standardized test scores.

In addition, the actual program only lasts two years. Further, program courses will focus on general education and foundation courses in the field of biomedical engineering. As such, it is not hard to get an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering as long as you study and take all of the required courses.

Why Should You Get a Biomedical Engineering Associate Degree?

You should get a biomedical engineering associate degree if you want to pursue a career as a biomedical engineer, technician, or researcher. One of the major benefits of an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering is that it offers you options to either continue your education or enter the workforce. This is especially true if you have an Associate of Science degree.

What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Associate Degree Program in Biomedical Engineering?

Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering courses will include a mixture of general education and field-specific courses. The courses you need to take in an associate degree program in biomedical engineering are technical math, introduction to engineering, anatomy and physiology, electronics, and biology. Learn more about the typical topics covered in the Associate in Biomedical Engineering course list below.

Math

A course in mathematics helps a student meet the entry requirements for a Bachelor’s in Biomedical Engineering. Courses in an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering program typically cover calculus, algebra, technical math, and geometry.

Introduction to Engineering

An Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering is considered a degree in engineering. So, it’s only normal for students to take courses in engineering. As a result, introduction to engineering is a common feature in many biomedical engineering technology programs. However, some schools only require students to take a science or engineering elective.

Biology

A biology course introduces students to the concept of life and life forms, including plants and animals. Students have to learn about biological systems to help them prepare for a more intensive career in medical technologies.

Anatomy and Physiology

Biomedical engineering can be classified as applied engineering. So, in addition to learning engineering principles, students have to learn about how the human body works. This course will cover the introductory aspects of the human body and the different processes for normal body functioning.

Electronics

A biomedical engineering associate degree program incorporates electrical engineering into its curriculum. So, students will have to take courses in electronics to help them understand their way around electrical systems.

Continuing Education Paths for Biomedical Engineering Associate Degree Graduates

The best path to take with a  biomedical engineering associate degree is to get a bachelor’s degree in the same or similar field with just two extra years of study. After earning a bachelor’s degree, students can also enroll in a graduate degree program to earn their master’s in biochemical engineering or a related field.

Also, graduates can find a wide range of job opportunities in the job market by earning the Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician certificate issued by the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation.

Related Biomedical Engineering Degrees

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What to Look For in the Best Biomedical Engineering Associate Degree Programs

The things to look for in the best biomedical engineering associate degree programs are accreditation, flexibility, transfer agreement, cost, and student services. Let’s take a look in more detail at what to look for in a college for an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering below.

Accreditation

Associate degree programs in biomedical engineering are chiefly offered by technical colleges. Still, you must ensure that the school has the right accreditation to offer a program in biomedical engineering. You can always check the accreditation status on the school’s website. Alternatively, you can use the US Department of Education’s Accreditation Search.

Flexibility

You may not consider flexibility if you have all the time in the world. However, if you want to keep a job while completing an associate degree program, you may want to consider options that allow for that. Thankfully, you can find online programs that will enable you to earn your Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering at a convenient schedule.

Transfer Agreement

If you intend to transfer to a Bachelor’s in Biomedical Engineering program, then enrolling in a program that has a transfer arrangement with many universities should be your top priority. That way, you’ll be able to meet your general education requirements by transferring credits. This transfer allows you to spend just two years in a bachelor’s program.

Cost

It’s possible to get a quality education without spending a fortune. Your goal should be finding the right program that fits into how much you can afford. Unless you’re willing to take out student loans, the best option is to stick to an affordable option. Alternatively, you can learn how to get an engineering scholarship.

Student Services

Student services include mentorship, career assistance, employment counseling, and more. To ensure you will get the most out of an associate degree program, make sure that it offers various student services.

What Is the Most Affordable Biomedical Engineering Associate Degree?

The most affordable biomedical engineering associate degree is the Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering Technology from Miami Dade College. The cost of the program is $2,838 for in-state students.

Salary and Job Outlook for Biomedical Engineering Associate Degree Graduates

Graduates of biomedical engineering associate degree programs can get a job right after graduation in different sectors. The following sections will focus on the highest-paying biomedical associate degree jobs. In addition, we will cover the average Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering salary.

How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Biomedical Engineering Associate Degree?

It is hard to get a job with a biomedical engineering associate degree. Most jobs in biomedical engineering require a bachelor’s degree. As a result, the roles are limited for associate degree holders. Still, graduates of biomedical engineering associate degree programs can still find jobs in the field.

The best option, however, is to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Biomedical Engineering. Further, getting a master’s or a doctorate makes your prospects even better. You can even find biomedical engineering master’s degrees online. There are a variety of opportunities for graduates with these degrees.

What’s the Average Biomedical Engineering Associate Degree Salary?

The average pay for someone with a biomedical engineering associate degree is about $60,000 per year, according to PayScale. Specific job titles within the Associate of Science and Associate of Applied Science degree options have varying averages.

Biomedical equipment technicians earn an average of approximately $49,700, while an operations supervisor earns an average of close to $64,000. Both job titles fall under the Associate of Science category.

What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Biomedical Engineering Associate Degree?

The jobs you can do with a biomedical engineering associate degree include working as a medical equipment repairer, biomedical equipment repairer, and biomedical engineer. In addition, you can work with medical instrumentation, artificial organs, and prosthetics.

The highest-paying biomedical engineering jobs for associate degree holders will require workers to take on managerial responsibility. This may include working as a supervisor or in other management positions.

Biomedical Engineering Degree Jobs

• Biomedical equipment technicians
• Medical equipment repairers
• Medical instrumentation engineers
• Artificial organs and prosthetics designers
• Biomedical engineers

Potential Careers With a Biomedical Engineering Degree

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How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering?

You can expect to make between $45,000 and $105,000 with a biomedical engineering associate degree. The average amount of money that biomedical engineering degree holders make out of college all depends on the role they work in, the city they live in, and the individual’s experience level.

Although it is somewhat unusual for an associate degree holder to become a supervisor, with additional education, or even with enough experience, that door can open as well. Here are the top jobs that you can find.

Highest-Paying Biomedical Engineering Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview

Biomedical Engineering Associate Degree Jobs	Average Salary
Diagnostic imaging supervisor	$101,340
Biomedical engineer	$97,410
Field service engineer, medical equipment	$79,343
Electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians	$63,640
Medical equipment repairers	$49,910

Best Jobs for Biomedical Engineering Associate Degree Grads

The best biomedical engineering associate degree jobs include diagnostic imaging supervisors, medical equipment repairers, field service engineers for medical equipment, and more. Learn more about the best jobs for an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering and how much they pay below.

Best Jobs According to Your Major

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Is an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering Worth It?

Yes, an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering is worth it. However, it depends on what your career goals are. If you want to practice as a biomedical equipment technician, then getting a biomedical engineering associate degree is an excellent way to get into the profession. Also, it allows you to test the waters of biomedical engineering before committing to a lifelong career.

While an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering may not give you the best variety of jobs, the degree can serve as a stepping stone to further education in bachelor’s and master’s degree programs.

Additional Reading About Biomedical Engineering

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Biomedical Engineering Associate Degree FAQ