Biomedical Engineering

Students acquire a wide-ranging, integrated knowledge and understanding of the scientific and technical fundamentals of their field of study. They have at their disposal a critical understanding of the basic theories, principles and methods dealt with during their studies, and are in a position to broaden this knowledge independently.

Moreover, students gain the ability to collect and interpret data and use it to infer scientifically based judgements, as well as to implement appropriate solutions that take into account social, scientific, and ethical issues, and to construct continuous learning processes independently. They learn how to formulate and defend opinions and solutions with reference to their specific field, to exchange information, ideas, problems and solutions with experts and laymen, and to work responsibly in modern professional life.

Our modern, well-equipped labs play a major role in ensuring that students are later able to apply their knowledge to their chosen careers. Advanced students plan projects together, work towards a common goal and then present their results in a written report as well as to the class.

Our instruction methods include problem-based approaches and integrated team work. By taking modules in business and management, research planning and scientific writing, students obtain skills necessary for their future success.

Educational organisation

During the first semester, students focus on engineering basics as well as biological and medical basics. In the second and third semesters, students focus on their specialisation, mainly in the above-mentioned fields. In the fourth semester, each student conducts research for his or her Master's thesis.

Biomedical engineering is a multidisciplinary field in which the principles of engineering are applied to solve problems in biology or medicine. Quantitative, analytical, and integrative methods are applied, from the molecular level to that of the whole organism.

First Semester:

• Basic Medical Bridging Courses
• Basic Engineering Bridging Courses
• German Language Courses

Second Semester:

• Artificial Organs I
• Cellular and Molecular Biophysics I
• Biosensors and Chemical Sensors
• Medical Imaging
• Medical Statistics
• Cardiovascular Mechanics
• Continuum Mechanics
• Laser Applications in Medicine and Biology
• Research Planning and Scientific Writing

Third Semester:

• Artificial Organs II
• Cellular and Molecular Biophysics II
• Dynamic Systems and Computer Modelling
• Biomaterials and Biocompatibility
• Molecular Biology and Genetics
• Biomechanics
• Cell Culture Technology
• Laser Technology
• Finite Element Methods
• Extracorporeal Cardiovascular Fluid Mechanics
• Integrated Circuit Design

Fourth Semester:

• Master's Thesis

For more information see https://www.fh-aachen.de/studium/biomedical-engineering-msc/

Study abroad unit(s)

It is possible to spend a semester at a partner institution of higher education, either in Germany or abroad. The FH Aachen has over 100 partner universities. We strongly encourage German students to spend a semester abroad; however, due to visa restrictions, this is not always possible for international students.

Internships

In the second and third semesters, students have the option of completing a scientific project at the university, in industry, at a research institution, or in a hospital.

Forms of assessment

There are three periods of written exams each year: February/March, July and September. Exams for block courses are at the end of each block.
The degree programme concludes with a Master's thesis which the student presents in a colloquium.

Course objectives

The four-semester Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering has a strong practical focus. The major focus of the programme is to prepare students for jobs in industry, but students are also qualified for research positions in industry, in hospitals and at public research institutions. Some students choose to continue their studies in a PhD programme.

Language requirements

Proof of English language proficiency, such as IELTS Band 5.5, TOEFL IBT 68 (internet-based test), or German Abitur or Fachhochschulreife grade 3 in English, or equivalent
German is not required for admission.

Academic requirements

BSc, BSc (Hons), BEng, BTech, Dipl-Ing, Dipl-Ing FH, or equivalent in related fields with high academic standing

Enrolment fees

The student activity fee is currently about 250 EUR per semester.
Optional, but recommended German lessons cost about 300 EUR per semester, including books.

Costs of living

At this time the tuition and fees are approx. 250 EUR per semester and health insurance 80 EUR. In general, living costs, room and board total 700 EUR per month. International students who have been admitted may be required to submit proof to the German embassy that they have 8,000 EUR in their account in order to obtain a visa to study in Germany.
The semester ticket (included in the student activity fee) includes free use of public transport in the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia.

Job opportunities

Applicants should not count on financing their stay in Jülich or Aachen by working part-time during their studies. However, some students are successful in finding part-time jobs either at the university or elsewhere.

Services and support for international students

Assistance with cultural and social issues, as well as academic advice and tutoring are available.

Accommodation

International students can place their names on a waiting list for the student dormitories after they have arrived in Jülich and have enrolled.
Some students live in student dormitories. Other students generally live in shared apartments in which each student has his or her own room. Living areas, bathrooms and cooking facilities are shared. Furnished rooms start at about 275 EUR per month plus about 75 EUR per month for electricity, water and heating. Most rooms require the first month's rent and a security deposit of one to three months' rent in advance before you can move into the room. If the room is in good condition when you move out, your security deposit will be returned.