Technical Medicine

The Bachelor's in Technical Medicine at the University of Twente offers a comprehensive and innovative education designed to bridge the gap between medicine and engineering. This interdisciplinary program prepares students to develop and implement technological solutions that improve healthcare delivery, diagnostics, and treatment. The curriculum combines fundamental sciences such as mathematics, physics, and biology with specialized courses in biomedical engineering, medical instrumentation, and clinical technology. Throughout the program, students gain practical hands-on experience through laboratory work, engineering projects, and collaboration with healthcare professionals. The program emphasizes problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and creativity, enabling graduates to design, adapt, and maintain medical devices and systems that meet the evolving needs of healthcare environments. Students also develop a strong understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology to ensure technologies are safely and effectively integrated into medical practice. The program encourages interdisciplinary teamwork and critical reflection, preparing students for careers in medical technology development, clinical engineering, research, and innovation. The university's modern labs and close ties to hospitals and industry partners provide students with valuable real-world insights and networking opportunities. Graduates of Technical Medicine are equipped to contribute to advancements in healthcare technology and to play a vital role in improving patient outcomes through innovative engineering solutions. The bachelor's program typically takes three years to complete and offers a solid foundation for further specialization in master's programs related to biomedical engineering, health technology, or clinical engineering. By choosing this program, students embark on a challenging yet rewarding journey in a field that combines engineering expertise with a passion for healthcare, ultimately making a meaningful difference in people's lives.

Program Content of the Bachelor's in Technical Medicine at the University of Twente

The Bachelor's in Technical Medicine at the University of Twente offers an innovative interdisciplinary education that bridges the gap between engineering, medicine, and healthcare. The program aims to prepare students to develop advanced medical technologies and innovative healthcare solutions that improve patient care and diagnosis. Over the three-year curriculum, students acquire a solid foundation in biomedical engineering, human anatomy and physiology, medical technology design, and data analysis, combined with a focus on problem-solving skills and practical applications.

In the first year, students are introduced to fundamental principles in natural sciences, such as physics, chemistry, and mathematics, alongside an introduction to human biology and anatomy. The focus is on understanding how the human body functions and how medical technology can be applied to assess and improve health. The coursework also includes introductory courses in programming, modeling, and design thinking to develop technical skills necessary for innovative healthcare solutions.

During the second year, students deepen their knowledge of digital and mechanical systems, medical devices, and imaging technologies. They participate in project-based learning, where they solve real-world problems by designing and testing prototypes. Courses on systems modeling, biomedical signals, sensors, and measurement techniques prepare students to analyze physiological data and develop solutions for complex clinical challenges. Throughout this year, teamwork, communication, and project management skills are emphasized, preparing students to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.

The final year emphasizes practical experience through internships and a graduation project, where students apply their technical knowledge to actual healthcare problems. They collaborate with hospitals, medical device companies, or research institutes to develop innovative solutions that can have a tangible impact on patient care. Electives are available to tailor the program according to individual interests, such as wearable health technologies, medical robotics, or rehabilitation engineering.

Throughout the program, students learn about ethical considerations, user-centered design, and the regulatory environment surrounding medical devices and healthcare innovations. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and lifelong learning skills essential for a successful career in the rapidly evolving field of medical technology. Graduates are equipped to pursue careers as biomedical engineers, health technology developers, or to continue with a master's degree in related fields. The program prepares students to contribute to advancements in healthcare, ultimately aiming to improve quality of life through technological innovation.

Other requirements

The financing of the Technical Medicine bachelor’s degree program at the University of Twente is primarily structured around Dutch higher education funding policies, student contributions, and additional financial support options. The main source of funding for domestic students is the Dutch government through the decentralised college tuition fee system, which is subsidized and set annually by the government. For students from the European Union (EU) and EEA countries, tuition fees are regulated and typically higher than for Dutch students, but still subject to government caps. Non-EU students usually pay the full international tuition fee, which is higher and determined annually by the university.

Students in the Netherlands are eligible for various financial aid schemes, such as the Dutch Student Finance system (Studiefinanciering), which offers grants, loans, and reimbursements depending on residency status, age, and study progress. International students from outside the EU/EEA are not generally covered by Dutch student finance, but they may seek funding through their home country, scholarships, or private loans.

The University of Twente also provides scholarships and bursaries for talented students and those with financial hardship. These include need-based grants, merit-based scholarships, and specific programs aimed at international students. Funding through these scholarships can substantially reduce the financial burden for eligible students.

In addition, students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities available from government agencies, private foundations, and international organizations. Many of these scholarships require application prior to admission or during study and may have specific eligibility criteria, such as academic achievement or country of origin.

Students may also consider part-time employment opportunities during their studies, both on and off campus, which can help supplement their income. The university's proximity to research institutes, technology companies, and healthcare organizations provides possible avenues for internships and part-time work relevant to their field of study.

The overall cost of studying includes tuition fees, living expenses, books, insurance, and personal expenses. The university provides information and guidance to help students plan their finances effectively. Prospective students are advised to contact the university’s admissions office or financial aid office for precise and current details on tuition fees, scholarships, and financial planning options.

The Bachelor’s programme in Technical Medicine at the University of Twente is designed to prepare students for a future in the healthcare technology sector, focusing on the development, application, and management of innovative medical procedures and devices. This interdisciplinary programme combines elements of biomedical engineering, clinical practice, and healthcare technology, aiming to equip students with a broad set of skills necessary to improve patient care through technological advancements. The program is structured to provide a solid foundation in engineering principles, biological sciences, and medical knowledge, allowing students to develop solutions for complex medical problems. Students learn to design and evaluate medical devices, analyze clinical workflows, and implement technological solutions in healthcare environments. The curriculum covers topics such as medical imaging, bioinstrumentation, biomechanics, health data management, and rehabilitation technology.

Throughout the three-year Bachelor's programme, students gain practical experience through laboratory work, internships, and project-based learning, often collaborating with healthcare professionals and industry partners. The programme emphasizes innovation and entrepreneurship within healthcare, encouraging students to develop new ideas and bring them to market. Interdisciplinary teamwork is a core component, preparing graduates to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams typical of healthcare settings. Graduates of Technical Medicine are prepared for further specialization in Master’s programmes such as Biomedical Engineering, Healthcare Innovation, or Medical Informatics, or to enter the workforce directly in roles that require a strong understanding of medical technology, such as clinical technologists, medical device developers, or healthcare consultants.

The University of Twente fosters an environment of innovation and entrepreneurship, providing students access to state-of-the-art laboratories, research centers, and industry contacts. The programme’s unique combination of technical, biological, and medical sciences positions graduates to bridge the gap between complex medical needs and technological solutions, contributing to improved healthcare outcomes. The programme also encourages international collaboration and offers opportunities for students to participate in international exchanges, broadening their global perspective on healthcare challenges and technological solutions. Graduates are well-equipped to contribute to advancements in medical technology, improve patient safety, and promote efficiency in healthcare practices, making the Technical Medicine programme highly relevant to contemporary needs in medical science and healthcare technology.