Master's Degree in Biomedical Engineering 1

[ftaireh]

Hello All,

I am currently a manufacturing engineer and have worked in the aerospace field for close to a decade. I fell into the aerospace field because that was my first job out of college and I have been there ever since. I have been getting bored with my job and have started researching master's degrees at work. I found a master's degree in Biomedical Engineering. I have wanted to get into the medical field since college so this really sparked my interest. I am a bit hesitant because a master's is a huge time and money commitment.

Will a master's in Biomedical Engineering help me get into the medical field even though all of my work experience is in aerospace?

 

[MacGyverS2000]

Your engineering background is what will greatly help you into the field... the Master's will be icing on the cake. If you're already bio-inclined in your knowledge, I have a feeling the degree will go rather smoothly.

Dan - Owner

http://www.Hi-TecDesigns.com

 

[SlideRuleEra]

ftaireh - Have you looked into job prospects for an entry level Biomedical Engineer with a Masters Degree? Maybe you will like what you find, maybe not.

During the past ten years, what have you accomplished to show that you are not just working at a job, but building a career?
Perhaps taken and passed the PE Industrial and Systems Exam?
Maybe joined and participated in a manufacturing oriented technical society?
I'm not suggesting these type activities will help you get started in a new field, just demonstrate to an employer that you have potential.

http://www.SlideRuleEra.net

http://www.VacuumTubeEra.net

 

[oldestguy]

Agree with SliderRule Era. Don't jump unless you know all about the MS chances and drawbacks. Us old guys have seen a lot, both successes and failures.

 

[CWB1]

I wouldn't be overly concerned about jumping industries so much as I'd be concerned over moving from manufacturing into design. IME they're two different worlds requiring different skillsets so you'd effectively be starting over as a junior engineer.

 

[casseopeia]

You could go into forensics. The company I work for has a biomedical engineering and investigation practice. They accident investigations of all kinds, and of course, expert witness testimony. Lots of letters after your name is always a plus. I would say the work is more engineering than medical, though.

If you are offended by the things I say, imagine the stuff I hold back.

 

[jari001]

When you say "medical field" do you mean you want to get into medical device manufacturing/design? From my understanding of the required skills, you could have them from working in aerospace or at least foot in the water in the areas (electrical systems, heat transfer, materials testing, materials compatibility investigation - to name a few). I think the Master's degree could help you realise how to use your current skills in the new field and let you catch up on area specific knowledge - but that's a judgement you need to make after reviewing your education options. If you want to get into a pure medical role, say research on molecules or anything patient side, that might be a little trickier.

Have you tried applying to those jobs to see if you get any sort of response? Can't hurt to apply in my opinion.
Go to a biomedical engineering industry event in your area if you can and start networking - you'll probably find the answers to your questions there.