Biomedical Technology

In Term 1, the core and advanced level of biomedical technology related modules (each 15 credits) are delivered through lectures, tutorials and the laboratory sessions. In the project (60 credits), you will tackle problems involving the design of biomedical devices whereas in the group project (30 credits), you will work as a team to design biomedical systems, such as blood glucose monitor, and prepare the quality audit report for seeking device approval as required by the biomedical industry regulators.

Both projects involve a substantial written report and an oral presentation. The MSc projects are scheduled in the month following the completion of the taught modules and project titles relevant to industry requirements are selected by you during your placement within the biomedical industry.

Student stories

Hear from our students and graduates about their experiences studying this course:

Learning Methods

In Term 1 you are taught modules to develop and consolidate the knowledge base. In Term 3, you will reflect critically on your learning and establish a view of your own progress and development through individual project execution.

The course involves six 15 credit (SCQF Level 9-11) modules, the 30 credit group project and 60 credit individual project/placement.

The taught modules are assessed by a combination of examination, coursework and group/individual assessments. The weightings of the examination and coursework are either equal or proportional to reflect learning outcome. Most modules are assessed against pre-set success criterion and individual feedback is provided to students.

Activity Summary

• Lectures - 40 students per group, 60 hours per term
• Tutorial - 40 students per group, 40 hours per term
• Project Supervision - 1 student, 30 hours per term
• Demonstration - 7 students per group, 40 hours per term
• Practical class or workshop - 7 students per group, 40 hours per term
• Placement / Work Based Learning - 1 student, 300 hours per term
• Group working - 1 student per group, 300 hours

How long is a Biomedical Technology course?

The Biomedical Technology MSc can be successfully completed in 1 year.

Staff Delivering on This Course

The industry relevant module Quality Assurance, Regulation and Medical Ethics is included in the course to train students for skills that are sought in the local life science industries. It is interdisciplinary in nature and is taught by experts from three Schools; the School of Computing, Engineering and Technology, the School of Health and School of Pharmacy, Applied Sciences and Public Health. Many of the subjects are based on research activities carried out at the School of Computing, Engineering and Technology and other participating Schools.

Assessment

Typically students are assessed:

• 1 written exam, typically for 3 hours
• 3 written assignments, including essays
• 1 report
• 1 dissertation
• 1 portfolio
• 2 oral assessment
• 6 practical skills assessment

Feedback

We aim to provide you with feedback within 20 working days of submission of coursework.

Independent Study

A total of 150 hours per 15 credit module is the norm. To get the most out of your course you are expected to spend an equivalent amount of time studying outside the timetabled classes. This could include, for example, reading lecture notes, undertaking tutorial problems, writing up lab reports or other coursework, practicing specialist software skills.

Related degrees

We have many options available to you if you wish to progress through the research route.

Academic Support

The Inclusion Centre advises and supports students who disclose a sensory or mobility impairment, chronic medical condition, mental health issue, dyslexia and other specific learning differences. Applicants are encouraged to arrange a pre-entry visit to discuss any concerns and to view the facilities.

Online Learning & Support

All undergraduate and postgraduate students, whether you are learning on campus or by online learning, benefit from using our collaborative virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle. You will be provided with 24/7 online access to your learning material and resources, along with the ability to interact with your class members and tutors for discussion and support.

Study Skills Support

The Study Support Team provides training and support to all students in:

• Academic writing
• Study skills (note taking, exam techniques, time management, presentation)
• Maths and statistics
• English language
• Information technology support

Library Support

The Library offers support for your course, including the books, eBooks, and journals you will need. We also offer online reading lists for many modules, workshops and drop-ins on searching skills and referencing, and much more.

Placements

During the final Term of the course, you will spend time on an industry placement as an integral, assessed part of the course. These placements are coordinated by our University Placement Office with every effort being made to meet your individual needs. The placements are normally salaried, at a rate determined by the company. While on placement you are under the guidance of an industrial mentor from the company and an academic supervisor from the University. Many placements result in full-time employment after graduation. The Placement team can provide support to help you secure an industry placement. Where placement is not possible, you will be allocated a multidisciplinary hands-on individual project.

Job Prospects

Is Biomedical Technology a good career choice?

Graduates of the course would typically work as research and development engineers or design engineers in the medical device industry producing the next generation of devices such as pacemakers, defibrillators, ECG systems and prosthetics, right through to specialists working in hospitals/the National Health Service (NHS) to operate and maintain sophisticated equipment for the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. Graduates are required in four important sectors that includes:

• The medical device and pharmaceutical industry
• Hospital trusts (e.g. NHS)
• Government and regulatory agencies (European Medicines Agency (EMA),Food and Drug Administration (FDA))
• Universities

Find out more about this industry:

What is needed for MSc Biomedical Technology?

• Applicants normally hold a 2:2 Engineering, Science or equivalent degree in relevant subject.
• A background in systems science, engineering, or physics is strongly recommended for entry to this MSc course.
• Applicants with an HND with relevant industrial experience may be considered for entry. Prospective students with an HND and relevant industrial experience may be called for an interview.

English Language Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English should have an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with no component lower than 5.5, or an equivalent.

We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:

International Students 

International students who do not meet our direct entry requirements for this course can gain additional entry points through our International College at Robert Gordon University.

Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page.

Contact admissions@rgu.ac.uk for further information.