Biomedical -Engineering BSc
What will you learn?
Taught in Icelandic. Proficiency in Icelandic is a requirement.
The programme prepares future engineers for advanced roles in developing new devices and methods for analysing and treating diseases, as well as applying engineering techniques in biology and medicine.
Among other things, the focus is on brainwave recordings, prosthetics, advanced prosthetic limbs, CT scans, radiation therapy, and mathematical models.
The programme combines different fields such as mathematics and physics with biophysics, all to solve problems related to illnesses and injuries. The study of biomedical engineering consists of a three-year BSc programme and a two-year MSc programme.
Five-year programme
Engineering is a five-year programme, totalling 300 ECTS credits. Students obtain a licensed professional title as engineers upon completing both the BSc and MSc degrees.
How do I learn?
Fundamental courses
In all the engineering programmes, the first semesters of study are dedicated to fundamental courses that benefit engineers throughout their careers. Upon completing these courses, students will have a strong understanding of:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Programming
- Project management
- Sustainability
Specialised courses
After the first year, the programme becomes increasingly tailored to each specific track. Specialised courses within the programme further develop the area of expertise. Specialised courses in biomedical engineering include:
- Circuit analysis (Greining rása)
- Molecular and cell biology (Sameinda- og frumulíffræði)
- Physiology (Lífeðlisfræði)
- Instruments and vital signs (Mælitækni og lífsmörk)
- Medical imaging (Læknisfræðileg myndgerð)
Engineering X
In the sixth semester of the BSc programme, all engineering students complete an extensive final project. In this course, students work on projects in groups, taking them from concept to final product. The topics are either tailored to individual programmes or interdisciplinary projects. This course provides excellent preparation for professional life.
Focus on sustainability
Sustainability and environmental issues are becoming increasingly important in our world. In the engineering programme, this is addressed through three mandatory courses. In the first semester, all engineering students take a course on energy efficiency, and the course Introduction to Engineering focuses on sustainability and the environment. In the fifth semester, there is a dedicated course on sustainability. Additionally, environmental issues are integrated into the topics of other courses throughout the programme.
Electives
Students can choose courses based on their areas of interest, such as internships, courses from other engineering tracks, or courses from other departments at RU.
12+3 system
Each semester is divided into two parts. Four courses are taught over 12 weeks, followed by exams. After the exams, a three-week course follows, where the course material is applied in a practical context through project work, group work, and/or collaboration with companies.
Internship
Students can apply for a 6 ECTS internship in the final year of their BSc studies. The process simulates a job search, where students submit a CV and cover letter, and companies select candidates for interviews.
The goal of the internship is to strengthen the connection between students from the Department of Engineering at RU and industry, enhance students' insight and understanding of the challenges in their field, and prepare them for employment after graduation by solving real-world problems in a professional setting.
Exchange studies
Students can apply for exchange programmes at international universities. BSc students must have an average grade of 7 or higher and have completed 60 credits before participating in the exchange programme. The International Office provides further information.
Club activities
Students can participate in various engineering-related activities, such as being part of the university's Formula team (RU Racing), the robotics club, or participating in innovation or management competitions.
At RU, engineering students have countless opportunities to solve real-world problems and learn the design process from concept, design, and construction to functionality.
What's next?
High technology in healthcare is the professional field of many biomedical engineers. In numerous domestic and international companies, new technology is being developed with a forward-looking perspective. The development of devices and technology is often based on the latest research findings from various branches of health and natural sciences.
Engineers from RU
A BSc and MSc degree in engineering from RU provides students with excellent preparation to take the next step towards their future goals, whether it be further education, starting a business, or pursuing a career, either domestically or internationally.
Upon graduation, students are expected to be capable of teamwork and have developed good, disciplined work habits that align with the best and most up-to-date methods, alongside solid theoretical knowledge and expertise in their field.
Accredited title
The engineering programme consists of a 3-year (180 credits) undergraduate degree and a 2-year (120 credits) MSc programme. To obtain professional qualifications and the right to use the accredited title of engineer, students must complete the MSc degree in accordance with the requirements of the Ministry of Industry and Innovation.
Any questions?
Structure
Three-week courses
Facilities
Everything in one place
At Reykjavik University, all teaching and operations take place under one roof. Emphasis is placed on ensuring that everyone has easy access to the services within the building.
Further information: Campus | Háskólinn í Reykjavík
Living in Iceland
Many things must be considered before arriving in Iceland and during the first few weeks of your stay. Find everything you need about living, studying, and thriving in Iceland here:
Why Engineering at RU?
- Teaching is conducted over 12 weeks, followed by a three-week practical module.
- Targeted project work with real-world issues.
- Replicating the business world: students complete the extensive Engineering X course.
- Excellent facilities for both practical and theoretical study.
- Good support for students from academic and career counsellors, library staff, department offices, and lecturers.
- All study programmes are available as a continuous five-year path (BSc & MSc).
- Students gain knowledge in the natural sciences and training in methodologies and practices that will be useful in the future.
- Opportunity for internships.
- Students can apply to rent a room or apartment in the RU Háskólagarðar, located at the base of Öskjuhlíð.
- All studies under one roof.