Without Biomedical Scientists, it would not be possible to diagnose illness or evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment needed for a return to health. At every step of the way – from prognosis to recovery, medical understanding is informed by exhaustive scientific investigation and testing. As a result, students of Biomedical Science can expect to graduate into jobs at the forefront of medical research. In this article, Hotcourses’ own Biomedical Science student, Umar, takes a look at studying this subject in the USA.

Biomedical sciences is undoubtedly one of the most popular courses being offered in the US right now for people who are more into the science and medical department. Nowadays, doctors treat their patients based on results of the vital tests and investigations that diagnose often serious and potentially life-threatening illnesses such as cancer, AIDS or diabetes.

Why should someone study biomedical sciences?

This area of science opens doors to many careers and touches on a number of different aspects of medicine. A student can expect the following:

• Learning more about the causes, progression, diagnosis and treatment of disease.
• Developing practical skills for use in the laboratory setting.
• A career in healthcare or other related areas.
• Employment in more general areas of science e.g. in research and commercial sectors, including universities.

As the course progresses, increasing emphasis is placed on relating knowledge to scientific research. With that in mind, all students have the opportunity to obtain first-hand experience of a laboratory, which can then be carried on into their specialism.

What does the course involve?

The course is four years long and provides students with a broad foundation understanding in science and healthcare. This includes specialized knowledge in areas such as: molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, physiology, anatomy, and public health.

Students also gain an awareness of the social, legal, and ethical issues surrounding technological advances related to the biomedical sciences.

What happens after graduation?

A BSc in Biomedical Science is designed to prepare students for further training after graduation in state-approved hospital laboratories, as required for State licensure of Medical Technologists. Traineeships are available to qualified graduates in laboratories throughout the country.

What does a professional Biomedical Scientist Do?

 A biomedical scientist is responsible for all types of laboratory testing and analyses of human samples to determine the exact cause of diseases and the effect of various treatment procedures on the health of the patient. Always researching, testing and experimenting, a biomedical scientist provides the ammunition for the medical profession’s battle against illness.

How can you fund your studies?

Arranging your funds for studying abroad is often considered to be the most problematic part of the process, but there are a number of options available to you. There are various benefits and financial aids being offered all over e.g these very popular Study Abroad Loans which easily lend you funds for your education without even involving your school’s financial aid department. You can also search for scholarships right here on Hotcourses or here’s a good place to look for help from the Government of Pakistan for Pakistani Students.

Why study in the USA?

To start with, there are over 4000 universities to choose from and with such a huge variety, there’s bound to be a great fit for you. In terms of career opportunities, around 90% students get promoted from undergraduate colleges and people with American graduate degrees hold approximately 70% of the most influential and lucrative positions in government, non-profit agencies, and private enterprise worldwide.

“It’s constantly interesting. There’s never a dull moment when you think ‘oh, I’ve got to do this’ because it’s so open.”  American Undergraduate Student.

American culture has been enriched by the values and belief systems of virtually every part of the world. From an international student's perspective, that diversity is very valuable. The international student office is a good starting point for campus offerings, as well as the campus student center.

We asked a student studying Medicine in the USA, her experience, in this Case Study. You can also visit various blogs where former students have shared their experience of studying in America and our very own Hotcourses Blog for further information about studying abroad.

Some Useful Links:

 Top Institutes to study Biomedical in the US

 An academic and career-oriented description for students who are interested in careers in the biological and biomedical sciences.

 The Institute of Clinical Research

Internationally recognised as the premier organisation for clinical research

Biomedical Employment Statistics

Official Website: BLS - Biomedical

A very comprehensive page, providing the statistics and the information about employment in this industry.