Bachelor of Engineering (Biomedical Engineering) (Honours)

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Bachelor of Engineering (Biomedical Engineering) (Honours)

UNDERGRADUATE

Play a vital role in the evolution of healthcare and the development of technology that supports it.

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Student type:
Mode of study:
On campus
Entry score:

ATAR 79.60*

Duration:
Full-time 4 years
Part-time 8 years
Fees:

Commonwealth supported fees

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City
Bundoora
Mode of study:
On campus
Entry score:

ATAR 79.60

Duration:
Full-time 4 years
Fees:

AU$41,280 (2022 annual)

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City
Bundoora

Overview

Australia is a leading country in the development of medical research and technology. By studying biomedical engineering, you can be part of these exciting and rewarding fields of work.

You’ll help people affected by health conditions and the health professionals who support them.

In completing studies in biomechanics, medical electronics, mathematics, and engineering science, our graduates are well trained to work in the medical technology and biotechnology industries, producing assistive technologies, implantable devices for rehabilitation applications, lab-on-a-chip diagnostics and biomaterials.

You will have access to world-leading researchers and 3D-printing facilities such as the Advanced Manufacturing Precinct, the Micro Nano Research facility and the 3DBioFab, placing you at the interface of cutting-edge technologies and advances in biomedical science.

Why study biomedical engineering at RMIT?

Prepare yourself for employment

With the opportunity to undertake industry placements either locally or internationally, you'll be work-ready when you graduate. There are also opportunities to undertake research projects in partnership with industry, like the Engineers Without Borders Challenge.

A next generation degree

At RMIT, you’ll study a biomedical engineering degree that is collaborative and interdisciplinary, encompassing science, engineering science, IT and engineering. You will develop innovative skills to apply science and engineering to biomedicine and health care.

Hands-on learning experiences

Through hands-on learning and workplace experience, you’ll gain the skills to design and develop materials, equipment and technologies that will have an impact in this growing industry. You’ll use the latest technologies to deliver outcomes based on real-world challenges.

Portrait of Kate Firipis, Bachelor of Engineering (Biomedical Engineering) (Honours) graduate - Kate Firipis, Bachelor of Engineering (Biomedical Engineering) (Honours) graduate at RMIT
In biomedical engineering, you can specialise in everything from the fabrication of 3D nanoscaffolds for tissue engineering, to designing a program that diagnoses heart issues, to prosthetics that feel and act like real limbs.
Rahul Ratwatte looking at equipment

How you will learn biomedical engineering

Through a combination of classroom training and industry placements, you'll receive an industry-focused education in the fundamentals of biomedical engineering.

Details

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During your studies, you will take subjects in a variety of disciplines such as engineering science, engineering design, mathematics, biochemistry, biomechanics and digital fundamental.

In your first two years, you will study the fundamentals of engineering, physics, mathematics, and the basics of biology, anatomy and physiology. As you progress into third and fourth years, you’ll become industry-ready through major design projects that mirror the work of practising biomedical engineers.

You will also have the opportunity to design creative solutions through inspiring and sustainable design-and-build projects and take part in the Engineers Without Borders Challenge, a humanitarian-focused course offered in all RMIT engineering degrees.

This degree will:

  • help you develop the knowledge and skills essential for a professional career in biomedical engineering.
  • prepare you for employment in the medical technology and biotechnology industries producing assistive technology, implantable devices for rehabilitation applications, lab-on-a-chip diagnostics and biomaterials and other innovative solutions to medical and health problems
  • equip you with skills related to medical, biomedical, biomechanical, medical equipment, medical laboratory, bioinformatics, and other biomedical and health-related industries.

The Schools teaching this degree have extensive links with industry, particularly through research projects and consulting work. In a number of cases, industry has provided direct support by donating laboratory equipment. 

This degree also has an Industry Advisory Committee (IAC), which provides an important link to industry. Membership includes senior staff from major biomedical and related companies and relevant government and non-governmental organisations. The IAC provides feedback on the currency of the degree and the changing needs of industry. 

Industry partners and IAC members actively contribute to the degree through participation in seminars, marketing events, industry awards and scholarships. 

You may be able to undertake an industry-sponsored design project in your final year (as part of Engineering Capstone Project Part A and Part B). You also have the opportunity of undertaking an Industry Placement for six or twelve months, either locally as advertised by local businesses or internationally through the RMIT International Industry Experience and Research Program (RIIERP). 

RMIT encourages you to aspire to a global career, and as an engineering student you’ll have a range of global opportunities.

Through partner organisations in Europe, Asia and the United States, the RMIT International Industry Experience and Research Program (RIIERP) offers workplace training and academic research placements of between six and 12 months.

Global work, exchange and study experiences

RMIT offers a range of opportunities for our students to study abroad through global work, exchange and study experiences with over 165 partner universities worldwide.

Years 1 and 2 are conducted on the City campus. Years 3 and 4 are conducted on the City and Bundoora campuses.

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes.

Years 1 and 2

You'll study the fundamentals of engineering science and mathematics, and the basics of biology, anatomy and physiology.

In the engineering field, you will learn about electronics and mechanics in relation to biomedical applications.

Within the sciences, you’ll study mathematics, biomaterials, anatomy, human physiology and biochemistry.

All engineering students will undertake Introduction to Engineering, incorporating a humanitarian-focused Engineers Without Borders Challenge. You’ll have the opportunity to extend this aspect of your studies by completing an Engineers Without Borders elective, enabling you to experience humanitarian engineering first-hand.

Years 3 and 4

To get you industry-ready, you'll do major design projects that mirror the work of practising biomedical engineers. In your third year, you are provided with the opportunity to develop assistive technology for the community. 

Your final-year (capstone) project will develop and reinforce the skills and knowledge you need - as defined by Engineers Australia – to commence your professional engineering career. You may have the opportunity to present your project at EnGenius, an end-of-year student showcase event.

You will also complete a work-integrated learning (industry experience) elective in Years 2, 3 or 4.

Course structure

Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.

Bachelor of Engineering (Biomedical Engineering) (Honours)
Program code: BH069
Title
Location
Duration
Plan code
CRICOS
Bachelor of Engineering (Biomedical Engineering) (Honours)
City Campus
Four years full time, 16 semesters part time
BH069
079597B
Location
City Campus
Duration
Four years full time, 16 semesters part time
Plan code
BH069
CRICOS
079597B
View plan

VTAC Code

If you are eligible to apply via VTAC, copy and paste the below code into VTAC search.

  • Plan BH069 - 3200433201

Please ensure that you have checked the admissions requirements and apply page before applying.

VTAC Code

If you are eligible to apply via VTAC, copy and paste the below code into VTAC search.

  • Plan BH069 - 3200433203

Please ensure that you have checked the admissions requirements and apply page before applying.

Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.

Career

Work in one of Australia’s largest research and government funded industries and help improve the lives of others.

There are exciting careers available in the vibrant and expanding medical technology and biotechnology industries, producing assistive technologies, implantable devices for rehabilitation applications, lab-on-a-chip diagnostics, biomaterials and more.

You'll work in:

  • hospitals (servicing and optimising equipment)
  • medical device manufacturing
  • implant engineering
  • defence
  • nanotechnology
  • biotechnology
  • start-up companies.

You could also be employed as a regulator in government organisations, or as a researcher for government, universities or private companies.

You’ll find significant support provided by governments to start your own company and may work in private medical and pathology laboratories.

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The Bachelor of Engineering (Biomedical Engineering) (Honours) is fully accredited by Engineers Australia. Engineers Australia is the professional body responsible for the accreditation of higher education programs that prepare students to practise as professional engineers.

Engineers Australia is a signatory to the Washington Accord. This means that the degree is internationally recognised, and graduates are able to practise as professional engineers in many countries around the world.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Engineering (Biomedical Engineering) (Honours) are eligible for graduate and/or professional membership of Engineers Australia.

Admissions

You must have successfully completed an Australian Year 12 (or equivalent qualification).

Prerequisites

Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 30 in English (EAL) or at least 25 in English other than EAL and units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in any Mathematics, or equivalent studies.

Rankings and adjustment factors

Entry to this program is competitive. Eligible applicants are ranked and selected in order of merit based on their academic achievement plus any adjustment factors.

Adjustment factors include equity access schemes and/or subject adjustments.

We will consider your entire academic record to determine your eligibility for entry. The highest level of education you have previously completed will usually determine how you are ranked.

Selection criteria by applicant type

Please select the highest level of education you have or will be completing in order to find out the selection criteria that applies to you, in addition to meeting the above entry requirements.

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Entry to this program is competitive. Eligible applicants are ranked and selected in order of merit based on their academic achievement. You will be ranked on your ATAR plus any adjustment factors.

Applicants whose highest level of education is vocational education and training are not eligible to apply for this program in the July/midyear intake.

Midyear/July intake is only available to applicants with approved advanced standing (must have previously completed higher education courses in science or engineering). The advanced standing will be assessed once you have submitted an application for entry to the program.

Entry to this program is competitive. Applicants are ranked and selected in order of merit based on their academic achievement, e.g., GPA (including any adjustment factors).

We will consider your entire academic record to determine your eligibility for entry. Previous fail grades in similar courses may affect your eligibility.

You must have satisfactorily completed at least four courses (subjects) (0.5 EFTSL) at an Australian undergraduate level (or overseas equivalent). You will be assigned a selection rank (comparable to an ATAR) based on your GPA.

Personal statement

If you have been excluded from a program due to academic progress you are encouraged to submit a personal statement outlining the strategies you will adopt to ensure academic success.

If you are applying to RMIT through VTAC you can complete and submit the VTAC personal statement via your online VTAC account.

If you are applying direct to RMIT you can upload your completed personal statement via your online direct application.

You may be eligible for the following adjustment factors:

Equity access schemes

  • Equity access schemes take into account personal information and location, difficult circumstances, disadvantaged financial background and disability or medical condition that may have impacted on an applicant’s most recent academic performance. 
  • Find out more about the eligibility requirements for each Special Entry Access Scheme and RMIT access categories.
  • If you are applying through VTAC you should apply for the Special Entry Access Scheme.
  • If you are applying directly to RMIT you should apply for RMIT Access. The system will prompt you to do this during your application.

Elite Athlete Program

  • The RMIT Elite Athlete Program supports eligible elite and emerging athletes to achieve sporting and academic excellence, allowing students to balance the demands of both their studies and their athletic responsibilities.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

  • The Indigenous Access Program supports your application to RMIT through an informal interview process where you will receive help from the Ngarara Willim Centre. Additional consideration will be given if you have relevant life, work, education or training experience.

Applicants whose highest level of education is work and life experience are not eligible to apply for this program in the July/midyear intake. 

Additional information

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Non-academic abilities you’ll need to complete this program

The following information outlines the tasks you will be required to undertake during professional experience placement and on-campus learning activities.

The non-academic abilities listed are provided for your information only and are not entry requirements.

If there are any activities outlined which may be difficult for you to undertake, there are a range of adjustments to your study conditions available to enable and support you to demonstrate these abilities. Please contact the Equitable Learning Service to discuss any adjustments you may require.

By understanding the types of activities you’ll participate in, you can:

  • understand more about the program
  • determine if you may need support during your studies
  • make an informed decision about whether the program is suitable for you

If you are living with disability, long-term illness and/or a mental health condition, we can support you by making adjustments to activities in your program so that you can participate fully in your studies.

To receive learning adjustments, you need to register with Equitable Learning Service

The University considers the wellbeing and safety of all students, staff and the community to be a priority in academic and professional experience placement settings.

View the ATAR profile and selection rank from students offered a place into this program wholly or partly on the basis of ATAR in the most relevant recent intake period.

The student profile provides insight into the likely peer group for this program.

*ATAR refers to the lowest selection rank to which an offer was made (including consideration of any adjustments) for current and recent Year 12 applicants.

RMIT is committed to providing transparency to the admissions process. In line with this commitment, we provide you with information that will help in making informed choices about your undergraduate study options. Find out more about RMIT’s commitment to admissions transparency.

You must have successfully completed an Australian Year 12 or an equivalent senior secondary school qualification with a minimum average of 65% (see calculator below).

Equivalent qualifications may also include completion of the RMIT Foundation Studies program or a recognised post secondary diploma in the relevant discipline with the required grades.

Meeting the minimum academic requirements does not guarantee entry. Your application will still need to be assessed and accepted.

Entry score calculator
Minimum Score Required

Don’t meet the requirements?

Mathematics; or Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) Units 3 and 4 in Mathematics (any), with a study score of at least 20.

A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.

To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

  • IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
  • TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information.

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus Certificate at RMIT English Worldwide.

Additional information

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Non-academic abilities you’ll need to complete this program

The following information outlines the tasks you will be required to undertake during professional experience placement and on-campus learning activities.

The non-academic abilities listed are provided for your information only and are not entry requirements.

If there are any activities outlined which may be difficult for you to undertake, there are a range of adjustments to your study conditions available to enable and support you to demonstrate these abilities. Please contact the Equitable Learning Service to discuss any adjustments you may require.

By understanding the types of activities you’ll participate in, you can:

  • understand more about the program
  • determine if you may need support during your studies
  • make an informed decision about whether the program is suitable for you

If you are living with disability, long-term illness and/or a mental health condition, we can support you by making adjustments to activities in your program so that you can participate fully in your studies.

To receive learning adjustments, you need to register with Equitable Learning Service

The University considers the wellbeing and safety of all students, staff and the community to be a priority in academic and professional experience placement settings.

Pathways

Animated character in front of RMIT pixel, with a flying degree above their head

Understanding pathways

Even though there are no formal pathways into this course, there are often other ways you can gain entry. For more information, use our Pathways finder or contact Study@RMIT to discuss your options.

Explore pathway finder
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Even though there are no formal pathways into this course, there are often other ways you can gain entry.

Graduates will be equipped to undertake a research degree in biomedical science.

Credit, recognition of prior learning, professional experience and accreditation from a professional body can reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant experience.

Credit and exemptions will be assessed consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.

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You can gain entry to this degree from RMIT Foundation Studies or a range of vocational study programs.

Credit may reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant study experience.

When you are submitting an application, please indicate that you want to be considered for credit and provide detailed course syllabus (also known as course outline), outlining volume of learning, course content and weekly topics, learning objectives/outcomes, assessment types and their weightings, and reference to the learning resources such as prescribed textbooks and recommended readings.

When you successfully complete this program, you may be eligible for entry into an RMIT postgraduate program or RMIT Masters by Research or Doctoral (PhD) program.

Fees

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2022 indicative fees

In 2022, the annual student contribution amount (tuition fee) you will pay for a standard year of full-time study is between AU$3,985 to AU$14,630*.

Additional expenses

  • Student services and amenities fee (SSAF): AU$315 maximum fee for 2022.
  • Other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment.

Annual fee adjustment

Amounts quoted are indicative fees per annum, and are based on a standard year of full-time study (96 credit points). A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load.

Fees are adjusted on an annual basis and these fees should only be used as a guide.

Defer your payment

You may be eligible to apply for a HECS-HELP loan, which can be used to defer payment of up to the full amount of your student contribution fees. You may also be eligible to apply to defer payment of your SSAF through the SA-HELP loan scheme.

Learn more about fees for undergraduate study.

Paying your fees and applying for refunds

For information on how to pay your fees or how to apply for a refund, please see Paying your fees and applying for refunds.

New government eligibility rules in 2022 - low completion rates

From 2022, there are new government rules about eligibility for higher education student funding as part of the Australian Government’s Job-ready Graduates legislation. If you're starting a program in or after 2022 and are enrolled in a Commonwealth supported place (CSP) or have a HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP loan, these changes affect you. For details, please see Low completion rate and government funding.

If you are offered a Commonwealth supported place, your tuition fees are subsidised by the Australian Government.

Your share of the fee (student contribution) is set on an annual basis by the government and is determined by the discipline areas (bands) of your individual enrolled courses, not the overall program.

How much can I expect to pay for my Commonwealth supported place?

The Australian Government has introduced changes to university funding and student contribution fees under its Job-ready Graduates Package. 

The fees in the table below apply to students commencing their program in 2022. Fees for continuing students are available at fees for Commonwealth supported students.

Each course (subject) falls into a band. The band determines the student contribution amount for the course.

Amounts listed in the table below are based on a standard, full-time study load (96 credit points per year) with all courses in the same band. A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load or for enrolment in courses (subjects) from a combination of bands.

You can learn how to calculate your exact tuition fees for units from different bands at Fees for Commonwealth supported students.

Maximum student contribution amount for Commonwealth supported places in 2022 for commencing students

Student contribution band by course (subject)

Maximum annual student contribution amount (per EFTSL) in 2022
Education, Postgraduate Clinical Psychology, English, Mathematics, Statistics, Nursing, Indigenous and Foreign Languages, Agriculture $3,985 per standard year
$498 per standard (12 credit point) course
Allied Health, Other Health, Built Environment, Computing, Visual and Performing Arts, Professional Pathway Psychology, Professional Pathway Social Work, Engineering, Surveying, Environmental Studies, Science, Pathology $8,021 per standard year
$1,002 per standard (12 credit point) course
Dentistry, Medicine, Veterinary Science $11,401 per standard year
$1,425 per standard (12 credit point) course
Law, Accounting, Administration, Economics, Commerce, Communications, Society and Culture $14,630 per standard year
$1,828 per standard (12 credit point) course

HECS-HELP Loans

The Australian Government provides financial assistance via the HECS-HELP loan scheme, which allows eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) to defer payment of up to the full amount of their student contribution.

SA-HELP Loans

You may be eligible to apply to defer payment of the Student services and amenities fee (SSAF) through the SA-HELP loan scheme. If you use SA-HELP, the amount will be added to your accumulated HELP debt.

How does a HELP loan work?

If your FEE-HELP and/or SA-HELP loan application is successful, the Australian Government will pay RMIT, on your behalf, up to 100% of your fees. This amount will become part of your accumulated HELP debt.

You only start repaying your accumulated HELP debt to the Australian Government once you earn above the minimum income threshold for repayment, which is set each year by the Australian Government (this also applies if you are still studying). The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will calculate your compulsory repayment for the year and include this on your income tax notice.

For more information about loan repayment options see Commonwealth assistance (HELP loans) or Study Assist.

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2022 is $315.

For more information about calculating your actual SSAF see Paying SSAF.

You may also be required to purchase other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment. These additional fees and expenses vary from program to program.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

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The annual tuition fee for 2022 is AU$41,280.

The total indicative tuition fee for 2022 commencement is AU$170,880.

In addition to tuition fees you also need to pay for:

You also need to account for your living expenses. Estimate the cost of living in Melbourne.

Find out more details about how fees are calculated and the expected annual increase.

Applying for refunds

Find information on how to apply for a refund as a continuing international student.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Looking for answers or more general information?

Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.

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Acknowledgement of country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.

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aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

More information