<p>I am going to get at least a masters? I'm going to Rice as a freshmen and I have the AP Credits that it looks like I could complete the BioE degree in three years (with some summer courses) and then get a masters in one more year (4 years total). If I talk to my advisor and they agree that this is a feasible plan would BioE be more attractive?
Edit: Also, as far as I'm aware I can also complete the BS ChemE or MechE degrees in three years as well but I'm not sure if I can get the Masters in BioE in only one year then. Plus since my interest lie solidly within the realm of bioengineering would it really be advantageous to stray into another field for three years? If I had to pick between ChemE or MechE it would be Chem because I'm not so much interested in instrumentation as I am in cellular/tissue/genetic engineering.</p>
<p>bumpbumpbump</p>
<p>Don’t rush through undergrad; there’s really no hurry. If you have APs it’s possible to experience college first before setting out on a dedicated path towards a quick degree. I started in engineering first semester, took non-engineering classes second semester, and then made my way back for sophomore year. I’m currently in civil, so there are probably a lot more pre-req’s and harder classes overall for BioE for your BioE, but the idea of leaving possibilities open applies to any undergrad course of study.</p>
<p>I wouldn’t know why BioE is even discouraged at all. Yeah, it’s very competitive, but from what I’ve seen the best students (i.e. top quartile in GPA + experience) will get good jobs in any field, no matter what the economy looks like. Don’t listen if people tell you that you can’t find work. If you’re better than your peers, you’ll get plenty of offers. Period.</p>
<p>There’s not problem with that route but remember to keep your grades up and enjoy college. Even if it takes 5 years you will be well off. </p>
<p>Biomedical engineers are expected to have 21 percent employment growth over the projections decade, much faster than the average for all occupations. The aging of the population and the focus on health issues will drive demand for better medical devices and equipment designed by biomedical engineers. Along with the demand for more sophisticated medical equipment and procedures, an increased concern for cost-effectiveness will boost demand for biomedical engineers, particularly in pharmaceutical manufacturing and related industries. However, because of the growing interest in this field, the number of degrees granted in biomedical engineering has increased greatly. Biomedical engineers, particularly those with only a bachelor’s degree, may face competition for jobs. Unlike many other engineering specialties, a graduate degree is recommended or required for many entry-level jobs.
[url=<a href=“http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos027.htm]Engineers[/url”>http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos027.htm]Engineers[/url</a>]</p>
<p>A master’s degree will help you greatly, but is not necessary for finding work.</p>
<p>So with a masters I will be sufficiently specialized to be attractive to employers? Also I’m not rushing through my undergrad I just don’t see the point of retaking classes that I’ve APed out of or of taking a whole bunch of unnecessary electives.</p>
<p>Stick to one of ChemE, EE, MechE, or CivE. Almost every other branch of engineering including BioE is a linear combination of those four. There is such a thing as specializing too early.</p>
<p>Edit: I forgot to mention, that only applies as an undergrad.</p>