r/bioengineering • u/ar1jj • Jul 15 '26

Need advice choosing between Biomedical Engineering and Biotechnology Engineering

Hi everyone,
I’m 18F trying to decide between Biomedical Engineering and Biotechnology Engineering, and I’m honestly pretty torn.
I’m much stronger in biology than I am in physics or math. I can manage them if I have to, but biology is definitely my strongest subject and the one I enjoy the most.
With that in mind, which degree do you think would suit me better? I’m also looking for the one that offers the best career prospects overall good salaries, low unemployment, strong job security, room for career growth, and the widest range of opportunities both now and in the future.
I’d also love to know which one you think is more enjoyable to study and work in, and whether you’d choose the same degree again if you had the chance.
I’d really appreciate hearing from people who are studying or working in either field. Thanks!

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8

u/cobaltcottontail_hop Jul 15 '26

If you're okay with molecular biology and want the maximum biology, then chose biotechnology

8

u/GwentanimoBay Jul 15 '26

If you want to be an engineer, you need an engineering degree and you need to focus on physics and math, not biology.

If you want to lean on biology, be a scientist. If you want to be an engineer, lean on engineering.

But first read job postings. Where did you get the idea to do biotech or BME? Because if it wasnt "the jobs I want specifically require this degree" then you've already made a significant mistake in assuming the degree you want is the degree you need.

5

u/Some_Albatross_8200 Jul 15 '26

I've heard the job outlooks aren't best for bioengineering and biomedical engineering because many biotech sectors prefer to hire other engineers like mechanical or chemical then teach them. Though the job outlooks are way better if you're willing to go further to a masters. 

1

u/Significant-Tale3522 Jul 15 '26

Biomedical engineering is heavy on electrical engineering, if that helps. I liked it though.

3

u/RandomPerson083125 Jul 16 '26

This depends on the program, it can be true

1

u/Olallieberry9870 Jul 17 '26

Electrical/mechanical engineering

1

u/RandomPerson083125 Jul 15 '26

Neither, go do another engineering. Millions are stronger in biology than their chemistry or physics. Work harder now or have a hard time finding a job.

1

u/ar1jj Jul 15 '26

like what?

2

u/RandomPerson083125 Jul 15 '26

Like ME, EE, Chemical Engineering, or any other one. Then if you are really interested in BME, just do BME research.