2026 Can You Get Licensed With an Online Biomedical Engineering Degree? Requirements, Rules, and What to Know

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Many prospective students wonder if earning a biomedical engineering degree online can qualify them for professional licensure. This concern arises partly because biomedical engineering blends engineering principles with medical sciences, and professional engineering licenses have strict education and examination criteria. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for biomedical engineers is projected to grow 10% from 2022 to 2032, emphasizing demand for qualified professionals. This article clarifies licensure requirements for biomedical engineers with online degrees, exploring relevant rules and how distance education affects eligibility, helping readers plan their careers with accurate, actionable information.

Key Benefits of Getting Licensed with an Online Biomedical Engineering Degree

Licensure validates professional credibility, allowing online biomedical engineering graduates to meet strict industry standards and qualify for specialized roles requiring formal certification.
Licensed professionals gain access to a wider range of employment, including government and advanced research positions, enhancing job mobility across states.
Certified biomedical engineers typically experience higher long-term earning potential and better opportunities for leadership and advancement within competitive healthcare and technology firms.

Can You Get Licensed With an Online Biomedical Engineering Degree?

Licensure with an online biomedical engineering degree is achievable when the program meets accreditation standards and includes required coursework and practical training. Accredited online programs, often recognized by bodies like ABET, cover essential foundational topics and provide virtual or local hands-on experiences crucial for developing technical skills.

Completing these components prepares students to qualify for licensure exams, including the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and the Professional Engineering (PE) exams, as required by licensure boards. Understanding online biomedical engineering degree licensure requirements is essential for ensuring eligibility to advance in this field.

Earning a professional license through an online biomedical engineering program unlocks access to regulated career paths where licensure is mandatory or highly preferred. Licensed engineers tend to hold greater responsibilities, such as leadership roles in designing and regulating medical devices, and they usually see enhanced salary prospects compared to their non-licensed peers. The license also boosts professional credibility and mobility across states.

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Do Licensing Requirements for Biomedical Engineering Vary by State?

Licensing rules for biomedical engineering exist to ensure professionals demonstrate the necessary competence, protecting public safety and maintaining engineering quality. Requirements differ by state, with a 2022 survey from the National Society of Professional Engineers finding that nearly 40% of states have unique licensure standards specifically for biomedical engineers compared to other engineering fields. These differences affect how candidates prepare and qualify for licensure.

Key areas where state-specific biomedical engineering licensing rules can vary include:

Examination requirements: Some states require passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam plus additional biomedical engineering tests, while others accept only general engineering exams. This can influence how prospective engineers plan their exam preparations.
Supervised experience: The required duration and type of supervised internships or work under a licensed engineer range from 2 to 5 years depending on the state. These variations impact the timeline to licensure and type of practical training needed.
Continuing education: States differ in frequency and content of professional development courses required for license renewal, which affects ongoing certification maintenance.
Scope of practice: Definitions of authorized biomedical engineering work vary by state, shaping job responsibilities and legal liability. Understanding these distinctions is critical for career planning.

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Are Online Biomedical Engineering Programs Different From Campus Programs for Licensure?

Online biomedical engineering programs do not inherently affect eligibility for professional licensure compared to campus-based degrees, as long as they hold proper accreditation. Recent data shows that over 60% of engineering firms now recognize online degrees as valid for licensure and hiring, reflecting growing industry acceptance.

Curriculum Consistency: Accredited online and campus programs cover essential subjects such as engineering fundamentals, biology, and medical device regulations. This standardization ensures graduates possess the theoretical knowledge required for licensure exams.
Hands-On Experience: Practical training like lab work and clinical hours remains mandatory and usually requires in-person completion. Many online programs coordinate local internships or on-site sessions to help students fulfill these indispensable requirements.
Assessment Techniques: While online courses often utilize remote proctoring and digital assignments, the rigor and learning outcomes closely track those of traditional in-person assessments, maintaining licensure standards.
Employer Attitudes: Though some skepticism persists, an increasing number of employers accept online degrees for licensure-related positions, mirroring shifts in education delivery and confidence in accredited online programs.

Breakdown of All 2-Year Online Title IV Institutions

Source: U.S. Department of Education, 2023

Does an Online Biomedical Engineering Degree Require Clinical or Practicum Hours?

Online biomedical engineering degrees often include clinical or practicum hours to prepare students for real-world applications and meet licensure requirements. These practical experiences are essential for students to develop the skills and competencies needed for professional practice.

Typical clinical or practicum requirements for online biomedical engineering programs incorporate several key elements that ensure comprehensive training:

Required hours: Clinical hours for biomedical engineering licensure typically range from several hundred to over a thousand, depending on state regulations and professional board standards. This range ensures sufficient exposure to practical settings.
Supervised placements: Students complete hands-on training in medical or engineering environments such as hospitals, research laboratories, or biomedical companies under the supervision of experienced professionals, which builds technical and problem-solving skills.
Skill development: These hours focus on competencies like equipment design, testing protocols, patient safety, and regulatory compliance, pivotal for a biomedical engineer's role.
In-person experience with online delivery: Despite the online format, programs arrange local or regional partnerships to secure placements, bridging in-person experience with virtual coursework-a crucial component for licensure eligibility and professional growth.

Prospective students researching online biomedical engineering practicum requirements should verify their program's support for securing proper placements and understand their state-specific policies on clinical hours. Additionally, for those exploring related fields, the cheapest medical billing and coding program can provide valuable insights into affordable online certification options.

What Licensing Exam Is Required After Earning an Online Biomedical Engineering Degree?

Licensing exams validate a biomedical engineer's professional competency and are essential for career advancement as a licensed engineer. Around 70% of candidates pass the required exam on their first attempt, demonstrating the exam's rigorous yet fair standards.

Below are key points outlining the exam relevant to online biomedical engineering graduates.

Exam Name and Purpose: The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is the initial step toward becoming a licensed professional engineer in the U.S., assessing foundational engineering knowledge critical for practice.
Content Areas: Exam questions cover mathematics, chemistry, biology, ethics, and engineering principles that are directly applicable to biomedical engineering roles.
Format and Duration: Delivered on a computer, the FE exam consists of 110 multiple-choice questions and lasts four hours, allowing candidates time to demonstrate problem-solving skills rather than rote memorization.
Preparation Resources: Many candidates use official study guides and practice exams to familiarize themselves with the test format and content, improving their chances of success.
Retake Policies: While regulations vary by state, most allow multiple attempts, offering flexibility for those who need additional preparation.
Accreditation and Online Degrees: Graduates from ABET-accredited online biomedical engineering programs are equally eligible to sit for the FE exam, ensuring that online education meets professional standards.

Is Supervised Work Experience Required After an Online Biomedical Engineering Degree?

Supervised work experience is generally required after earning an online biomedical engineering degree, particularly for those pursuing licensure. This hands-on training helps graduates apply theoretical knowledge in professional environments, fostering critical skills and ensuring they are prepared for industry challenges. Recent data shows that more than 75% of licensure candidates complete such supervised experience.

Key elements of this process include:

Duration: Typically spans 3 to 8 years depending on state licensing rules, providing sufficient time to develop practical expertise.
Professional supervision: Work is guided by licensed engineers or qualified professionals, ensuring adherence to industry standards and ethical practices.
Work environment: Experience is gained in diverse settings such as hospitals, medical device manufacturers, or research labs to expose candidates to real-world biomedical projects.
Mentorship and skill development: Strong mentorship supports problem-solving abilities, design and testing skills, and understanding of regulatory compliance.
Licensure preparation: This supervised phase equips candidates for professional engineer (PE) examinations and enhances career readiness within the biomedical engineering field.

Does Licensure Reciprocity Apply to Online Biomedical Engineering Graduates?

Licensure reciprocity enables professionals licensed in one state to obtain a license to practice in another without repeating much of the original licensing steps. This flexibility is crucial for biomedical engineering graduates aiming to work across multiple states or relocate throughout their careers.

Several key factors influence whether reciprocity applies to online biomedical engineering graduates, as outlined below.

Eligibility Criteria: Most states require graduation from an accredited program that meets specific educational standards. Whether the degree is completed online or on-campus, meeting these standards is essential for reciprocity consideration.
Program Requirements: Some states impose additional mandates on coursework or clinical experience, which can vary for online degrees. Differences in curriculum components can affect reciprocity eligibility.
State Licensing Agreements: Reciprocity depends on agreements formed through evaluations of other states' licensing standards. Online degrees may face challenges when accrediting bodies or licensing boards do not fully recognize certain online programs.
Application Process: Applying for reciprocity usually involves submitting proof of education, exam results, and previous licensure. Online biomedical engineering graduates should prepare for possible additional documentation or verifications.
Limitations and Additional Requirements: Some states require extra fees, background checks, or supplementary exams for reciprocity. Understanding these potential barriers can prevent surprises during the licensing journey.

Because state licensing boards vary in how they treat online degrees, graduates should closely review state licensing rules for online biomedical engineering degrees before pursuing licensure in a new state. Those interested in related healthcare fields may also explore opportunities through an online nursing degree, which can have different reciprocity pathways.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Online Biomedical Engineering Programs for Licensure?

Online biomedical engineering programs have grown significantly, with STEM enrollments rising over 20% recently. Many students select online options to balance personal commitments while aiming for licensure, making credentialing outcomes a key factor in their decision.

Below is a look at the advantages and challenges these programs present regarding licensure eligibility.

Pros

Flexible scheduling: Students can complete coursework on their own timeline, accommodating work and family while avoiding location constraints.
Increased accessibility: These programs open doors for students without local access to specialized biomedical engineering courses.
Cost efficiency: Online study often reduces expenses related to commuting and housing, making education more affordable.

Cons

Limited hands-on training: Essential lab experiences may be insufficient online, potentially hindering fulfillment of licensure practical requirements.
Restricted professional supervision: Opportunities for direct mentoring by licensed engineers are often limited, impacting regulatory approval.
Perception issues: Some employers may prefer candidates from traditional programs with extensive in-person components, influencing job prospects.

Prospective students should verify that their chosen online program meets accreditation standards and hands-on prerequisites required by licensure authorities to ensure career readiness.

Does Getting Licensed With an Online Biomedical Engineering Degree Affect Salary?

Obtaining licensure with an online biomedical engineering degree can materially enhance earning potential. Industry data shows that licensed biomedical engineers generally earn 10-15% more than their non-licensed counterparts, highlighting significant salary differences with biomedical engineering licensure. This financial advantage stems from increased job responsibilities and professional credibility.

Below are several key ways licensure affects salary and career advancement.

Access to Leadership Positions: Licensed engineers become eligible for management and leadership roles, which usually come with higher compensation. These positions involve overseeing projects and teams, increasing professional influence and pay.
Authority to Approve Engineering Work: Licensure grants the legal ability to sign off on official documents and reports, which boosts job responsibility and can result in salary bonuses or raises.
Specialized Technical Roles: Many advanced biomedical engineering tasks require professional certification, opening doors to niche positions that often offer better pay and greater job satisfaction.
Increased Job Security and Competitiveness: Holding a license enhances employment stability and makes candidates more attractive in a competitive job market, typically leading to raises and retention advantages.

For students pursuing an online biomedical engineering license salary impact is an important factor in deciding whether to undertake licensure, as it directly correlates with career growth. Employers often view licensure as a marker of practical competence and dedication, which can mitigate skepticism about online education formats. Additionally, some companies link professional licensure to eligibility for salary bonuses and promotions, further underscoring its monetary benefits.

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What Jobs Can You Get With or Without a License as an Online Biomedical Engineering Degree Holder?

Licensure significantly influences the range of career opportunities available to those with an online biomedical engineering degree, especially in roles involving public safety and regulatory compliance. While some graduates aim for licensed positions to access advanced responsibilities and higher earnings, others find rewarding careers without pursuing licensure. Approximately 40% of biomedical engineers hold a Professional Engineer (PE) license, often reporting median salaries about 15% higher than non-licensed counterparts.

Below are examples of career paths for both licensed and non-licensed professionals.

Jobs With a License

Clinical Engineer: Responsible for maintaining and ensuring the safety of medical equipment in healthcare settings, licensed clinical engineers are crucial for compliance with health regulations and overseeing equipment performance.
Regulatory Specialist: These professionals navigate complex approval processes for medical devices, requiring a PE license to officially validate designs and ensure adherence to government standards.
Senior Design Engineer: Leading project teams, they design medical technologies and sign off on critical safety assessments, leveraging licensure for enhanced project authority and leadership roles.

Jobs Without a License

Biomedical Device Researcher: Focused on developing new health technologies, researchers typically work in laboratories or product innovation teams without needing licensure.
R&D Engineer: Engaged in creating and refining biomedical products, these engineers drive innovation in manufacturing environments and often advance through expertise rather than official certification.
Quality Assurance Technologist: Responsible for testing and ensuring the reliability of biomedical devices, this role supports product safety and effectiveness without the requirement of a professional license.

What Graduates Say About Getting Licensed with an Online Biomedical Engineering Degree

Braven: "The online biomedical engineering degree program was surprisingly affordable compared to traditional routes, and the cost of licensure was reasonable as well. Completing the coursework remotely allowed me to balance work and study efficiently, making the entire process smooth. Since becoming licensed, I've been able to advance quickly in medical device design, a career I truly enjoy."

Zailor: "Reflecting on my journey, the investment in my online biomedical engineering degree, including licensure fees, felt well worth it for the quality and flexibility I received. The program's structure challenged me intellectually yet accommodated my schedule, which was important as a working parent. Achieving licensure has opened doors in healthcare innovation that I hadn't expected."

Calyx: "Cost considerations were central when I chose an online biomedical engineering degree program and pursuing licensure afterward proved manageable. The rigorous curriculum was demanding but prepared me well for professional certification exams. This education has been pivotal, enabling me to contribute confidently as a licensed engineer in the biotechnology field."

Other Things You Should Know About Biomedical Engineering Degrees

Can an online biomedical engineering degree holder join professional organizations?

Yes, graduates with online biomedical engineering degrees are typically eligible to join major professional organizations such as the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) and other engineering groups. Membership in these organizations provides networking opportunities, access to industry resources, and professional development, which can support career advancement and licensure preparation.

Do online biomedical engineering graduates need to verify accreditation for licensure?

Absolutely. Accreditation of the online biomedical engineering program by a recognized agency, such as ABET, is often required by licensing boards to verify the quality of education. Without attending an accredited program, graduates may face challenges in meeting state licensure prerequisites.

How important is continuing education after licensure for biomedical engineers?

Continuing education is essential for maintaining licensure in biomedical engineering, especially in states where professional engineers must complete ongoing learning credits. Staying updated on technological advancements and regulatory changes ensures competence and compliance within the discipline.

Are there specific ethical standards for biomedical engineers after obtaining licensure?

Yes, licensed biomedical engineers are expected to adhere to strict ethical guidelines related to safety, public welfare, and professional integrity. Many licensing boards require understanding and commitment to codes of ethics established by entities like the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE).