Medical Technology, Technical Healthcare

Students in this field of study generally deal with medical technology, with technologies for oral surgery, for better hearing or vision or for regaining mobility (orthopedics or rehabilitation technology). The degree programs offered cover a wide spectrum of research and development, ranging from processes and device technology for rapid and precise diagnosis and gentle therapy to analysis, modeling and simulation of living systems and subsystems through to the development of biomaterials and organ replacements.

The more generalist medical technology, for example, develops solutions for requirements from medical practice (diagnosis and treatment) and implements them in industrial products. Examples of this include imaging methods such as positron emission tomography (PET), virtual training simulations for the training of doctors, laser therapy in ophthalmology, neurotechnical implants, the development of biocompatible materials or endoscopic surgical methods. Topics from data science and computer science are also increasingly playing a role.

Other technical health care courses focus on specific technologies, for example to compensate for certain health restrictions, cure diseases or increase performance (“optotechnology” or “orthobionics”, for example).

The bachelor's and master's degree programs are offered at technical colleges and universities. Course names are: “Biomedical Engineering”, “Sports Medical Engineering”, “Biomedical Engineering” or “Dental Technology”. Specializations are possible in the master's program, such as “Medical Orthobionics”, “Hearing Acoustics and Audiological Technology” or “Micromedical Technology”. At some universities, a practice-integrated dual course of study is also possible.

The bachelor's program offers modules from natural sciences (medicine) and Technology (Mathematics, Physics, Anatomy, Physiology, Computer Science, Materials Technology, Technical Mechanics, Manufacturing Technology). In addition, there are basic business knowledge and foreign languages. The curriculum can also include content from the social sector, as well as internships and project work.

Depending on the content, an in-depth study course can follow with modules, for example, in Biomechanics, Medical Microsystems Technology, Control and Control Technology, Electrical Engineering, Medical device Engineering, Biotelemetry, Lightweight Construction, Technical Orthopedics and Rehabilitation Technology, Hearing Acoustics, Ophthalmic Optics, Biocompatible Materials, Cardiotechnology, Digital image and Signal processing , Robotic systems, Environmental and Hygiene Technology, Medical Safety Technology, Quality Management.

Internships are an integral part of your studies at both technical colleges and universities.

At universities of applied sciences, a preliminary internship is sometimes required.

Medical Technology Engineers work in the medical and healthcare industry, in research and development, production, assembly, service and sales. They also find employment in hospitals, clinics, sanatoriums and laboratories. There are also jobs in engineering offices, consulting firms, software houses and even insurance companies.