A Collaborative Approach to Bioengineering Education

Various philosophical approaches to bioengineering education result in the development of different pathways and programs. The basic underlying assumptions of the University of Washington program are presented along with a discussion of the operation of a nondepartmental approach. Undergraduate and graduate education are discussed in the context of preparing the engineer for participation in collaborative teams. A key element in the success of such teams is the introduction of the physician or life scientist to the principles of engineering. A program to provide such training is described along with a discussion about its impact on biomedical research particularly at this University.