You’ve always had a passion for building things and solving complex problems. Now you’re thinking of pursuing a degree in Biomedical Engineering, but you wonder if it’s worth the investment in Kenya. The short answer is yes, medical engineering is marketable course in Kenya and lucrative field with plenty of opportunities across the country.
As a biomedical engineer, you’ll get to work on cutting-edge technologies that directly help people, like designing prosthetics, medical imaging equipment, or even new pharmaceuticals.
The work is challenging yet rewarding. While the coursework is demanding, involving biology, chemistry, physics, and advanced engineering, the payoff can be huge.
According to recent surveys, medical engineers in Kenya earn an average salary of over KSh200,000 per month.
Even though this field is still relatively new in Kenya, many universities now offer degrees in biomedical engineering or related majors.
Both public and private colleges provide high-quality programs to prepare you for a successful career improving human health through technology and innovation.
So, if you’re passionate about healthcare and want to gain technical skills that translate to a variety of well-paying jobs, medical engineering could be the right path for you.
The future is bright for this fast-emerging field in Kenya.
What Is Medical Engineering?
Medical engineering is an exciting field that combines healthcare and technology. As a medical engineer, you get to design and develop solutions that improve human health.
What do medical engineers do?
Medical engineers apply engineering principles to healthcare. Their work includes designing and developing medical devices like MRI machines, prosthetics, medical imaging equipment and health monitoring devices.
They also develop software like mobile health apps, electronic medical records systems and telemedicine platforms.
Some medical engineers focus on biomechanics, using engineering to study human movement and develop treatments for musculoskeletal conditions.
Others specialize in bioinformatics, using computing to analyze complex biological data. Many work with doctors and scientists to solve clinical problems.
What qualifications do you need?
To become a medical engineer…
You typically need a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering or a related field like electrical engineering or mechanical engineering.
The coursework usually includes biology, anatomy, physics and math.
Some medical engineers get master’s degrees or PhDs in biomedical engineering. Licensing and certification are often required, especially for those who design medical devices.
The job market for medical engineers in Kenya and globally is quite promising.
What is much interesting about this is that…
As technology becomes more integrated into healthcare, the demand for medical engineers will continue to grow.
Therefore, If you are an innovative person and want an in-demand career at the intersection of medicine and tech, medical engineering could be a great choice.
Also Checkout: Best Short Medical Courses In Kenya
Medical Engineering Course Requirements in Kenya
To pursue a career as a medical engineer in Kenya, you’ll need the right education and training.
Medical engineering programs typically require strong performance in high school math and science courses, especially biology, chemistry, and physics.
The requirements vary depending on the institution and the level of study. For example, to pursue a Certificate in Medical Engineering Technology at KMTC, you must have a KCSE Mean Grade of C-, with C- in English or Kiswahili, D in Mathematics and D in Physics/Physical Sciences or Chemistry.
For a bachelor’s degree in medical engineering, you will need to have completed high school and obtained a minimum of a C+ in Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry.
Some colleges may require a minimum grade in these subjects for admission and that should be a certificate.
Once in a program, you can expect a challenging curriculum with courses in engineering, biology, anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology. Hands-on learning, like internships at local hospitals or clinics, provide valuable experience.
Most medical engineering degrees in Kenya take 4 years of full-time study to complete and lead to a bachelor’s degree in medical engineering or a related field like biomedical engineering.
Some schools offer part-time or distance learning options if needed.
What is the fee structure?
Program fees can vary but expect to pay between KES 100,000 to over KES 500,000 per year for a medical engineering degree.
For Some schools they offer scholarships or financial assistance for students with need.
Is Medical Engineering Marketable in Kenya
With a degree and some experience, medical engineers in Kenya earn a median salary of over KES 500,000.
Career opportunities are found in hospitals, medical device companies, research institutions, and universities.
If you have a mind for medicine and engineering, becoming a medical engineer in Kenya can be a rewarding career path.
With the right education and dedication, you’ll gain knowledge and skills to help improve healthcare in your country through technology and innovation.
Top Universities Offering Medical Engineering in Kenya
Universities offering a Degree in medical engineering
If you’re interested in studying Medical Engineering in Kenya, there are some top universities offering programs in this field.
University of Nairobi
The University of Nairobi is Kenya’s oldest and largest university. It offers a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering. This 4-year program focuses on the application of engineering principles to the medical field. Areas of study include biomechanics, biomaterials, clinical engineering and medical imaging.
Kenyatta University
Kenyatta University is a public university located in Nairobi, Kenya. It offers a Bachelor of Technology in Medical Engineering.
This program provides training in the maintenance and repair of medical equipment.
You’ll take courses in anatomy, physiology, medical equipment technology, electronics and computer systems. Practical attachments and internships provide hands-on experience.
Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology
JKUAT is a leading science and technology university in Kenya. It offers a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering.
This program provides a strong foundation in engineering, medicine, biology and technology.
You’ll take courses in medical instrumentation, biosensors, medical imaging, biomechanics and biomaterials. The program includes industrial attachments at hospitals to gain practical skills.
Moi University
Moi University is located in Eldoret, Kenya. It offers a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering.
This 4-year program provides training in the application of engineering principles to medicine and healthcare
Areas of study include medical electronics, medical instrumentation, bioinformatics, and medical imaging. The program includes practical attachments at local hospitals and medical centers.
Medical engineering is an exciting and growing field in Kenya. Earning a degree in this area can open up opportunities to work in hospitals, medical companies and research organizations.
The programs offered provide a balance of engineering, medical and practical skills to prepare you for a career improving human health.
Colleges offering a certificate in medical engineering include:
- Kenya Medical Training College (Machakos, Kilifi, Kisumu, Nairobi and Thika campuses)
- Kenya Institute of Applied Sciences, Eldoret.
- Thika School of medical and Health Sciences
- Eldoret Technical Training Institute (Eldoret)
- St. Mary’s School of Clinical Medicine
- Annex Medical Training Centre (Nakuru)
- Menengai Medical &Training College (Nakuru)
- Clive school of nursing in Chogoria
Colleges offering diploma in medical engineering include:
- Kenya Medical Training College (Nyeri, Nakuru, Eldoret, Nairobi and Thika campuses)
- Clive school of nursing in Chogoria
- Railway Training Institute (Nairobi)
- Thika Institute of Technology (Thika)
- Kisiwa Technical Training Institute (Bungoma)
- Gusii Institute of Technology (Kisii)
- Technical University of Mombasa (Mombasa)
- Annex Medical Training Centre (Nakuru)
- Menengai Medical &Training College (Nakuru)
- Eldoret Technical Training Institute (Eldoret)
- Kenya Institute of Applied Sciences
- Rift Valley Technical Training Institute
- Thika School of medical and Health Sciences
- Kabete Polytechnic Training Institute
- Eldoret National Polytechnic
- Technical University of Mombasa
- Rift Valley Institute of Science and Technology
- College of Tropical medicine and Community Health
- Royal College of Science and Technology
- Mt. Kenya University (Thika)
Medical Engineering Fees Structure and Cost in Kenya
The fees for pursuing a degree in Medical Engineering in Kenya varies depending on the institution you choose to study at.
Generally, fees range from Ksh. 50,000 to over Ksh. 500,000 per year for local students. For international students, the fees are usually higher, ranging from Ksh. 200,000 to over Ksh. 700,000 per year.
Some of the top colleges for Medical Engineering in Kenya and their fee structure include:
Kenyatta University
- Application fee: Ksh. 2,000
- Tuition fee for local students: Ksh. 74,000 per year
- Tuition fee for international students: Ksh. 218,000 per year
University of Nairobi
- Application fee: Ksh. 5,000
- Tuition fee for local students: Ksh. 97,000 per year
- Tuition fee for international students: Ksh. 320,000 per year
Technical University of Kenya
- Application fee: Ksh. 1,000
- Tuition fee for local students: Ksh. 52,000 per year
- Tuition fee for international students: Ksh. 175,000 per year
In addition to tuition fees, you will need to budget for other costs such as accommodation, books, meals, medical insurance, and stationery.
The total cost can range from Ksh. 150,000 to over Ksh. 700,000 per year depending on the institution and program.
Some colleges offer scholarships, bursaries and student loans to help make medical engineering education more affordable and accessible.
It is advisable to check with the colleges you are interested in to find out if you qualify for any financial assistance.
Studying medical engineering in Kenya can be quite pricey, but the high demand for medical engineers and the potential high salary makes it a worthwhile investment.
Is Medical Engineering Marketable in Kenya
Yes, Medical engineering is Marketable in Kenya with many opportunities for those with the right skills and education. While the job market can be competitive, the demand for qualified medical engineers continues to rise as the healthcare sector expands.
Education Requirements
The requirements vary depending on the institution and the level of study. For example, to pursue a Certificate in Medical Engineering Technology at KMTC, you must have a KCSE Mean Grade of C-, with C- in English or Kiswahili, D in Mathematics and D in Physics/Physical Sciences or Chemistry.
For a bachelor’s degree in medical engineering, you will need to have completed high school and obtained a minimum of a C+ in Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry.
To become a medical engineer in Kenya, you’ll need at minimum a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering, medical engineering, or a related field from an accredited university.
Some positions may require a master’s degree or PhD.
Relevant coursework typically includes subjects like anatomy, physiology, biology, physics, chemistry, and engineering.
Practical experience, such as internships, research projects, or entry-level jobs, is also valued.
Job Prospects and Salary
According to recent reports, the job market for medical engineers in Kenya is quite promising, especially in larger cities like Nairobi. Hospitals, medical device companies, government agencies, and universities are frequent employers.
The average salary for an entry-level medical engineer is around KES 250,000 to 350,000 per year, while more experienced engineers can earn KES 500,000 or higher.
Salaries tend to be higher in private companies compared to government or academic institutions.
Licensing and Certification
While not always required, becoming licensed or certified can help demonstrate your competence to employers and allow for career advancement.
The Kenya Medical Laboratory Technicians and Technologists Board offers certification for biomedical equipment technicians.
The Kenya Society of Biomedical Engineers also provides professional certification for engineers.
Some engineers pursue additional credentials from international organizations like the UK-based Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine.
Overall, if you have the necessary technical skills, training, and education, a career as a medical engineer in Kenya can be quite promising and fulfilling. The demand for talent continues to grow, and salaries are on the rise.
With some experience under your belt, you’ll have opportunities to take on more senior roles with greater responsibility and compensation.
The medical engineering field is essential for improving healthcare, and you can be at the forefront of those innovations.
Job Opportunities for Medical Engineers in Kenya
Medical engineering is an in-demand field in Kenya with many job opportunities for qualified candidates.
With a degree in medical engineering, you’ll have the skills and knowledge to work in hospitals, medical companies and research institutions.
Hospitals and Clinics
Hospitals and clinics employ medical engineers to maintain and repair medical equipment like MRI machines, defibrillators, and ventilators.
As a biomedical equipment technician, you would install, inspect, test, maintain and repair medical equipment and tools to ensure they function properly to diagnose and treat patients.
This critical role helps provide quality healthcare services.
Medical Device Companies
Medical device companies that design, manufacture and sell medical equipment and tools hire medical engineers for positions like:
- Field service engineer – Install, maintain and repair medical devices at customer sites like hospitals and clinics. Requires frequent travel to customer locations.
- Product support engineer – Provide technical support to help customers troubleshoot and fix issues with medical devices. May involve on-site visits or remote support.
- R&D engineer – Work as part of a research and development team to design new medical devices and technologies. Requires strong engineering and technical skills.
Research Institutions
Research institutions and universities employ medical engineers to develop and test new medical technologies, equipment and software.
As a research engineer, you would design experiments, build prototypes, conduct tests and clinical trials and analyze results. This role is ideal if you want to advance medical innovation.
With experience, medical engineers in Kenya can advance to leadership roles like project manager, department head or chief medical engineer.
The job outlook for this field is positive due to growth in Kenya’s healthcare sector and demand for improved medical technologies and services
If you have a mind for engineering and a passion for improving healthcare, medical engineering could be a very rewarding career path.
Wrapping up Is Medical Engineering Marketable in Kenya
So there you have it—the lowdown on what it takes to become a medical engineer in Kenya.
While the course isn’t easy, the job opportunities and career prospects make the effort worthwhile.
Between the growing healthcare sector, increased investment in medical technology, and demand for improved medical equipment, medical engineers have a bright future in the country.
If you have a mind for medicine and technology, the patience for the intensive degree program, and a desire to help improve healthcare, medical engineering could be an ideal field for you.
