GW degree program looks to speed medical devices to market

Consumer electronics makers focus on high volumes and development cycles measured in months, often relying on open-source software. In contrast, U.S.-based medical device manufacturers experience three- to five-year development cycles, as they focus on reliability and security while pursuing product differentiation through proprietary software.

In fact, according to George Washington University by way of Newswise, the average length of time for premarket approval of a new medical device in the U.S. is four and a half years, nearly five times longer than in Europe.

Now, GW wants to do something about that and has launched a master of engineering degree program in regulatory biomedical engineering (rBME). The interdisciplinary program is offered through GW’s Department of Biomedical Engineering in the School of Engineering and Applied Science in partnership with the School of Medicine and Health Sciences Regulatory Affairs Program.

“Our new master of regulatory biomedical engineering program addresses the important role that innovation, entrepreneurship, and product approval play in getting technologies into the market, where they actually can improve healthcare and save lives,” said Igor Efimov, chair of the Department of Biomedical Engineering and the Alisann and Terry Collins Professor of Biomedical Engineering, in a press release. “Ultimately, product approval is key to getting the technologies into the market, and this program is designed to prepare engineers to understand the product approval process and the process of translating their research to the bedside.”

“The growth of the medical device industry is resulting in an increased demand for engineers who understand the regulatory landscape,” added Daniela Drago, director of the Regulatory Affairs Program in the School of Medicine and Health Sciences. “SMHS’s program in regulatory affairs has experienced a three-fold increase in enrollment in the past 18 months, which reflects the demand for talent in this industry. We are pleased to be working with the School of Engineering and Applied Science to harness new regulatory talent.”

The 30-credit program includes biomedical engineering coursework and a practicum, courses in regulatory issues, and patent law classes for engineers. Graduates will be equipped to provide in-house regulatory expertise to device companies or to join government regulatory and compliance institutions.

“We’re within walking distance of many patent law firms on K Street and only a Metro ride from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the Food and Drug Administration,” Dr. Efimov said. “That proximity gives us the opportunity to develop a one-of-a-kind regulatory engineering program.”