Swansea University

What you'll study

This undergraduate degree covers the engineering and clinical aspects of rehabilitation and assistive technology. Modules build core knowledge in anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, materials and electronics, alongside specialist topics such as prosthetics and orthotics, sensor systems, rehabilitation robotics, human factors and universal design.

• Foundations of healthcare science: human anatomy, physiology, pathology and clinical governance principles that underpin safe practice.
• Engineering for rehabilitation: mechanics, biomaterials, CAD/CAM, digital fabrication and design for manufacture applied to orthoses, prostheses and assistive devices.
• Sensors and signal processing: instrumentation, wearable sensors, data acquisition and basic programming for monitoring movement and physiological signals.
• Rehabilitation technologies: assistive technology, mobility aids, seating and pressure care, functional electrical stimulation and rehabilitation robotics.
• Clinical practice and professional skills: patient assessment, clinical measurement, communication skills, ethics, multidisciplinary team working and clinical placement preparation.
• Research methods and project work: statistics, experimental design and an independent final-year project that typically involves a practical, clinical or design-led study.

The programme balances campus-based laboratory and workshop teaching (biomechanics lab, electronics and prototyping facilities) with supervised clinical placements in NHS or community settings. Practical classes emphasise hands-on fabrication, measurement and user-centred design. Assessment methods include practical reports, design portfolios, exams and an honours project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold A-levels (or recognised equivalent such as BTEC or Access to HE) with a preference for qualifications that include a science, engineering or mathematics subject. Typical offers also accept a combination of qualifications including BTECs and level 3 vocational awards. Mature applicants and those with relevant work or healthcare experience are considered on an individual basis.

• Essential: competence in numeracy and communication; many applicants have studied at least one science or maths subject at level 3.
• GCSEs: a good standard of English and mathematics is expected (or recognised functional skills equivalents).
• Evidence of interest in healthcare/engineering through work experience, voluntary work or relevant employment is advantageous.
• All students undertaking clinical placements must meet occupational health requirements and a satisfactory DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check where relevant.

Career prospects

Graduates work across the interface of engineering and health. Typical roles include rehabilitation engineer, assistive technology specialist, prosthetics and orthotics technician assistant, clinical technologist in healthcare science, product development or quality roles within medical device companies, and research/support roles in academic or clinical research teams.

Many graduates progress to further professional training (for example postgraduate qualifications in clinical science, prosthetics and orthotics or biomedical engineering) or take up NHS posts supporting multidisciplinary rehabilitation services. Career pathways also include roles in industry (design, testing and regulatory affairs), charities and public-sector assistive technology services.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea University offers interdisciplinary teaching that reflects close working between engineering, life sciences and clinical partners. Students benefit from specialist facilities such as biomechanics and movement analysis laboratories, prototyping and electronics workshops, and research centres focused on assistive technology and connected health. The university has established links with NHS Wales, local health boards and industry partners, providing opportunities for clinical placements and applied projects.

The programme emphasises practical skills, user-centred design and real-world problem solving, supported by academic staff with experience in rehabilitation engineering and clinical collaboration. Swansea’s campus environment and student support services aim to help learners develop the professional competencies needed for careers in healthcare science, research and medical technology.