Program Overview

Introduction to the Bachelor Program in Technical Medicine

The Bachelor program in Technical Medicine is a unique, interdisciplinary program that combines medical and technical sciences. The program is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to contribute to the development and application of medical technology.

Program Structure

The program is divided into three years, with each year consisting of four modules of ten weeks each. The modules are designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the technical and medical aspects of healthcare.

Year 1

• Module 1: Foundations of Technical Medicine (I) - 15 EC This module introduces students to the basics of technical medicine, including the human body as a logical and coherent system, and the role of technology in measuring, understanding, and influencing this system.
• Module 2: Foundations of Technical Medicine (II) - 15 EC This module delves deeper into the foundations of technical medicine, covering topics such as the body's internal balance, pharmacology, and the analysis of medical problems.
• Module 3: Thorax - Respiratory - 15 EC This module focuses on the respiratory system, including its anatomy, physiology, and associated technologies for diagnosis and treatment.
• Module 4: Thorax - Cardiovascular - 15 EC This module explores the cardiovascular system, covering its anatomy, physiology, and related technologies, as well as the student's first clinical experience in a hospital or healthcare setting.

Year 2

• Module 5: Abdomen - Digestive System and Abdominal Organs - 15 EC This module shifts the focus to the abdominal cavity and the digestive system, including the anatomy, physiology, and technological aspects of these systems.
• Module 6: Pelvis - Pelvic Organs and Medical Imaging - 15 EC This module centers on the pelvic region, including its anatomy, the interaction with abdominal organs, and medical imaging techniques such as ultrasound and endoscopy.
• Module 7: Neural - The Nervous System - 15 EC This module delves into the structure and function of the central nervous system, neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and neurological disorders, along with relevant technologies like EEG and MRI.
• Module 8: Technical Medicine in Practice - 15 EC This module addresses the introduction of new technology into healthcare, including change management, the role of Artificial Intelligence, and ethical considerations in medical innovation.

Year 3

• Module 9: Minor - 15 EC Students have the opportunity to follow a minor at the University of Twente or another university, allowing for specialization or broadening of their knowledge based on their interests and future plans.
• Module 10: The Musculoskeletal System - 15 EC This module explores the musculoskeletal system, including bones, muscles, and joints, and the role of the nervous system in movement, along with biomechanical forces and muscle dynamics.
• Module 11: Application of Technical Medicine (Oncology) - 15 EC This module focuses on oncology, covering the origins of cancer, technological treatments like radiotherapy, and the analysis of a patient case to understand how innovations can improve care.
• Module 12: Technical Medicine Assignment (TGA) - 15 EC The final module involves a ten-week full-time project where students work on a clinical question from practice, often in collaboration with a medical specialist, to develop and apply technical medicine skills.

Facilities in the TechMed Centre

The TechMed Centre at the University of Twente is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including simulation centers, to prepare students for independent patient treatment. The centre features an operating room, intensive care unit, and various simulators for medical procedures, providing a realistic environment for training.

First-Time University Students

For first-year students, the university experience can be overwhelming. The program is structured to support students, with each year divided into modules that cover thematic areas, combining medical, technical, and professional development aspects. Students earn study points (EC) for each module completed, with 60 points per year. To progress to the second year, students must achieve at least 45 study points, including specific requirements in mathematics and clinical skills.

Conclusion

The Bachelor program in Technical Medicine at the University of Twente offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education, combining technical and medical sciences to prepare students for careers in healthcare technology and innovation. With its unique structure, state-of-the-art facilities, and focus on practical application, the program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to make a significant impact in the field of technical medicine.