Educational goals for biomaterials science and engineering: prospective view.

The research field of biomaterials and surgical implants has matured to a point suggesting that a formal and comprehensive education is now required to handle all professional issues related to biomaterials and implant development. A professional curriculum is proposed for a discipline of biomaterials science and engineering on a graduate level. The curriculum includes the definition of an essential knowledge base and describes two track options for a study period of 3 years. Lists of prerequisites as well as required and suggested courses are presented and discussed. Continuing education courses are presented as examples. A quick vision of the immediate future of the field enforces the need for biomaterials professionals to take the lead in bringing the field into the next century.