Health

e-health is an exciting area as it contributes to the health of people in remote communities and other parts of the world. Take telemedicine for instance - the science of providing medical services via modern communications networks. Australia has taken a leading role in this area, with 30 telehealth clinics operating in WA alone. In fact the world's first e-medicine research centre was established in WA in 2005 at Edith Cowan University.

Researchers at this centre are working on Star Trek-style portable devices, futuristic virtual surgical training tools and biosecurity innovations - in addition to low-cost diagnostic imaging devices for eye and ear health, x-ray tools and virtual-reality equipment for training in surgery. Tele-enabled equipment such as cameras, stethoscopes, ophthalmoscopes, spirometers and electrocardiograms are used to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of illnesses.

The medical devices industry plays a vital role by developing life-saving products ranging from pacemakers, artificial joints and drug-coated stents to wheelchairs and cochlear implants. The significant overlap in technologies means that many firms in the industry can be classified as biotechnological, pharmaceutical, medical or dental device companies. This provides even greater scope for graduates seeking a career in ICT.