Mechatronics Technology Degree Programs

Mechatronics technology is a complex interdisciplinary field that combines the study of mechanics, electronics, automation and computers. Students in a mechatronics technology degree program will be prepared to work with electromechanical and automated equipment to create industrial and commercial products. The most popular mechatronics technology degree program is an associate's degree, but bachelor's degrees in mechatronics engineering technology are also common.

Associate of Applied Science in Mechatronics Technology

An AAS in mechatronics technology program teaches students the latest technologies and skills required by manufacturers. Students receive instruction in the installation, troubleshooting and maintenance of electromechanical equipment and manufacturing machinery. The curriculum focuses on the technical aspects of the profession in addition to incorporating technical writing and advanced mathematics classes.

Educational Prerequisites
Prospective students applying to a mechatronics technology program need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Along with the completed application, students need to submit official transcripts from high school or any previously attended colleges. Some programs may require college entrance exam scores, or the student may take a proficiency test administered by the college.

Program Coursework
Many programs provide students with both hands-on and computer-simulated instruction. The following classes are typical in a mechatronics technology program:

Automatic controls and robotics Pneumatics and hydraulics Industrial electronics Digital and analog circuits Programmable controllers Hand and machine tools Motor controls

Career Outlook and Salary Info

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment opportunities in engineering technology, of which mechatronics is a part, were expected to grow 5% between 2008 and 2018 (www.bls.gov). The average annual salary for electromechanical technicians, including mechatronics technicians, was $46,310 in May 2008.

Bachelor of Science in Mechatronics Engineering Technology

A Bachelor of Science in Mechatronics Engineering Technology combines mechanical and electrical engineering with science, mathematics and communications. Students in these bachelor's degree programs are able to focus on specific areas of interest in the field, such as

engineering design and analysis, digital control systems or manufacturing maintenance. An internship and senior project are typically part of the program requirements.

Educational Prerequisites
Admission requirements vary depending on whether the student is a recent high school graduate or transferring from another college. Applicants with a recent high school diploma or GED must submit an official transcript and college entrance exam scores, in addition to a completed application. Transfer students must submit a high school transcript or GED scores, a completed application and an official college transcript.

Program Coursework
In addition to the core requirements in mathematics, science, communications and the program major, students must complete general education classes and electives. Required coursework for the major includes:

Process control Machine automation Electronics Linear circuits Computer-aided design (CAD) Manufacturing processes

Continuing Education
Individuals interested in continuing their study of mechatronics may consider master's degree programs in mechatronics systems engineering or in mechanical engineering with a concentration in mechatronics. Doctoral programs in mechatronics are also available. These programs train mechatronics technicians for careers in engineering, research or academia.