What is a mechatronics degree
Mechatronics is an emerging field that blends mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and computer science to design, build and operate smart machines. The mechatronics engineering technology degree offered at PennWest California is a multidisciplinary bachelor’s degree program that integrates classroom learning with laboratory-based activities, enabling students to work with the components, systems and technology used in real-world mechatronics jobs.
What will I learn in PennWest California’s mechatronics degree program?
As you can perhaps guess from the name, mechatronics is a combination of “mechanisms” and “electronics.” But a degree in mechatronics incorporates so much more. PennWest California’s mechatronics engineering technology degree program gives you a broad range of knowledge and skills in:
- Manufacturing processes.
- Industrial control principles, including instruments, circuits, components and control techniques.
- Statistics.
- Mechatronic control systems and programmable logic controllers.
- Practical physics, including dynamics and fluid power.
- The physical and chemical properties of materials used in industry.
- Machine design elements and kinematics.
- Process control in plant automation.
- Computer-integrated manufacturing.
Why should I earn a mechatronics degree at PennWest California?
PennWest California’s mechatronics engineering technology degree program was designed around standards set by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology(ETAC of ABET). It is the only four-year bachelor’s degree of its kind in Pennsylvania. It is also the first and only mechatronics bachelor’s degree program in Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education — your most affordable choice for higher education in the state.
Furthermore, PennWest California’s mechatronics engineering technology program is based on a rich history of providing students with relevant, hands-on activities. In fact our on-campus labsare among the top reasons students choose to pursue mechatronics at PennWest California.
PennWest California’s mechatronics engineering technology degree program is advised by a board of industry and academic professionals and maintains key partnershipswith industry leaders:
- Siemens AG, a multinational powerhouse in electronics and electrical engineering.
- FESTO, a leading supplier of pneumatic and electrical automation technology.
- Rockwell Automation, a national provider of industrial automation and information products.
- ANSYS, a Pennsylvania-based developer of engineering simulation software.
How long will it take to earn a mechatronics degree?
For incoming first-year students with no prior college credit, a bachelor’s degree in mechatronics engineering technology from PennWest California can be completed in four years.
An incoming student who already holds an associate degree may be able to cut the time to degree completion in half. If you’ve earned a PennWest California associate degree in robotics engineering technology, or have an associate degree from another college or university that includes adequate math and science coursework, you can transfer your credits to PennWest California and earn your mechatronics engineering degree in just two or more years of additional study.
What kind of careers can I pursue with a mechatronics degree?
The U.S. Department of Labor has deemed mechatronics an emerging growth area for new jobs, and the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry has identified mechatronics as a “high-priority” occupation. The U.S. Department of Defense also predicts a growing need for mechatronics technicians.From advanced manufacturing and robotics to green energy and telecommunications, you’ll find mechatronics degree graduates working with smart technologies and complex machines in a variety of industries. Job titles may include:
- Agricultural technician.
- Automotive technician.
- Telecommunications technician.
- Robotics technician.
- Biomedical engineering technician.
- Wind-turbine installer.
- Logistics technician.
Does PennWest California offer internship opportunities?
Internships are a major component of PennWest California’s mechatronics engineering technology program. Our students gain a wealth of on-the-job experience by participating in industrial, corporate and government internships. PennWest California’s faculty, along with the Career and Professional Development Center, will help you find the internship that best meets your mechatronics career goals.
Do you have further questions about PennWest California’s mechatronics engineering technology degree program?
We hope the above information on “What is a Mechatronics Degree?” answered some of you biggest questions about PennWest California’s bachelor’s degree program. If you have further questions, our admissions counselors are always on hand to help. Please use the Request Info button on this page to submit your query, and we’ll promptly get in touch.
Are you ready to pursue a high-impact degree in mechatronics? Apply to PennWest California’s degree program today.
Mechatronics Explained
What is a Mechatronics Degree?
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Get Hands-on Experience
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The high-quality lab facilities at PennWest California give our mechatronics degree students a competitive edge. Learn more.