Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronics

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronics

Mechatronics is defined as the integration of manufacturing engineering with electronics and computer control. An increasing number of modern products and processes rely on the interaction of complex mechanical, electronic and computer components. Industrial robots, cash dispensing machines and intricate healthcare devices incorporate all of these technologies. The efficient design, manufacture and maintenance of these systems require the contribution of technicians and engineers with a broad range of skills in mechanical, electronic and computer engineering.

This course has been developed in direct response to industrial demand for technicians with multi-disciplinary skills. It offers you the unique opportunity of becoming trained technicians in this rapidly developing field.

When you graduate from this degree you should be capable of integrating the disciplines of mechanical, electronic and computer engineering. An emphasis on teamwork and a broad technical ability will make you an invaluable link between professionals with diverse engineering skills.

Minimum Entry Requirements

Leaving Certificate

Grade D3 at ordinary level in five subjects in the Leaving Certificate examination. Two of these subjects must be Mathematics and a language (English or Irish).

FETAC

Any FETAC level 5 qualification is acceptable. Applicants to this programme are required, however, to have the module Mathematics for Engineering (C20174) or Mathematics (C20139) or Mathematics for Computing (C20175) included in their award or alternatively have Leaving Certificate Mathematics.

Modules

Year 1

Engineering Mathematics, Engineering Science & Energy Sustainability, Engineering Mechanics, Electronic Technology, Engineering Workshop, Drawing and CAD, Communications and Computer Applications.

Year 2 – Semester 1

Engineering Mathematics, Instrumentation, Mechanics of Materials, Electronic Technology, Computer Technology, Computer Aided Design.

Year 2 – Semester 2

Control and Power Technology, Electrical Technology, Mechanics of Machines, Costing, Mechatronics Practice.

Year 3 – Semester 1

Quantitative Methods, Control and Automation, Mechatronics System Design, Human Machine Interfaces, Business and Project Management, Mechatronics Mathematics, Mechatronics Project.

Year 3 – Semester 2

Mechatronics Mathematics, Control and Automation, Mechatronics System, Computer Networks, Manufacturing Systems and Organisation Management, Mechatronics Project.

Projects/Practicals

Most modules incorporate practical elements in which you develop ‘hands-on’ experience of areas including robotics, electronics assembly, computer aided design, mechanics workshop, microprocessors, hydraulics, pneumatics and electrical machines. To develop teamwork skills, groups of students undertake short mechatronics projects structured within a realistic project management framework. In the final year, you will individually undertake a project incorporating the design and construction of a complete mechatronics system.

Progression

When you graduate from this programme you are eligible to apply to join the one-year, add-on Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Integrated Manufacturing Systems (Level 8) programme at AIT, or related Level 8 programmes at other third-level institutions.

Professional Recognition

As a graduate of the Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronics, you are eligible to apply to Engineers Ireland to use the registered professional title of Associate Engineer.

Career Opportunities

As a mechatronics technician you can expect to find employment with any company that uses machines to assemble or manufacture products. Your work will generally involve the installation and on-going maintenance of computer controlled equipment such as robotic devices.

Additional Information

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