Online Mechatronics Degree Information: Program Overviews

Mechatronics is a cross-disciplinary field of study, and degree programs are extremely rare online. Students interested in pursuing study in this field online can do so by enrolling in a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology program, most of which integrate courses in mechatronics into the curriculum.

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology Program Overview

Those who want to pursue an online degree that features concepts of mechatronics can do so through a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Electrical Engineering Technology (EET). In addition to mechatronics work, this program emphasizes core EET concepts such as microprocessor design, signal processing, digital electronics, analog electronics, programming and communication systems. Graduates are prepared to work as consultants, researchers or developers in a variety of industries. Applicants must have a high-school diploma or its GED equivalency to be admitted into the program.

Program Information and Requirements

The average length of an M.S. in EET program is 126-140 semester-hours, and it can be completed in about four years for full-time students. While coursework can be completed online, some programs require students to attend in-person lab sessions. Some programs also require them to take exams under the supervision of an assigned proctor in the area in which they live.
Students must have access to a computer with a high-speed Internet connection, updated operating system and satisfactory Web-browser. Course material is often delivered through streaming video and downloadable multimedia, so the computer must have video and audio playback capabilities.

List of Common Courses

These programs have general education requirements as part of the curriculum, including English, mathematics, humanities, social sciences and natural sciences. Some core, general education and elective classes may be available online, depending on the school.

Mechatronics Course

This course covers the multi-disciplinary engineering field that draws from computer, electrical, mechanical, control and systems design engineering fields. Concepts covered include signal processing and conditioning, transducers, sensors, actuators, dynamic system response, systems models and controllers.

Microprocessor Systems Engineering Course

Closely related to a class in mechatronics, this course emphasizes personal computer microprocessors and the hardware and software that accompany them from a systems-operating perspective. Students learn the classifications of computer memory as well as various interface applications.

Career Information for Graduates

Graduates from a B.S. in Electrical Engineering Technology program can gain entry-level employment as an electrical engineer. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the annual wages for this occupation ranged from $53,510-$126,810 with a median annual salary of $83,110 as of May 2009. The BLS also reported that the employment level for this occupation is expected to rise by two percent between 2008 and 2018 (www.bls.gov).