Abstract:

Key to digital transformation, Mechatronics is the synergistic integration of electrical and mechanical engineering and engineering technology, industrial robotics, advanced controls, automation, and computational hardware and software, in the design of products and processes. Such a combination of technical competencies that brings the breadth of knowledge across a broad spectrum of engineering, engineering technology, and computing disciplines is an essential requirement for graduates looking to work at the digital factory of the future in the paradigm which is becoming known as Industry 4.0. Mechatronics is an essential foundation for the expected growth across a broad spectrum of industry sectors, including but not limited to automotive, manufacturing, defense, medical, and aerospace. A mechatronics degree is central to smart manufacturing and other high-tech industries, employing technologies ranging from industrial robots and autonomous vehicles to process control and utility power systems. Knowledge - versatile Mechatronics specialist who works on designing, manufacturing, and maintaining products and systems that rely on this interrelated system of components. Professionals who understand how these technologies work together are in high demand worldwide.

The Mechatronics, Electrical and Robotics Engineering Technology (MERET) program in the Department of Applied Computing at Michigan Technological University (Michigan Tech) and the Mechatronics and Robotics (MR) program at Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences (HHN) are establishing undergraduate articulation agreement to enable students’ exchange program. This international student exchange program will provide students from both universities with the opportunity to broaden their scope of knowledge, study cutting-edge technologies, and to expand their cultural diversity. In addition, it gives university students a chance to develop their work experience by seeing how their studying profession is practiced in another country, gain cultural experience in their studies, and provide a chance to travel abroad while completing their degree. On the institutional level, this program will further promote internationalization and provide opportunities for expanding intercultural skills and diversity of knowledge. In addition to this undergraduate initiative, Michigan Tech and HHN are collaborating to develop and introduce the dual-degree program in mechatronics for master's students at both universities. Participants of this new dual degree will be able to take courses and conduct research at both institutions. Upon graduation, the students will be acknowledged with a dual diploma from Germany and United States. In this paper, the authors provide the details of both initiatives, implemented strategies, and future projections.

Keywords:

International collaboration in education, mechatronics, student exchange program, dual degree.