Abstract:

Mechatronics is an essential foundation for the expected growth in automation and manufacturing. There is a demand for undergraduate and graduate education in Mechatronics as the landscape of engineering programs has changed in the past decade, preparing individuals with advanced technical competencies capable of engaging in interdisciplinary research and industry applications. Michigan Tech addresses current industry needs in Mechatronics specialists by developing, in collaboration with industry, and introducing advanced undergraduate and graduate mechatronics curricula. Mechatronics Degrees are prevalent in Japan and Europe but just started gaining momentum in the United States. In 2019, the Department of Applied Computing (AC) in the College of Computing at Michigan Tech pioneered a Master of Science (MS) degree in mechatronics that allows pathways for traditional and technology-oriented engineering students in advanced graduate studies. In addition, students from community colleges participating in articulation agreements with Michigan Tech Mechatronics, Electrical, and Robotics Engineering Technology (MERET) program can enter MS degree in Mechatronics upon completing two years of study and earning a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. In 2020, AC department introduced BS degree in Mechatronics. BS and MS degrees in Mechatronics incorporate innovation educational approaches and are gaining significant momentum with the increase in enrollment in the double digest. Along with standalone degrees in Mechatronics, Michigan Tech introduced Stackable graduate certificates in Mechatronics leading to MS degree in Mechatronics. The details of both degrees, stackable graduate certificates, challenges, and future projections are provided in this article.

Keywords:

Mechatronics, Industrial Robotics, Curriculum development, graduate certificates.