See Electronics Technology (ET) or Electronics Engineering Technology (EET) or Telecommunication Networks Technology (TNT) for information on related programs. Each program utilizes a similar first-year course sequence.

Program Description

Mechatronics (MET) is defined as the integration of electronics, computer control and electromechanical devices and is part of the Electronics Technology (ET) program. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the areas of robotics, industrial manufacturing instrumentation, process control automation and mechanalysis.

Through mechanalysis a technician may perform predictive and preventive maintenance on mechanical and electromechanical devices and systems. Problems associated with vibration, balance and bearing wear can be predicted and addressed before catastrophic failure occurs.

Also covered in this program option are the areas of Robotics, Biometrics, Telematics and Informatics. Biometrics is the technology which automates the use of physiological or behavioral characteristics to determine or verify identity. Biometric security technology like speech recognition, fingerprint and retina scanning are currently used to access sensitive areas in computer systems or facilities. Informatics is the use of information technology to gather and process data from mechanical systems while Telematics is the combination of telecommunications and computer systems servicing that data. Robotic systems using electric, hydraulic and pneumatic actuators are integrated into microcontroller and computer distributed control systems (DCS).

Graduates may find employment as failure analysis technicians, field service technicians, robotics and automation technicians, engineering process technicians or electromechanical technicians. Employment positions as technicians and specialists in the areas of computer security systems and automotive electronic control systems are also possible.

Entry into the Program

Please apply to the Admissions Office. Students entering the program should have one year of high school algebra before starting the course sequence. Students who lack this preparation should take additional review classes offered at the college. Students usually enter the program at the beginning of Fall Quarter. However, persons with prior experience or training in electronics may apply for advanced standing and start the program in Winter or Spring Quarter. Advanced standing is awarded to individuals who pass departmental qualifying exams.

For more information, contact the Department Chair or the Admissions Office.