Technical Certificate
Contact Information: Program Office 615-353-3475

Mechatronics is an emerging field of engineering technology that integrates electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, control engineering and information technology. Mechatronics combines these areas of engineering to allow the design, development and application of “smart devices” in an integrated, cross-disciplinary manner. The mechatronics concept establishes basic principles for a contemporary engineering design methodology.

The name Mechatronics stems from mechanical and electronics and is a relatively new approach to product design and development, merging the principles of electrical, mechanical, computer and industrial engineering. It addresses the four interconnected disciplines used for all complex modern devices. Mechatronic systems are typically composed of traditional mechanical and electrical components but are referred to as “smart” devices or systems because of the incorporation of sensors, actuators, and computer control systems. Over the years, the term “mechatronics” has come to mean the integrated methodology for designing products that exhibit fast, precise performance.

Graduates of the Mechatronics Technical Certificate Program should be able to:

• Develop skills to work as a technician in an integrated multidisciplinary industrial environment.
• Acquire the knowledge and hands-on training in electronics, mechanics, and computers to work in a variety of industrial and manufacturing related business.
• Complete their preparation for the Level 1 Certification Examination to become a certified Siemens Mechatronics System Assistant.

Career Opportunities

Mechatronics engineers can work in any company that develops, designs or manufactures and markets “smart” devices. Opportunities exist in manufacturing, sales and as well as research. Mechatronic devices have crept into everyday life. Mechatronic devices can be found in medicine and surgery, agriculture, buildings, homes, automobiles, the toy and entertainment industry, intelligent aids for the elderly and disabled.

Transfer/Advising

This certificate is designed so that a student can apply all of the required courses toward a Nashville State A.A.S. degree in Electrical Engineering Technology. A student who plans to apply the certificate toward an A.A.S. degree should consult his/her advisor about articulation options.

Certificate Requirements

Four (4) classes totaling 16 credit hours (4 credit hours each) is required for graduation.