Conjoint: BA/BE(Hons) specialisation in Mechatronics Engineering

Mechatronics blends the disciplines of Mechanical, Electronics, Computer, and Software Engineering; its interdisciplinary approach means that practitioners tend to be generalists who can apply their skills to many roles and industries.

The realm of mechatronics engineering encompasses the design of economical, efficient systems. Mechatronic engineers develop select sensors and actuators, control algorithms, and advanced functional materials for mechanical systems in a variety of industries. These include anti-locking brakes and engine control units in transportation, surgical robots and artificial hearts for healthcare, and small smart components for cameras and mobile phones.

This specialisation is offered by our department, which is affiliated with many of the University’s well-known research areas, groups, labs and experts, such as the Centre for Advanced Composite Materials, the Innovative Manufacturing and Materials Programme, the Laboratory for Industry 4.0 Smart Manufacturing Systems.

A Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Mechatronics Engineering offers a broader range of study than most specialisations, ensuring that there’ll be variety throughout your time with us. The specialisation covers aspects of Mechanical, Electronics, Computer and Software Engineering. A typical programme tends to involve:
- Engineering and professional fundamentals in your first year
- An emphasis on Mechanical Engineering in your second year
- A balance of Mechanical, Electrical and Computer Engineering in your third year
- More freedom to choose from a range of electives alongside your final fourth-year project

Core Mechatronics topics tend to include software design, sensors and actuators, signal processing, analog and digital circuit design, microcontroller systems, systems modelling, digital control and industrial automation. These fundamentals give you the right knowledge to understand: the mechanical behaviour of robots and smart systems; the intelligence of motion sensors; autonomous systems; and prototyping and product design.

All our BE(Hons) specialisations are accredited by Engineering NZ, so your qualification will be recognised in many countries.

Mechatronics Engineering may be a relatively new, niche field of study, but has risen to prominence, becoming a recognised discipline with degree programmes being offered in Japan, the US, Europe and Australia. This in turn opens up opportunities for Mechatronics graduates, including postgraduate study. Our students are working in companies of all sizes and fields – from start-ups to multinational corporations, in areas from research to high-value manufacturing. These organisations are invested in the creation and implementation of smart devices, machines, processes and systems. The often-expressed desire to be at the forefront of a high-tech, knowledge-based economy opens plenty of career options that require diverse, multi-skilled generalists.