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Introduction to Specialisations

A specialisation is a focused collection of courses within a programme that allows you to gain deep, targeted knowledge in a specific sub-field. Normally these courses make up more than 50 percent of a qualification, some of which lead to registration within a certain field. They may be interdisciplinary, professionally oriented, or designed to meet accreditation requirements. Specialisations often restrict elective choice in favour of a clearly defined study plan.

Completed specialisations will appear on your academic transcript.

Please see the main programme link below for further details.

Subject Overview

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.

Knowledge and Skills

Pursuing a PhD at the University gives you access to a high-calibre research community – you may have the opportunity to publish papers, attend international conferences and develop your network in academia and industry.
We welcome research proposals in topics relating to our key areas, including:
- Medical devices and technologies, which involves cutting-edge research, development and translation of innovative medical devices and technologies to clinical and commercial uptake
- Neural Engineering, a multidisciplinary field of engineers, scientists, and clinicians who aim to understand, repair, replace, and enhance the nervous system
- Robotics, research focusing on solving real-world problems by employing robotics science and technologies
- Smart Materials and Structures, the incorporation of smart materials into the design of mechatronic systems

Potential Careers

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.

Plan Schedule / Plan Rules

Disclaimer

Please note that while regulations and programme rules for future academic years may be displayed or made available in advance, they remain subject to change. Official, final approved programme regulations for the upcoming academic year will be available when the University Calendar is published in late October of the preceding year. Any information available prior to Calendar publication should be treated as provisional.