Mechatronics Engineering Technology
The Mechatronics Engineering Technology curriculum prepares individuals for employment as technicians in engineering fields requiring electrical, mechanical, and computer skills. Mechatronics Engineering technicians assist in designing, developing, testing, process design and improvement, troubleshooting and complex engineering repair, manufacturing, and automated supply chain systems and processes. Emphasis is placed on the integration of theory and hands-on application of engineering principles.
In addition to coursework in engineering fundamentals, basic manufacturing, electricity, computers, mathematics, and physics, students develop their critical thinking, planning, problem-solving, oral and written communications.
Graduates of the curriculum will find employment opportunities in industrial automated systems maintenance and equipment manufacturing including assembly, testing, start-up, troubleshooting, repair, and upgrades of machinery and the associated control system. Graduates may also find employment in automated Supply Chain facilities. Graduates will be eligible to take various exams for nationally recognized PMMI Mechatronics Certifications. Also Siemens Mechatronics Level 1, Siemens Mechatronics Level 2.
For more details about Central Piedmont Mechatronics visit the Mechatronics Engineering Technology website.
For specific information about potential positions and wages in mechatronics engineering technology employment, visit the Central Piedmont Career Coach website.
Mechatronics Engineering Technology (A40350)
Degree Awarded
The Associate in Applied Science Degree-Mechatronics Engineering Technology is awarded by the College upon completing this program.
Admissions
- A high school diploma or equivalent is required. High school students preparing for an engineering technology program should complete algebra, geometry, and advanced mathematics courses. Skills and proficiencies should be developed in writing, computer literacy, and science.
- Placement tests in English and mathematics determine the entry-level courses that match individual needs. Developmental Studies English and mathematics courses are available for students to build basic skills and knowledge.
- A counseling/orientation appointment follows placement testing.
- Many courses have prerequisites or co-requisites; check the Courses section for details.
Notes
The Mechatronics Engineering Technology curriculum at Central Piedmont provides a basic background in mechanical, electrical and computer skills and, depending on the track, specialized instruction in each of these areas. Topics include CAD, basic computer skills, safety, automation, programmable logic controllers, instrumentation, hydraulics and pneumatics, mechanical drives, motors and controls, and basic electricity. The latest equipment is used to provide skills in these areas.
It is recommended students also sign up for the Electrical Engineering Technology Certificate Specialization in Automation Control (C40180-C6), a certificate which requires no extra courses to receive.
Completion of the program requires that students use college-level algebra, trigonometry and physics in the application of scientific principles to technical problems.
Contact Information
The Mechatronics Engineering Technology Program is in the Engineering Technologies Division. For additional information, visit the Mechatronics Engineering Technology website or call the Program Chair at 704.330.6545.
| General Education Requirements | ||
| ENG 111 | Writing and Inquiry | 3.0 |
| COM 110 | Introduction to Communication | 3.0 |
| ECO 251 | Principles of Microeconomics | 3.0 |
| Take 1 of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Algebra/Trigonometry I | ||
or MAT 171 | Precalculus Algebra | |
| Take 1 of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Art Appreciation | ||
or ART 114 | Art History Survey I | |
or ART 115 | Art History Survey II | |
or DRA 111 | Theatre Appreciation | |
or HUM 120 | Cultural Studies | |
or HUM 130 | Myth in Human Culture | |
or MUS 110 | Music Appreciation | |
or MUS 112 | Introduction to Jazz | |
or PHI 215 | Philosophical Issues | |
or PHI 240 | Introduction to Ethics | |
or REL 110 | World Religions | |
| Major Requirements | ||
| ACA 122 | College Transfer Success | 1.0 |
| PHY 131 | Physics-Mechanics | 4.0 |
| or PHY 151 | College Physics I | |
| ISC 112 | Industrial Safety | 2.0 |
| EGR 125 | Appl Software for Tech | 2.0 |
| MEC 130 | Mechanisms | 3.0 |
| MEC 265 | Fluid Mechanics | 3.0 |
| ELC 131 | Circuit Analysis I | 4.0 |
| ELC 135 | Electrical Machines | 3.0 |
| ELC 136 | Electrical Machines II | 4.0 |
| ATR 112 | Introduction to Automation | 3.0 |
| ELC 213 | Instrumentation | 4.0 |
| ELN 260 | Prog Logic Controllers | 4.0 |
| PCI 173 | Programmable Systems | 4.0 |
| or PCI 170 | DAQ and Control | |
| DFT 154 | Intro to Solid Modeling | 3.0 |
| ISC 212 | Metrology | 2.0 |
| MEC 180 | Engineering Materials | 3.0 |
| MEC 210 | Applied Mechanics | 3.0 |
| Take 2 credits from the following: | 2.0 | |
| Work-Based Learning I and Work-Based Learning II | ||
| Work-Based Learning I | ||
| Manufacturing Processes I | ||
| Total Credits | 69 | |
Mechatronics Engineering Technology Certificates (C40350)
Mechatronics Engineering Technology Certificate Specialization in Mechatronics Engineering Pathway (C40350-C5)
This certificate is available to high school students enrolled in Career and College Promise.
| Major Requirements | ||
| MAT 121 | Algebra/Trigonometry I | 3.0 |
| EGR 125 | Appl Software for Tech | 2.0 |
| ISC 112 | Industrial Safety | 2.0 |
| ELC 131 | Circuit Analysis I | 4.0 |
| DFT 154 | Intro to Solid Modeling | 3.0 |
| Total Credits | 14 | |
The following is the suggested plan for when to take each course to complete the Associate in Applied Science degree, based on the program requirements of the 2022-2023 catalog. This is only a recommendation — you may take courses in another order upon consultation with your advisor. This plan is based on you starting with college-level math and English courses, starting your program in the fall, and attending full-time. You can also follow this sequence if you attend part-time. Speak with an advisor about the plan and any questions. This program might also offer diplomas or certificates; visit the catalog or contact the program for details.
Mechatronics Engineering Technology suggested course sequence
Courses
MEC 110. Introduction to CAD/CAM. 2.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces CAD/CAM. Emphasis is placed on transferring part geometry from CAD to CAM for the development of a CNC-ready program. Upon completion, students should be able to use CAD/CAM software to produce a CNC program.
MEC 111. Machine Processes I. 3.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-4.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces shop safety, hand tools, machine processes, measuring instruments, and the operation of machine shop equipment. Topics include use and care of tools, safety, measuring tools, and the basic setup and operation of common machine tools. Upon completion, students should be able to manufacture simple parts to specified tolerance.
MEC 130. Mechanisms. 3.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces the purpose and action of various mechanical devices. Topics include cams, cables, gear trains, differentials, screws, belts, pulleys, shafts, levers, lubricants, and other devices. Upon completion, students should be able to analyze, maintain, and troubleshoot the components of mechanical systems.
MEC 155. Environmentally Benign Manufacturing. 3.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces environmental issues involving the generation and management of hazardous materials and wastes in manufacturing operations. Topics include the analysis of manufacturing trends, pollution minimization strategies, and the advantages of incorporating a sustainable approach to manufacturing. Upon completion, students should be able to discuss analysis and modification of industrial processes in manufacturing facilities toward a sustainable end.
MEC 161. Manufacturing Processes I. 3.0 Credits. Class-3.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course provides the fundamental principles of value-added processing of materials into usable forms for the customer. Topics include material properties and traditional and non-traditional manufacturing processes. Upon completion, students should be able to specify appropriate manufacturing processing for common engineering materials.
MEC 172. Introduction to Metallurgy. 3.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course covers the production, properties, testing, classification, microstructure, and heat-treating effects of ferrous and non-ferrous metals. Topics include the iron-carbon phase diagram, ITT diagram, ANSI code, quenching, senescing, and other processes concerning metallurgical transformations. Upon completion, students should be able to understand the iron-carbon phase diagram, ITT diagram, microstructure images, and other phenomena concerning the behavior of metals.
MEC 180. Engineering Materials. 3.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces the physical and mechanical properties of materials. Topics include materials testing, pre- and post-manufacturing processes, and material selection of ferrous and non-ferrous metals, plastics, composites, and non-conventional materials. Upon completion, students should be able to utilize basic material property tests and select appropriate materials for applications. This course covers the physical and mechanical properties of materials. Topics include testing, heat treating, ferrous and non-ferrous metals, plastics, composites, and material selection. Upon completion, students should be able to specify basic tests and properties and select appropriate materials on the basis of specific properties.
MEC 210. Applied Mechanics. 3.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course is a study of forces, stresses, and strains acting upon mechanical components. Topics include static equilibrium; normal, shear, and bending stresses; mathematical and graphical solution techniques; and the relationship between stress and strain. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate proficiency in analyzing the forces, stresses, and strains common to applications in the workplace.
MEC 260. Fundamentals of Machine Design. 3.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces the fundamental principles of machine design. Topics include simple analysis of forces, moments, stresses, strains, friction, kinematics, and other considerations for designing machine elements. Upon completion, students should be able to analyze machine components and make component selections from manufacturers' catalogs.
MEC 265. Fluid Mechanics. 3.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course covers the physical behavior of fluids and fluid systems. Topics include fluid statics and dynamics, laminar and turbulent flow, Bernoulli's Equation, components, applications, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to apply fluid power principles to practical applications.
MEC 267. Thermal Systems. 3.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces the fundamental laws of thermodynamics. Topics include work and energy, open and closed systems, and heat engines. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate a knowledge of the laws and principles that apply to thermal power.
MEC 270. Machine Design. 4.0 Credits. Class-3.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course covers the basic principles underlying design and selection of machine elements. Topics include stress analysis, selection of components, power transmission, and other design considerations. Upon completion, students should be able to identify and solve mechanical design problems by applying basic engineering principles.
MEC 275. Engineering Mechanisms. 3.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course covers plane motion and devices used to generate plane motion. Topics include analysis of displacement, velocity, acceleration, gears, cams, and other mechanical systems. Upon completion, students should be able to graphically and mathematically analyze a plane motion system.