Mechatronics Engineering and Society – Faculty of Engineering

Mechatronics Engineering and Society

Integrate the disciplines of mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering to develop smart, automated systems, with a consideration for how these technologies interact with society and influence human life.

Length
5 years
Degree
Bachelor of Engineering & Society (Co-op Available)
Program
Engineering
Options

Co-op

Program highlights

At McMaster University, we have designed an innovative world class Mechatronics program that offers a balance of Mechanical, Electrical and Software content with a focus on Embedded Systems Design. Our Mechatronics program gives students a solid foundation in Mechanical, Software and Electrical Engineering and then exposes students to a suite of innovative Mechatronics specific lab-based courses for a hands-on experience that provides significant advantages in today’s job market.

Lab-based courses

Our Mechatronics program gives students a solid foundation and exposes them to a suite of innovative Mechatronics specific lab-based courses.

Hands-on experience

The hands-on experience provides students with significant advantages in today’s job market.

Engineering and Society advantage

Core courses include:

  • The Culture of Technology
  • Case Studies in the History of Technology
  • Preventive Engineering: Environmental Perspectives
  • Social Control of Technology

In addition, three courses called Inquiry in an Engineering Context, develop skill at formulating questions, carrying out research and communicating findings. These courses help to examine the complex nature of issues like sustainable development and systems failure.

Learn more about Engineering and Society

Admission requirements

Academic Prerequisites

This is an above level 1 specialization that requires successful completion of the Engineering 1 general first year.

Use the Future Students admissions tool for entry requirements.

How to Apply Mechatronics Engineering and Society degree requirements (Opens in new window)
Students working on machine

Why study Mechatronics?

Today’s designers are faced with the task of combining elements of mechanics, electronics, embedded systems and digital signal processing, while coping with the miniaturization of components and use of prefabricated parts.

The synthesis of different technologies is already included in modern precision engineering. Continuing developments in miniaturization and fabrication will provide further challenges for Mechatronics Engineers.

The demands of current and future technologies requires engineers that have interdisciplinary skills. The breadth of education required by Mechatronics engineers will not only provide such skills in the short term, but will enable them in the long term to effectively adapt to rapidly shifting technologies.

Students examining solar cell material

Your first year

All students in McMaster’s undergraduate engineering program share a common first-year, Engineering 1.

Engineering 1 provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of engineering disciplines. Students take real problems in society and learn the technical and teamwork skills to solve them.

Explore all of our degree path options before choosing a focus discipline for second year and beyond.
Engineering 1
Student working on machine. Hands-on experience.

Co-op and experiential learning

Experiential learning provides students with hands-on opportunities beyond the traditional lecture-style format to gain valuable experience.

The Engineering Co-op Program is an optional program which provides you with the opportunity to work in real engineering positions before you graduate. The Centre for Career Growth and Experience (the Centre) administers the undergraduate co-op program.

Example employers:

  • Advanced MicroDevices (AMD)
  • Microsoft
  • Bell Canada
  • Evertz Microsystems
  • IBM Canada
  • Ford Motor Company of Canada
  • Toronto Hydro Corporation
  • ArcelorMittal
  • CIBC Canadian Imperial Bank of Canada

Learn more about co-op.

McMaster Engineering has many engineering clubs, teams and societies you can join to enhance your practical knowledge and soft skills, provide support, or give you the chance to explore new activities. Clubs are an enjoyable way to enrich your student life and contribute to your social development and academic success.

  • PhaseOne (formerly HackItMAC)
  • McMaster SumoBot Club
  • MacACM
  • McMaster Solar Car Project
  • Arduino Club

Learn more about clubs, groups and teams.

Engineering programs have been enriched with interdisciplinary design courses, enabling students to work in teams on real-world problems. This practical experience builds their portfolios and hones skills vital for managing complex projects and utilizing emerging technologies. It prepares them for co-ops and future careers, fostering critical thinking, collaboration, and an understanding of societal issues.

Four project-based design courses that all students take include:

  • ENGINEER 1P13: Integrated Cornerstone Design Projects in Engineering
  • ENGINEER 2PX3: Engineering Design 2: Communications and Societal Impact
  • ENGINEER 3PX3: Engineering Design 2: Engineering Economics
  • CAPSTONE

Find out more

Explore the experiences catalogue

Careersand research

Example career paths:

  • Robotics and automation
  • Electro-mechanical design and devices
  • Embedded control systems
  • Flexible manufacturing
  • Artificial intelligence
  • Renewable energy
  • Medical devices
  • Entrepreneur

Research areas:

  • Robotics
  • Intelligent control systems
  • Sensor technology
  • Autonomous systems
  • Human-machine interaction
  • AI and machine learning
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Cyber-physical systems
  • Wearable technology
  • Energy hearvesting
  • Micro/nano systems

Need moreinformation?

How to apply

Understand every step, from applying, to accepting your offer and joining us on campus!

How to apply

Department of Computing and Software

We’re developing the engines of economic growth in a digital society.

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