Mechatronic engineering combines mechanics with electronics and computing; that is, it integrates machinery with electronics and computer control. Mechatronic engineers are comfortable and competent with cutting edge technology in both mechanical and electrical and electronic engineering. They may design, construct and maintain intelligent machines, micro-machines, smart structures, intelligent systems, control systems and consumer products such as cameras, washing machines or a fully automated robotic assembly line, or they may be involved with defence technology and systems.
This degree combines courses in mechanical engineering and electrical and electronic engineering together with courses in computing, mechatronics and robotics. Some of the areas of study include mechanics, electronics, design, signal analysis and processing, computer programming, sensor and actuator technology, automatic control, electrical system design, robotics and microprocessor technology. In the final year of the academic program students can choose elective courses from a number of different areas including vibrations, corrosion, biomechanics, air-conditioning, acoustics and advanced materials.
There is a strong focus on design and project work throughout the academic program with design projects as part of each year’s program of study. The academic program also develops written and oral communication skills and familiarity with project management.
Related Programs
Master of Engineering (Advanced) in Aerospace Engineering
Master of Engineering (Advanced) (Mechanical Engineering)
You must not have completed more than 4 years full time equivalent university study (96 units). You must have gained a 'Recorded Achievement' in four SACE Stage 2 HESS (Higher Education Selection Subjects) General subjects (or interstate/International Baccalaureate equivalents). For a full list of SACE subjects and their HESS status please refer to the SATAC Tertiary Entrance Booklet. You compete for a place with your Tertiary Entrance Rank (TER).
You must have completed at least half a year full time equivalent higher education study. A Grade Point Average (GPA) is calculated for each separate program you have undertaken (apart from some double degree programs where the GPA is combined). You compete on the basis of your best GPA.
You must meet the following criteria: you must be 21 years or over on January 1st of the year that you will be studying*, you must not hold a completed higher education level award, and if you have been enrolled in a course leading to a higher education level award in the last 3 years, you must not have completed more than 2 years full time equivalent university study. If you meet this criteria, you will be ranked according to your result in the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT). Your STAT result is weighted such that the verbal component contributes 35% and the quantitative component contributes 65% to your overall score. Personal Competencies (PC) and Employment Experience (EE) statements may also contribute to your rank. If you submit a PC or EE statement, and one of these ranks higher than your STAT score, then the highest ranking statement will contribute 50% to your overall rank and the STAT will contribute the remaining 50%. If you do not submit a PC or EE statement, or if the statements have a lower rank than the STAT, then you will compete for a place on the basis of your STAT result only. *The age restriction is 19 years or over if you have completed either the Flinders Foundation course or the UniSA Foundation Studies program or the UniSA Program for Adult Learners. Indigenous applicants may be eligible for entry through the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Access Scheme. See Wilto Yerlo for further information.
MECH ENG 4114 Corrosion: Principles & Prevention (3 units)
MECH ENG 4110 Automotive Vehicle Dynamics & Safety (3 units)
APP MTH 4043 Transform Methods & Signal Processing - Not offered by the School of Mechanical Engineering (2 units)
Career Opportunities
Mechatronic engineers offer expertise in the fields of combustion, noise and vibration control, energy technology, vibrations, control systems, robotics, quality management, bioengineering, aeronautics or fluid mechanics, water supply, mining, manufacturing, production planning, maintenance planning, consumer product design, pollution control and new materials.
Graduate Attributes
The objectives of the undergraduate programs in Aerospace, Automotive, Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering are to support the mission of the University of Adelaide to provide an inclusive curriculum that allows all students to learn and progress unhindered through the program, and to produce graduates who:
Have advanced and internationally recognised skills, understanding and knowledge (scientific knowledge, problem solving skills, IT skills, analytical skills, in-depth technical competence, communication skills and flexibility) necessary for a successful career in Aerospace, Mechanical or Mechatronic Engineering.
Have the ability to locate, analyse evaluate and synthesise information from a wide variety of sources in a planned and timely manner.
Can contribute as effective members of multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural teams with the capacity to be a leader or manager as well as an effective team member with skills of a high order in interpersonal understanding, teamwork and communication.
Have a commitment to continuous learning and the capacity to maintain intellectual curiosity throughout life and are able, by self directed study, to remain up to date with developments in their profession.
Have an ability to apply effective, creative and innovative solutions, both independently and cooperatively, to current and future problems and are able to guide developments in the profession.
Understand the context in which they work (economics, finance, teamwork, competition) while remaining committed to the highest standard of professional endeavour, not losing sight of the need for technical excellence and environmental responsibility.
Can communicate with government and the community on engineering issues.
Are educated in a broad sense, are socially, environmentally, ethically and professionally responsible, understand the need for and the principles of sustainable development, are well informed and have an ability to take a leadership role their place as leaders in the community.
Are familiar with current best practice in aerospace, mechanical or mechatronic engineering.
Are capable of synthesising fundamental engineering science and engineering practice in the creation of engineering systems and have the ability to utilise a systems approach to design and operational performance.
Included in the above attributes are those required by Engineers Australia who accredit our programs. These have been specified by Engineers Australia and require that graduates have:
Ability to apply knowledge of basic science and engineering fundamentals.
Ability to communicate effectively, not only with engineers but also with the community at large.
In-depth technical competence in at least one engineering discipline.
Ability to undertake problem identification, formulation and solution
Ability to utilise a systems approach to design and operational performance.
Ability to function effectively as an individual and in multidisciplinary and multicultural teams, with the capacity to be a leader or manager as well as an effective team member.
Understanding of the social, cultural, global, and environmental responsibilities of the professional engineer, and the need for sustainable development.
Understanding of the principles of sustainable development.
Understanding of professional and ethical responsibilities and commitment to them.
Expectations of the need to undertake lifelong learning, and the capacity to do so.
The University of Adelaide is committed to regular reviews of the courses and programs it offers to students. The University of Adelaide therefore reserves the right to discontinue or vary programs and courses without notice. Please read the important information contained in the disclaimer.
Last updated:
Monday, 22 Dec 2008
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