Understanding the Course:

Mechatronic Engineering

More and more aspects of the world around us are becoming automated, with labour-saving machines and robots able to perform tasks quicker and more accurately than any human. These machines are staggeringly complex, with huge numbers of finely-tuned moving parts being precisely controlled in the blink of an eye by state of the art electronics. Consider what you use on a daily basis and how many moving parts are involved. Such machines are examples of mechatronic engineering, the science of combining mechanical engineering with electronic engineering to create intelligent machines. The potential in this area is immense no matter what your interest, from designing safer automobiles, to building labour-saving intelligent robots, to interfacing the mechanical and electronic parts of future renewable energy systems.

The DCU School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering and the School of Electronic Engineering are the first in Ireland to offer such a degree course in Mechatronic Engineering. On this four year course you will focus primarily on aspects of developing novel products based on mechatronic principles. You will learn about electronic and mechanical systems, process control and instrumentation, and robotics and automated manufacturing.

About You:

A mechatronic engineer is a problem-solver by nature. Mathematics is the universal language of engineering problems and you will need to be comfortable with logical and methodical approaches to understanding real world phenomena. Leaving Cert Honours Maths and Leaving Cert Applied Maths, when well understood, are excellent indicators of ability in the field of mechatronic engineering. Your thirst for knowledge and drive to contribute to society will lead to constant learning and innovation throughout your career. A head for science and mathematics will help you make the most of this degree.

In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the University the following entry requirements apply: HC3 in Mathematics or HC3 in Applied Mathematics with HD2 in Mathematics.

Course Structure:

The course focuses on nine core areas over four years. These are as follows:

1. Basic Science and Mathematics

As the roots of Mechatronic Engineering are in the sciences (particularly physics) and mathematics you will take courses in physics fundamentals and engineering mathematics in the first two years.

2. Electronic Circuit and System Design

Electronic components and systems are explored through electronics modules in Years 1 and 2 and modules on analogue and digital circuits and systems in Years 2, 3 and 4.

3. Mechanical Systems Design and Analysis

Applied mechanics, fluid mechanics, strength of materials and the mechanics of machines provide a foundation for design and analysis of mechanical components and systems during the first three years.

4. Computing and Computer-aided Design

Computer design and analysis are an integral part of Mechatronic Engineering: modules introducing general techniques of software development are given in Years 1 and 2; Computer-Aided Design (CAD) is covered in Year 2; and the use of computers in manufacturing is explored in Years 3 and 4.

5. Mechatronics

The emphasis of the course from Year 1 to Year 4 is to unite the disciplines of Mechanical Engineering and Electronic Engineering. Modules such as the first year project, the third year group project and the mechatronics workshop are designed to develop your mechatronic skills and awareness.

6. Mobile Robotics

This module is unique among engineering courses in Ireland. It is entirely project-based and embodies the key principles of Mechatronic Engineering. It is organised around a specific robotic design challenge and is intended to give you an opportunity to integrate and expand your knowledge in several different core areas: digital and analogue electronics, mechanics, software development and control systems. This is achieved by designing, building, debugging and demonstrating (in a competitive environment) a complete functional mobile robot.

7. Electromechanical System Design

One core area of Mechatronic Engineering is the design of electromechanical systems - systems that consist of electrical and mechanical elements. A substantial part of the final two years of the course is devoted to the design, simulation, analysis and control of such systems.

8. Automated Manufacture

Another core area of Mechatronic Engineering is the use of electronics in manufacturing and assembly. In the final year a significant emphasis is placed on autonomous technology and manufacturing automation.

9. Project Work

You will complete various projects during your four years, culminating in a major individual project in Year 4. The project will normally include elements of research, design, component sourcing, construction, test and documentation. This assessment plays a large part in the overall grade of your degree. Projects may emerge from the same company in which a student had been placed for INTRA.

In Year 3 you will undertake an INTRA industrial work placement for six months. This is usually with a business in Ireland but opportunities do arise abroad, and there are some research positions within DCU.

Although currently there is no integrated 5-year accredited structure for Mechatronics, students wishing to pursue a Masters degree may take the DCU 1-year taught Masters programmes in Electronic Systems, Telecommunications Engineering or Computer Aided Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering.

To view the year 5 modules click here

View the subjects currently taught on this course (2012 - 2013)

Why DCU?

• Develop and work with exciting new technologies.
• Flexible career opportunities in a range of interesting and socially important areas e.g. the health sector, the smart economy, new energy and communications.
• Small class sizes, up-to-date industry relevant modules and lots of practical hands-on project work.

International Students

Non-native English speakers may be eligible to apply to the International Foundation Certificate (IFC) course, which will help you to achieve the English language requirements necessary for entry to this course as well as preparing you for adjustment to university learning in the Irish context. Please click here for full details of the IFC course.

Career Prospects:

A Future Career

Mechatronic Engineering skills are in demand by both national and international companies who require personnel with mechatronics expertise to help ensure that the products they manufacture are up-to-date and can be produced economically. Companies associated with this course include ABB, Agilent Technologies, Applied Materials, Braun, Hewlett-Packard, Intel, Proscon, Schering Plough, Tecpro Ltd. and Xsil Ltd. Typical industry sectors requiring both mechanical and electronic design and analysis are:

• Domestic consumer goods (e.g. video recorders, cameras, washing machines)
• Medical machinery (e.g. body scanners, life support systems)
• Transport-related industries (e.g. cars, rail, aircraft)
• Hydraulic, pneumatic and electrical controls and drives
• Automated production systems
• Robotics
• Food processing, and
• Petrochemicals

The skills you learn are fundamental and can also be applied to many other areas. What's more, your INTRA work placement will greatly improve your employment potential. Alternatively you could opt for further academic studies in one of our highly popular taught postgraduate programmes, or perhaps even a career in research with one of our internationally respected research groups.

Entry Requirements:

Leaving Certificate
In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the university the following entry requirements apply:

HC3 in Mathematics or HC3 in Applied Mathematics with HD2 in Mathematics

GCE A Level
In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the university the following entry requirements apply:

GCE A-Level C in Mathematics.

FETAC Level 5
No Entry Paths

Transfer Applications
The Faculty of Engineering and Computing consider transfer requests based on the performance of the candidate up to the time of the request.
The overall set of guidelines which is in use for HETAC/NCEA equivalent qualifications is:

Relevant HETAC/NCEA Higher Certificate/National Certificate (Distinction) - possible entry to Year 1.
Relevant HETAC/NCEA Higher Certificate/National Certificate (Merit plus experience) - possible entry to Year 1.
Relevant HETAC/NCEA Bachelor (Ordinary) Degree/National Diploma (Merit or better) - possible entry to Year 2.
Relevant HETAC/NCEA Bachelor (Ordinary) Degree/National Diploma (Distinction plus a possible interview) - possible entry to Year 3.


International Applications
International candidates are expected to have educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to those outlined above. In addition, where such candidates are non-native speakers of the English language they must satisfy the university of their competency in the English language. For further information on international applications click here.

Recognition of Prior Learning:
The RPL policy document for the ME programme can be found here.

How to Apply and Closing Dates

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Fee information