Mechatronic Engineering
This programme is managed between both the School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering and the School of Electronic Engineering.
View our video on our BEng and MEng in Mechatronic Engineering degree here:
More and more aspects of the world around us are becoming automated, with labour-saving machines, ‘always on’ connected devices and robots able to perform tasks quicker and more accurately than humans. 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. Just consider the machines 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, electronic and computer engineering and software design to create intelligent machines. Mechatronic engineering skills are key in the ever growing presence of a connected world (Internet of Things (IoT))enabling machines to interact with the (electro-mechanical) physical and (software) virtual worlds via the internet. The potential in this area is immense no matter what your interest, from designing safer cars to building labour-saving intelligent robots to interfacing the mechanical and electronic parts of future renewable energy systems.
After completing four years of the course, you’ll achieve a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Mechatronic Engineering. There is an option to complete an additional 5th year to achieve an integrated Masters degree (decision to choose the 5th year option is made heading into 3rd year and subject to achieving a H2.2 or higher in Years 1 and 2).
"The Mechatronic programme in DCU is a perfect balance between mechanical and electronic engineering. It helps students to develope important skills required in the modern industry such as report writing, problem solving and teamwork. Also, the programme involves many computer based modules which are aimed to train students to use common software like SolidWorks, Matlab and C language. Practical classes and laboratories which are scheduled every week allow student to consolidate knowledge obtained during lectures. I was absolutely happy with the programme and staff attitude during all my four years in DCU"
This four-year BEng (Honours) Degree with the option to do a 5th year integrated Masters degree (decision to choose the 5th year option is made after 2nd year and subject to achieving a H2.2 or higher in Years 1 and 2) has 8 academic themes addressing a particular aspect of Mechatronic engineering. The degree begins with fundamental scientific principles and leads through to a set of modules dealing with design, analysis, manufacture and modelling of electromechanical products and systems.
The undergraduate programme focuses on eight core areas:
- Basic Science and Mathematics — As the roots of mechatronic engineering are in the sciences and mathematics, you’ll undergo courses in the basic sciences and engineering mathematics.
- Electronic Circuit and Systems Design—Electronic components and systems are explored through electronics modules as well as modules on analogue and digital circuits and systems.
- Mechanical Systems Design and Analysis — Materials Engineering, Fundamentals of Mechanics, Strength of Materials and the Mechanics of Machines provide a foundation for design and analysis of mechanical components and systems.
- Software — Software design and analysis are integral parts of mechatronic engineering. Modules introducing general techniques of software development are given in Years One and Two, with a focus on Embedded Systems in Year Two. You’ll also be introduced to specific software tools through modules and project work.
- Mechatronic/Electromechanical System Design — A key emphasis of this programme 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 Year Four project are designed to develop mechatronic skills and awareness. In addition, another core area of mechatronic engineering is the design of electromechanical systems — systems that consist of both electrical and mechanical elements. A substantial part of the final year of the course is devoted to the design, simulation, analysis and control of such systems. The Mobile Robotics module 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.
- Automated Manufacture — Another core area of Mechatronic Engineering is the use of electronics, embedded systems and software in the automation of manufacturing and assembly. In the fourth year, a significant emphasis is placed on autonomous technology and manufacturing automation.
- Project Based Learning — You’ll complete various projects during your four years, culminating in a major individual project in Year Four. Students’ projects normally include elements of research, design, component sourcing, construction, testing and documentation. All projects must be based on at least two of the three core mechatronic elements (namely, mechanical, electronic and software design components).
- Experiential Learning — In Year Three you’ll undertake an industrial work placement for six months (referred to as INTRA). This is usually with a business in Ireland but opportunities may arise abroad and there are also some research positions within DCU.
The listing of the modules for the BEng programme in years 1 to 4 is available using the following link:
Modules Year 1 - 4 BEng Mechatronic Engineering
Students who choose to do a Masters in Mechatronic Engineering share the first three years with the BEng programme. Subsequently, the 4th and 5th years comprise of the following modules:
Year 4 (MEng) |
Credits |
Year 5 (MEng) |
Credits |
| Project Planning and Research | 7.5 | Image Processing and Analysis | 5 |
| MEng Project Design (5) | 5 | Computer Vision | 7.5 |
| Entrpreneurship for Engineers | 7.5 | Manufacturing Automation | 7.5 |
| Intra II | 22.5 | Robotics (7.5) | 7.5 |
| Digital Filters & DFT | 5 | Control Systems Analysis | 7.5 |
| Mechanical Engineering System Simulation | 5 | Mechatronic System Simulation & Control | 7.5 |
| Design For Manufacture and Assembly | 7.5 | Data Analysis & Machine Learning | 7.5 |
| Uaneen Non-Contributing Module | 5 | Power Electronics | 5 |
| Uaneen Non-Contributing Module | 5 |
We have a unique and vibrant culture on our modern campus close to Dublin city centre. We provide state-of-the-art study facilities for all our courses and everything else you need for a healthy, fun and active student life.
Exceptional Facilities
DCU students enjoy exceptional teaching and learning facilities across our 3 academic campuses. These include modern learning theatres, research centres, television and sound studios, classrooms, computer suites and advanced laboratories in the areas of languages, engineering, physics, chemistry and biotechnology, as well as a sports performance centre and a virtual hospital ward.
A Vibrant, Dynamic Social Environment
Student facilities include a superb sports complex with a 25 metre pool, two libraries and The Helix, our renowned performing arts centre. In 2016 we announced plans to invest over €230m in developing new, world-class facilities across our three academic campuses. Already building has begun on an exciting, new €14m Student Centre that will be home to the more than one hundred and twenty student clubs and societies. This commitment to student facilities means that our world-class learning experiences are complemented by a vibrant, dynamic social environment.
"The Mechatronic programme in DCU is a perfect balance between mechanical and electronic engineering. It helps students to develope important skills required in the modern industry such as report writing, problem solving and teamwork. Also, the programme involves many computer based modules which are aimed to train students to use common software like SolidWorks, Matlab and C language. Practical classes and laboratories which are scheduled every week allow student to consolidate knowledge obtained during lectures. I was absolutely happy with the programme and staff attitude during all my four years in DCU"
Mechatronic engineering skills are in demand by both national and international companies looking to ensure that products they manufacture are up-to-date and can be produced economically.
The skills learned in your course can be applied to many areas, including:
- Medical equipment
- Transport-related industries (e.g. cars, rail, aircraft)
- Hydraulic, pneumatic and electrical controls and drives
- Automated production systems
- Consumer products
- Robotics
- Food processing
- Petrochemicals
- Internet of Things (Connected devices)
- Research and Development Engineer
- Design Engineer
- Production Engineer
- Sales Engineer
- Management Engineer
- System design, concentrating on mechanical systems, electronic hardware, software design or combinations thereof.
Alternatively, you could opt for further academic studies in one of our popular taught postgraduate programmes, or perhaps a career in research within one of our internationally respected research groups in DCU.
Requirements
In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the university the following entry requirements apply
Minimum of H4 Mathematics or H4 Applied Mathematics with H5 Mathematics
In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the university the following entry requirements apply
GCE A Level C Mathematics
No Entry Path
The engineering schools consider transfer requests based on the performance of the candidate. The overall
set of guidelines which is in use for HETAC/NCEA equivalent qualifications is as follows:
Qualification Possible Point of Entry
Relevant HETAC/NCEA Higher Certificate/National CertificateFirst year
(Distinction)
Relevant HETAC/NCEA Higher Certificate/National CertificateFirst year
(Merit plus Experience)
Relevant HETAC/NCEA Bachelor (Ordinary) Degree/National
Diploma (Merit or Better)Second year
Relevant HETAC/NCEA Bachelor (Ordinary) Degree/National
Diploma (Distinction plus a possible interview)Third year
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.
