Robotics / Mechatronics
Build intelligent machines that sense, think, and act
What You'll Study
Robotics & Mechatronics implies a mix of Mechanical, Electrical, and Computer Engineering. You learn to build smart machines—from factory arms to self-driving cars—that integrate sensors, motors, and code.
- Control Systems
- Kinematics & Dynamics
- Embedded Systems (Microcontrollers)
- Sensors & Actuators
- Machine Vision
- Artificial Intelligence / Path Planning
- Mechanical Design (CAD)
- Circuit Design
Example Classes
How to Know If You'll Like It
You'll probably enjoy this if...
- ✓You are the ultimate tinkerer
- ✓You can't decide between Mechanical, Electrical, or CS (this is all 3)
- ✓You want to build physical intelligent agents
- ✓You enjoy complex, multi-disciplinary problems
- ✓You like automation and future tech
- ✓You are patient (robots fail often)
You might not enjoy this if...
- ✕You want to focus on just one thing (deep specialist)
- ✕You dislike coding
- ✕You dislike hardware mechanics
- ✕You get frustrated easily by bugs in hardware AND software
Self-Check Quiz
Answer these questions honestly to see if this major might be a good fit for you.
Do you think BattleBots is the coolest thing ever?
Career Outcomes
Featured In-Demand Careers
Mechanical Engineer
Design, analyze, and manufacture mechanical systems from consumer products to industrial machinery.
Electrical Engineer
Design and develop electrical systems, from power generation to electronic devices and control systems.
Software Engineer
Design, develop, and maintain software applications and systems. Work with cutting-edge technologies to solve complex problems.
Other Common Career Paths
- •Automation Engineer
- •Control Systems Engineer
- •Embedded Software Engineer
- •Drone Engineer
Industries
Try It First
Test if you like this field before committing to a major:
Build a LEGO Mindstorms robot if available, or a virtual robot in a simulator.
Get an Arduino starter kit and make a servo motor move based on light levels.
Build a robotic arm using cardboard and servos (lots of YouTube tutorials).
Related Majors
Mechanical Engineering
Design anything with moving parts, from engines to robots
Computer Engineering
Design the hardware and systems that power modern technology
Electrical & Electronics Engineering
Power the world, from microchips to national power grids
Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning
Create intelligent systems that learn and adapt
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends. ME/EE are broader/safer. Robotics is specialized but in high demand now.
Yes, lots of C++ and Python for robot control.
Yes, you have to verify three engineering fields. It is intense.
Manufacturing (Car Assembly), Automotive (Self-Driving), Defense, Logistics (Amazon Robots).
Yes, but a degree gives you the math/theory for advanced robotics.
Ready to Explore This Major?
Get personalized guidance on whether Robotics / Mechatronics is right for you and how to build a competitive profile.