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Program Outline
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.
Program Structure
This program combines courses of mechanical engineering and electrical and electronic engineering together with courses in mechatronics and robotics. It includes the study of design, microprocessors, electronics, sensors, actuators, signal processing and control. There is a strong focus on design and project work throughout the program. First and second year of the program are almost identical to Mechanical Engineering with students in the second year Mechatronics program studying electronics in place of manufacturing processes and materials. In year three, students do an equal mix of mechanical and electronic/electrical engineering courses with additional studies in computer systems and programming. In year four, students are able to choose three elective courses but the majority of the courses are core mechanical, electrical, electronic and computing. Students are required to complete 12 weeks of approved work experience.
Admission Information
Choose your applicant type to view the relevant admissions
information for this program.
I am a:
Domestic applicants
Not a domestic applicant?

Selection Criteria
Year 12 applicants
You must not have completed more than 4 years full time equivalent university study (96 units). You compete for a place with your Tertiary Entrance Rank (TER).
Prerequisites

SACE Stage 2: Mathematical Studies, Specialist Mathematics, Physics
IB: Mathematics (HL grade 4), Physics (SL grade 5/HL grade 4)
Assumed Knowledge

SACE Stage 2 Chemistry
Alternative entry pathways
- Higher Education applicants
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.
- VET applicants
You must have completed an AQF Diploma or above. Your application will be ranked according to the level of the award.
- Special Entry applicants
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.
- Without formal qualifications?
How to Apply
International applicants
Not an international applicant?

Selection Criteria
Prerequisites

Mathematics and Physics
Assumed Knowledge

Chemistry is desirable
Equivalent Scores
| International
TER |
80 |
Total
Reading
Listening
Speaking
Writing
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6
5.5
5.5
6
6
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How to Apply
Study Plans
The study plans
given are examples of pathways through this degree. For a complete description,
see the program rules.
| Level I |
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Semester 1
Semester 2
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| Level II |
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Semester 1
Semester 2
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| Level III |
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Semester 1
Semester 2
- MECH ENG 3028 Dynamics & Control II (3 units)
- MECH ENG 3027 Engineering Systems Design & Communication (3 units)
- ELEC ENG 3025 Power Electronics & Drive Systems M (3 units)
- MECH ENG 3032 Micro-Controller Programming (3 units)
- MECH ENG 3502 Mech Eng Level 3 Prac
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| Level IV |
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Semester 1
Semester 2
- MECH ENG 4135B Mechatronics Honours Project Level IV OR
MECH ENG 4134B Mechatronic Design Project Level IV Part 2 (3 units)
- MECH ENG 4116 Engineering Management & Quality Systems (3 units)
- MECH ENG 4123 Advanced Digital Control (3 units)
- MECH ENG 4502 Mech Eng Level 4 Prac
Elective courses to the value of at least 3 units
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| Electives |
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Semester 1
- MECH ENG 4115 Engineering Acoustics (3 units)
- MECH ENG 4126 Topics in Welded Strctures (3 units)
Semester 2
- MECH ENG 4121 Materials Selection & Failure Analysis - Not offered in 2009 (3 units)
- MECH ENG 4113 Computational Acoustics (3 units)
- MECH ENG 4117 Finance for Engineers (3 units)
- MECH ENG 4119 Fire Engineering (3 units)
- MECH ENG 4101 Biomechanical Engineering (3 units)
- 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)
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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: Tuesday, 9 Jun 2009
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