Mechatronics

Mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and information technology all in one course. Mechatronics combines the classic engineering disciplines into one sustainable specialised field where interdisciplinary and systems-based approaches play a key role.

Mechatronics is a new field involving an exceptionally high degree of innovation and great growth potential. Mechatronic systems are distinguished by basic mechanical structures, highly dynamic drive systems, smart sensors and central or decentralised microcomputer systems which control interactions between components. Developing and using these systems generates a wide range of challenging tasks for creative mechatronics engineers.

Our daily world is full of mechatronic solutions. This also explains companies’ need for young people who choose this varied course of study. With its globally leading vehicle manufacturers and many suppliers, the automotive industry is just as geared around mechatronics as the diverse mechanical engineering division at most SMEs. This ranges from passenger cars with state-of-the-art assistance systems, to e-mobility, to highly dynamic robots, precision tools, and high-performance wind power plants.

The learning environment is intimate, working in small groups, where students are supported by lecturers and research assistants. Well equipped laboratories are used for experimental learning, while participation in development projects for regional companies encourages practical application of course content, and creates new contacts for entry into the professional world. 

Course content and structure

Academic degree: Bachelor of Engineering (B. Eng.)
Standard course duration: 6 semesters (3 years)
Course commencement: Winter semester (September)

The course is run full-time over six semesters or as part of the co-operative education scheme (see www.mein-duales-studium.de) over eight semesters.

The first two semesters initially focus on the technical foundations with the Mathematics for engineers, Technical mechanics, Electrical engineering, Materials science and Manufacturing technology modules.

Building on from this in the third semester, mechatronic topics are addressed in more detail in the fields of Construction technology, Technical IT, Microcontroller engineering, Thermodynamics and Optics. The content in semesters four and five focus on system theories and systems engineering, such as the Finite element method, Control technology, Mechatronic systems and Electrical drive systems. The technical content is enriched by courses in Business administration and Technical English.

Elective modules enable specialist knowledge to be expanded, and mechatronics to be enhanced with interesting, popular fields. Students can choose the modules from this course, as well as the faculty’s other two courses – biomimetics and business engineering.

During the internship phase at the start of sixth semester, students apply the course content in-house at companies, where they work as “engineers”. The subsequent dissertation concludes the mechatronics course.

Career prospects

Engineers change the world. They work on the smart solutions of the future. And are more in demand than ever before, in a world which is changing faster and faster. If we want to preserve our planet, we need to rethink things in almost all areas of life, and develop sustainable technical solutions. This is where we need mechatronic engineers – now more than ever.

Mechatronic engineers can work in a wide range of fields. There is hardly any product on the market today in which mechatronics has not played a part. From household devices, to vehicles and aircraft, to complex systems, the knowledge of mechatronics engineers is indispensable. The necessary frugal handling of resources, energy and raw materials increasingly requires engineering expertise. All experience and forecasts have shown a significant demand for specialists in this field – both now and in the near future.

Mechatronics graduates are well suited to tasks in research and development, construction, project planning and production, testing, start-up, maintenance and operation of technical systems. They develop sustainable solutions, are team-oriented, creative, business-minded, and have a broad technical base.

These are qualifications which are and will continue to be highly sought after.

Postgraduate option: Masters course

Following on from the successful Bachelors course, the Bocholt campus offers a Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering, with majors in “Robotics” and “Lightweight construction”.

This course is an extension course, i.e. building on from the Bachelors course, meaning it cannot be taken without prior preparation. A Masters degree can of course also be undertaken at other tertiary institutions.

Having successfully completed the Masters course, students then have the option of doing a PhD (obtaining the title of doctor) at a university.

Additional qualification: Teaching training

You may also be eligible to take the Masters course in “Technical college teacher training” at the University of Wuppertal.

For more information, visit www.w-hs.de/lehramt-bk.

Further informations for exchange students

Redaktionell verantwortliche Person nach § 55, Abs. 2 RStV:
Dekan des Fachbereichs, Prof. Dr.-Ing Thomas Naber