Mechatronics (MEB)

Mechatronics is the name given to the synergy created by the disciplines of electrical engineering, computer science, mechanical engineering and information technology. The term itself is a hybrid word taken from mechanics, electronics and computer science.

In industry mechatronics is utilised in planning and manufacturing products and in process design. It involves expanding mechanical systems with sensors and microcomputers to build partly intelligent products.

The key task for mechatronic engineers is integrating individual components into an overall system. 

Mechatronic engineers are equipped with an understanding of systems, a comprehensive view of the subject and interdisciplinary knowledge. Normally they work with specialists from the various sub-areas.

In the workplace mechatronic engineers are often responsible for project management tasks; they can also be found in technical consulting and technical management positions. Graduates find employment in the following sectors:

• Vehicle technology
• Medical engineering
• Robotics
• Aviation and aerospace engineering
• Micro-system and precision engineering

The Mechatronics degree programme at Hochschule Mannheim is a cooperative programme offered by the Departments of Electrical Engineering (E), Information Technology (N), Computer Science (I) and Mechanical Engineering (M). This ensures that specialists for each subject are involved in teaching. 

During the first three semesters, lectures are tailored to meet the interdisciplinary requirements of a mechatronic engineer.

In the fourth semester, students can select an area of indepth study:

·         Automation Technology – Department of Electrical Engineering (E)

·         Electronics – Department of Information Technology (N)

·         Computer Science – Department of Computer Science (I)

·         Mechanical Engineering – Department of Mechanical Engineering (M)

Specialised subjects are taken in combination with subjects from other specialist areas, to ensure that students gain interdisciplinary knowledge.

All the individual subjects can be found at: Standard study plan.

Lectures in the first half of the degree programme lay the foundations for working in an interdisciplinary style later on. The difference between lectures for students of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, information technology and computer science is the interdisciplinary requirements. 

An area of advanced study can be elected in the fourth semester. From here onwards, the focus is on subject-specific applications. In addition, lectures from other advanced subjects are taken, to ensure the interdisciplinary nature of the course.
The fifth semester is a practical study semester and is held in the department of the chosen advanced study area.

A university of applied sciences course is very different to a university one. It features:

·         relevant practical knowledge and skills,

·         small class sizes, and

·         applied research.

Small semester intakes help foster personal contact between fellow students, professors and university staff. Students often thus form study groups that ease the task of studying. They can also contact professors directly with questions at any time.