Mechatronics: Technology in Mechatronics Career Studies Certificate

Career Studies Certificate
221-736-01

Purpose:  This Career Studies Certificate is for students who are naturally problem solvers, machine fixers, or tinkerers but have never had any formal training in technology. Modern manufacturing and technology jobs in operations, design, test and analysis are now so sophisticated, that education is required at many levels to be successful in this marketplace. This certificate is a launching pad for meaningful technology employment. It includes six introductory classes such as basic technical math, materials and processes, fundamentals of electronics, basic computer-aided drafting and design, and industrial safety, as well as classes designed to promote success in technology and college.  Upon completion of this career studies certificate, students are employable as smart operators, entry level technicians, entry-level sales associates, apprentices, and interns.  All of these courses also count towards the AAS degree in Mechatronics for students who want to pursue further education leading to even more opportunities as a technician, various engineering applications, sales, marketing, or as an entrepreneur. Industry credentials that may be obtained include:  NC3 (National Coalition of Certification Centers) certificates in AC/DC Fundamentals and Multimeter Measurements as well as Autodesk Certification in AutoCAD.  This certificate may be a gateway for motivated students who want to transfer to Old Dominion University to complete a Bachelor of Engineering Technology degree. 

Program Objectives: Graduates who successfully complete the Technology in Mechatronics CSC may obtain entry level employment, an internship, or an apprenticeship in manufacturing operations, operations maintenance, technical support, engineering design, engineering test and analysis or technical sales. 

Admission Requirements: Applicants must meet the requirements for admission to credit-level coursework established by the college.

Placement Requirements: Students who do not demonstrate readiness for the college-level math will be required to select appropriate MDE coursework in consultation with an advisor.

Program Notes: Upon completion of the Advanced Technology in Mechatronics Career Studies Certificate, students will be prepared to take the Manufacturing Technician Level 1 Certification. Graduates may continue their studies in the AAS Mechatronics Systems Engineering Technology Program which will further prepare students in mechatronics systems and for Siemens Certification, Level 1. Employment is not contingent on passing MT1.