Kent State University

What you'll study

This programme blends fundamentals in mathematics, physics and core engineering with specialist subjects in mechatronics, robotics and automation. Early years focus on calculus, linear algebra, classical mechanics, electrical circuits, digital systems and programming. Progressing modules introduce control systems, sensors and actuators, embedded systems, microcontrollers, power electronics, industrial networks and programmable logic controllers (PLCs).

• Mechanical topics: dynamics, kinematics, CAD, materials and manufacturing processes.
• Electrical and electronics: circuit analysis, analog and digital electronics, power systems and drives.
• Control and automation: feedback control, PID, state‑space methods, industrial automation and PLC programming.
• Robotics and intelligent systems: robot kinematics and dynamics, motion planning, machine perception, sensors and computer vision fundamentals.
• Software and embedded systems: C/C++ for embedded devices, real‑time systems, ROS (Robot Operating System) concepts and industrial communications.
• Design and project work: laboratory courses, multidisciplinary team projects and a year‑long capstone design project that emphasises system integration, prototyping and testing.

Laboratory work and practical coursework form an essential component of the degree; students use sensors, actuators, microcontrollers, PLCs, robotic arms and simulation tools. Elective options allow deeper study in areas such as machine learning for robotics, advanced control, autonomous systems or industrial IoT.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification with strong preparation in mathematics (including algebra and pre‑calculus, with calculus preferred) and physics. Admissions typically consider academic transcripts, recommendation letters and an applicant’s demonstrated interest in STEM subjects; standardised tests may be optional depending on the admissions cycle.

International applicants must present an equivalent academic credential and demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or exempting qualifications. Mature applicants and those with relevant technical diplomas or work experience may be considered through the university’s standard admissions pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles across manufacturing, robotics, automation, and systems engineering. Typical job titles include:

• Automation engineer / Controls engineer
• Robotics engineer / Robot programmer
• Systems integrator / Mechatronics engineer
• Manufacturing engineer / Process engineer
• Embedded systems engineer / Firmware developer

Alumni also move into research and development, product design, test and validation, systems engineering, and project management, or continue to postgraduate study in specialised areas such as robotics, controls, artificial intelligence or manufacturing engineering. The skill set is applicable across sectors including automotive, aerospace, consumer electronics, logistics, medical devices and automation consultancies.

Why study at Kent State University

Kent State combines an applied, multidisciplinary curriculum with hands‑on laboratory learning and team‑based projects, giving students practical experience of building and testing automated systems. The university’s engineering programmes emphasise close faculty interaction, small lab groups and opportunities for internships and industry collaborations in the Northeast Ohio manufacturing and technology corridor.

Students benefit from modern lab facilities, access to industry‑grade tools and software, and a capstone sequence designed to mirror professional engineering practice. Support services include academic advising, career services and connections to regional employers for co‑op placements and internships that help bridge classroom learning with employability.