Michigan Technological University

What you'll study

This master's programme combines core engineering science with applied topics in mechanical, electrical and software engineering to deliver a practical, multidisciplinary education in mechatronics, robotics and automation. Students study system modelling and dynamics, control theory, sensors and actuators, embedded systems and real-time computing, industrial automation and programmable logic controllers, robot kinematics and dynamics, and perception including computer vision and signal processing.

Typical modules and subject areas include:

• Dynamics and kinematics of robotic systems — modelling of manipulators, trajectory planning and motion control.
• Control systems — classical and modern control, state-space design, robust and adaptive control, and digital control implementation.
• Embedded systems and real‑time computing — microcontrollers, FPGA usage, low-latency control loops and hardware/software integration.
• Sensors, actuators and instrumentation — transducers, motor drives, power electronics and sensor fusion.
• Industrial automation — PLCs, SCADA, communication protocols and manufacturing systems engineering.
• Perception and autonomy — computer vision, LiDAR processing, SLAM and basic machine learning methods for robotics.
• Mechatronic design and prototyping — multidisciplinary design projects, CAD, rapid prototyping and testing in lab environments.

The programme is offered with flexible study options: coursework-only, a project-based option or a research thesis. Students typically complete advanced coursework credits, participate in laboratory courses or design projects, and may undertake a capstone integrative project or thesis under faculty supervision. Hands-on laboratory work and team-based design projects are central components.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree in engineering (mechanical, electrical, computer, mechatronics, systems engineering) or a closely related quantitative discipline. Typical admissions expectations include a solid foundation in calculus, linear algebra, basic dynamics, circuits and programming. Some applicants with different backgrounds may be admitted conditional on completing prerequisite coursework.

Admissions committees look for a strong undergraduate record, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose describing relevant experience and goals, and a résumé highlighting engineering or technical experience. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted test unless exempt. The programme commonly offers research and teaching assistantships to qualified students; funding decisions are made during the admissions process.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for technical and leadership roles in industries adopting automation and robotics. Common job titles include robotics engineer, controls engineer, automation engineer, systems integration engineer, mechatronics design engineer, perception/vision engineer and research engineer. Employers span automotive and transportation, advanced manufacturing, industrial automation, aerospace, medical devices, energy and robotics start-ups.

Alumni progress into roles focused on system design and integration, control and motion systems, embedded software development, and research and development. The programme also prepares students for PhD study if they wish to pursue academic or advanced research careers.

Why study at Michigan Technological University

Michigan Tech is known for its applied engineering education and strong emphasis on hands-on learning. Students benefit from multidisciplinary faculty expertise across mechanical, electrical and computer engineering areas and access to dedicated laboratories for robotics, controls and mechatronics education. The university supports student-led projects and enterprises that give real-world design and build experience.

Graduate students find opportunities for collaborative research with faculty and industry partners, internships in regional and national firms, and access to maker spaces and prototyping facilities. The campus culture emphasises experiential learning, which suits students who want practical skills in designing, programming and testing automated systems and robots.