University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This programme delivers an integrated mix of mechanical engineering, electronic systems, control theory and software for automation. Core study areas include sensors and actuators, control systems and dynamics, embedded systems and real‑time software, robotics and mechatronic systems design, and power electronics. Students also complete modules in professional engineering practice, systems engineering and project management to prepare for workplace leadership.

Typical topics and modules you can expect to encounter are:

• Mechatronic Systems Design — systems modelling, integration of mechanical, electrical and software subsystems, and design optimisation.
• Control Systems and Robotics — classical and modern control, motion control, trajectory planning and robotic manipulators.
• Embedded Systems and Real‑Time Software — microcontrollers, embedded Linux, hardware‑software co‑design and real‑time constraints.
• Sensors, Instrumentation and Signal Processing — sensor selection, conditioning, data acquisition and digital signal processing techniques.
• Power Electronics and Drives — motor drives, power conversion and energy management for mechatronic applications.
• Manufacturing and Automation — industrial automation, PLCs, computer integrated manufacturing and factory systems.
• Professional Engineering Practice — ethics, risk management, engineering economics, regulation and communication skills.
• Capstone Project or Industry Project — an extended design or research project that applies multi‑disciplinary skills to a real engineering problem, often with industry engagement.

The degree emphasises hands‑on laboratory work, team design projects and a substantial practical project or industry placement that consolidates technical learning and professional competencies.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised undergraduate engineering degree (or equivalent) in mechanical, electrical, mechatronic or a closely related discipline. Graduates of non‑engineering degrees with substantial relevant technical experience or completion of qualifying bridging subjects may be considered on a case‑by‑case basis.

Other typical requirements include:

• Academic transcripts demonstrating relevant prior study in mathematics, dynamics, circuits and programming or equivalent coursework.
• A curriculum vitae outlining any professional engineering experience, projects or industry placements.
• International applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements, demonstrated by an accepted test or equivalent qualifications.
• Admission may be subject to an interview or provision of a portfolio of engineering work for some candidates.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Professional Engineering (Mechatronic) move into roles that design, develop and maintain intelligent electromechanical systems across many sectors. Typical job titles include automation engineer, robotics engineer, controls engineer, systems integration engineer, embedded systems engineer and product development engineer.

Employment sectors include advanced manufacturing, automotive and transport, defence and aerospace, mining and resources, medical devices, renewable energy and instrumentation. The combination of technical depth and professional practice prepares graduates for project leadership, multidisciplinary team roles and for pathways to chartered/registered professional engineering status where applicable.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers this programme with a focus on hands‑on learning, industry engagement and applied project work. Students benefit from modern laboratories and workshops equipped for robotics, automation, sensors and embedded systems development, and have opportunities to work with research groups and industry partners involved in advanced manufacturing and automation.

The course is structured to align technical skill development with professional competencies valued by employers, and the University maintains links with local and national engineering employers to support industry projects and graduate employment. For students seeking a practice‑oriented pathway into advanced engineering roles, the University of Adelaide provides a supportive environment with academic staff who have both research and industry experience in mechatronics and automation.