Mechatronics Engineering
Shape the Future of Automation and Robotics
The Mechatronics Engineering Program, offered jointly by UNC Asheville and NC State University, equips students with the skills to integrate electrical, mechanical, and computer engineering in complex system design. Combining live instruction with distance education, the program blends liberal arts with advanced engineering training to prepare well-rounded engineers for success in a diverse, global workforce.
Mechatronics engineering students spend all four years on the UNC Asheville campus but graduate from both NC State and UNC Asheville. Please note that this is not an online program, as students are required to attend classes live at UNC Asheville.
Rigorous Courses
A four-year Joint NC State – UNC Asheville Bachelor of Science in Engineering – Mechatronics Concentration degree.
Career Paths
Graduates can work as mechatronics engineers, automation specialists, or robotics designers, developing smart systems and advanced technologies using mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering skills.
Ideas in Motion
UNC Asheville engineering students engage in hands-on projects that bring their technical knowledge to life through real-world applications. From designing electromechanical systems to collaborating on large-scale public installations, students apply skills in design, fabrication, and problem-solving to create innovative solutions.
Application Process:
Prospective students should apply to UNC Asheville and express an interest in engineering. Once committed to UNC Asheville, engineering students will be contacted by the Joint NCSU/UNCA Engineering Programs about the process for applying to the NC State side of the program. Transfer credits from other universities, majors, and community colleges are accepted as appropriate. Many courses from NC community colleges are transferable, but care must be taken in selecting applicable courses for the mechatronics engineering curriculum.
“I knew coming out of high school I liked engineering, but I didn’t exactly know what industry I wanted to work in,” he says. “This work gave me a glimpse of the future. It helped affirm for me that I want to apply engineering to something that benefits the world. Using engineering to better the environment seems like a noble way to spend your life.”
Ideas in Motion
UNC Asheville engineering students engage in hands-on projects that bring their technical knowledge to life through real-world applications. From designing electromechanical systems to collaborating on large-scale public installations, students apply skills in design, fabrication, and problem-solving to create innovative solutions. Their work often involves interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing them to explore the intersection of engineering and creativity. These experiences not only strengthen technical expertise but also prepare students to contribute meaningfully to industry, research, and their communities.
Robots, race cars and rockets
Robert Brenneman, a graduate of the Joint NCSU/UNCA Mechatronics Engineering Program, exemplifies the power of hands-on learning and interdisciplinary collaboration. During his time in the Joint Engineering Programs, he led the chassis design for a Formula SAE race car and helped secure a second-place finish in a regional IEEE robotics competition. His education was further enriched through internships at GE Power and Eaton, where he gained valuable industry experience. Now a launchpad engineer at SpaceX, Brenneman works on fluid and mechanical systems for the company’s Starship program, applying the skills he honed through both academic and real-world challenges.
Wake
Unlike other engineering programs, the strong liberal arts and sciences foundation in the Joint NCSU/UNCA Engineering Programs paves the way for innovation, creation, and impact. These aspects come to life through student work, like the "Wake" project, a collaborative effort between art and engineering students that was installed in New York City’s Times Square.
Outside the Classroom
Outside the Classroom
Student Clubs & Orgs
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) is the world’s largest technical association, consisting of 39 technical societies involved in publications, conferences, and building technical communities. These groups focus on member outreach both locally and globally and cater to members’ specialized interests.
In the Joint NCSU/UNCA Engineering Programs, students can join the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) collegiate chapter. SAE is dedicated to advancing mobility engineering, giving students hands-on experience in designing, building, and testing vehicles while developing teamwork, project management, and real-world problem-solving skills in the field of automotive and aerospace engineering.
Learn About The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Outside the Classroom
Outside the Classroom
Mechatronics Engineering Ambassador Program
The Mechatronics Ambassadors Program (MAP) is another way students can be involved beyond the classroom. MAP organizes skill-sharing sessions, community service events, brings in local industry partners to meet with students for informational sessions and interviews, and assists the Joint Engineering Programs with recruitment. MAP is a group of outstanding students in a position held with high honor at the University. Those chosen for the program have the opportunity to develop leadership and communication skills through outreach programs to Advisory Board members, prospective students, community members, and guests at UNC Asheville.
Outside the Classroom
Outside the Classroom
Industrial Advisory Board
The Industrial Advisory Board (IAB) for the Joint BS in Engineering – Mechatronics Concentration (JEM) is a group of industry leaders who collaborate with the program to bridge the gap between academia and the engineering profession. Serving as the program’s primary source of external guidance, the IAB advises on curriculum development, supports accreditation efforts, and helps align educational goals with industry needs. Members also mentor students, assist with internships, and promote the program publicly. Additionally, the IAB contributes to fundraising efforts, providing resources for scholarships, lab equipment, and program enhancements.
Meet the Faculty and Staff
Meet the Faculty and Staff
Expert faculty from NC State and UNC Asheville nurture engineering students through their education at every step. Faculty and staff bring a range of background knowledge from experience in engineering firms, product development, NASA, Bell Labs, and more.
Related Programs
Ready for What's Next?
The Joint NCSU/UNCA Engineering Programs offer an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in an engineering discipline while experiencing a liberal arts education. Learn from faculty experts at NC State and UNC Asheville as you prepare for a future in the field.
Have questions about the program or don’t know which path is right for you? Request information or contact the Joint NCSU/UNCA Engineering Programs for assistance.