Mechatronic Systems Engineering: MSc/PGDip
Overview
Mechatronics means the integration of electronic, mechanical and software systems in products and processes to make them smarter, cheaper, safer and more reliable.
The first of its kind when it was introduced in 1984, the Lancaster Mechatronics programme was developed as a response to industry’s need for engineers who can work confidently within such an interdisciplinary environment.
Look around at everyday products such as auto-focus cameras to fly-by-wire civil aircraft such as the Airbus series, and they all embody and demonstrate the integration of these three primary technologies. What really counts here is the system integrity and reliability in every part – for the whole of the product life cycle, so that users have justifiable confidence that the systems are safe. Mechatronics is more than just “smart mechanical engineering” - the scope of this approach, and the employment opportunities it offers is huge and diverse.
The course emphasis is on product design and systems integration involving sensors, embedded microcontrollers, computers and actuators, together with appropriate software techniques.
Many of today’s most rewarding jobs are in project engineering and project management so if you are already in or are thinking of getting into that role than this could be the course for you. If you are to manage complex projects successfully then you need to understand the technology and systems from which they are built up.
PGDip students do not undertake an individual dissertation.
Course Structure
The MSc in Mechatronic Systems Engineering can be taken as a full-time course lasting 12 months, or a part-time course lasting 24 months.
To achieve the award of MSc, students will have studied 6 modules in total; and must undertake an individual research project, based upon which they must produce a dissertation. Each module includes one week of full-time intensive lectures and group work, interleafed with practical exercises to reinforce understanding of the subject matter.
The Postgraduate Diploma in Mechatronic Systems Engineering can be taken as a full-time course lasting 9 months, or a part-time course lasting 18 months.
To achieve the award of PGDip, students will have studied 6 modules in total. Each module includes one week of full-time intensive lectures and group work, interleafed with practical exercises to reinforce understanding of the subject matter.
Modules
Part-time students do not take ENGR530: Linking Project, but can choose from one of our other MSc modules.
The course begins with an introductory week, not formally assessed, during which initial skills and guidance are given to enable students to obtain maximum benefit from the course.
Dissertation
Following the taught material, MSc students will undertake a research project within the university. The project will be associated with an industrial company. The third term (April onwards) and summer vacation are totally dedicated to the project, which is assessed by a dissertation submitted in September.
Assessment
The first five modules are assessed by a combination of exam (75%) and practical work (25%). ENGR530: Linking Project is assessed on the basis of a group report. Each module is equally weighted.
Examinations take place in April/May of each year.
Assessment for the MSc course is split evenly between the taught modules and individual dissertation; with each accounting for 50% of the final mark.
How to Apply
The minimum requirement for acceptance onto this course is an Honours degree, class 2:2 in a related technological subject. In exceptional circumstances, applicants with substantial industrial experience in a senior position may be accepted without these requirements.
Students who do not have a first degree can be admitted onto the PGDip course and transfer to the MSc after a successful first year.
Please visit our online application portal to apply. Please note, you will need to supply certificates and transcripts from your previous qualifications, academic and/or professional references from two referees and a copy of your CV.
For the latest course fees please see Lancaster University’s website.
Please contact Michelle Atkins if you have any queries.