Mechatronics vs. mechanical engineering: why they’re different

What does a mechatronics engineer do?

What is the difference between mechatronics and mechanical engineering?

Which one should I choose to study?

Students trying to nail down a major may find themselves perplexed about the distinction between these two overlapping fields. Briefly put, a mechanical engineer learns how to apply the fundamental principles of physics to designing and building machines that meet human needs – from elevators to turbines. Nearly every appliance, vehicle, and device that we use required, at some point in its creation, the input of a mechanical engineer. 

A mechatronics engineer adds electronics and computing to the mix, developing sophisticated new technologies – or upgrading current ones. Students going into the field can expect to work with robots, smart machines, automated systems, and artificial intelligence – indeed, they are needed in any area where the physical, electronic, and digital intersect.

That means being able to draw on knowledge from across the domains. A robot, for example, must be programed. Its circuitry must work. And its physical design must be consistent with the functions it is expected to carry out.  

Career-wise, both are sound options, but mechanical engineers may find they need to upgrade their skills and expertise to keep up with the pace of innovation, and mechatronics engineers may – according to some sources – enjoy an edge when it comes to salary.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts average growth (9%) in employment for mechanical engineers, but cautions that “job prospects may be best for those who stay ahead of the most recent technology.” Median pay in the field is a healthy $85,800 per year.

The BLS does not provide data for mechatronics, a relatively new field. The job search engine Glassdoor, however, lists the median salary for a mechatronics engineeras an impressive $118,755.

The robust outlook doesn’t surprise Dr. Nayef Abu-Ageel, dean of academics at Capitol Technology University, which offers bachelor’s degrees in mechatronics engineering as well as mechatronics and robotics engineering technology. “With mechatronics, you’re developing multiple skill sets: mechanics, electronics, computer science, and control. Each of these is valued highly in today’s marketplace.”

“The field is really exploding. Automation is exploding in general,” Abu-Ageel says. “As a mechatronics engineer, you can work in just about any industry today.”

Interested in becoming a mechatronics engineer? Learn about degree opportunities at Capitol Tech: contact admissions@CapTechU.edu or phone 1-800-950-1992