Mechatronics

Gain the specialized skills needed to work in various industrial environments and advanced manufacturing facilities, contributing to the design, implementation, and maintenance of robotic equipment, automation systems, and new product designs.

Home / Learn / Programs List / Mechatronics
Credential
Ontario College Diploma
Duration
Two years
Start Date(s)
September (Fall)
Locations
Belleville
Open to
International Students
Domestic Students

Ministry-approved program title: Electromechanical Engineering Technician – Mechatronics

Find your career

Graduates of this program may play an integral role in: 

  • Testing, installing and maintaining automated systems and robotics and electrical systems. 
  • PLC programming and implementation. 
  • Supporting computer and electronic goods production. 
  • Developing and monitoring equipment in manufacturing operations. 
  • Computer and electronics production. 
  • Installing and maintaining electrical systems. 
  • Wholesale trade in machinery and equipment distribution. 
  • Consulting across industries to support business and the public sector. 
  • Prototype development.

Is it for you?

This program holds rewarding opportunities for students who: 

  • Are drawn to knowing how things work. 
  • Enjoy creative problem-solving. 
  • Get excited about working with and learning about new technology.

How you'll learn

Experiential learning 

Learn through practical training and hands-on learning experiences: 

  • Interpret and produce electrical, electronic, and mechanical drawings and other related technical documents and graphics for a variety of stakeholders in compliance with industry standards. 
  • Fabricate and build electrical, electronic, and mechanical components and assemblies in accordance with operating standards, job requirements, and specifications. 
  • Select and use a variety of troubleshooting techniques and equipment to assess, maintain, and repair electromechanical circuits, equipment, processes, systems, and subsystems. 
  • Apply, analyze, build, install, commission, and troubleshoot a variety of mechanical, electrical, and electronic control systems, logic and digital circuits, passive AC and DC circuits, and active circuits. 
  • Install and troubleshoot basic computer hardware and programming to support the electromechanical engineering environment. 
  • Maintain and troubleshoot automated equipment including robotic systems. 
  • Assist in applying quality control and quality assurance program procedures to meet organizational standards and requirements. 
  • Students in the program will have an opportunity to obtain the two levels of the Siemens Mechatronic Systems Certification Program (SMSCP). 

Outstanding faculty make the difference 

Learn in well-equipped labs with knowledgeable and dedicated faculty: 

  • Professors have wide-ranging industry knowledge and experience across mechanical, electrical, electronics and automation areas of engineering. 

Courses

ELTP1001 Basic Electricity

Students learn the fundamental electrical principals and DC series, parallel and combination resistive, capacitive and inductive circuits. Basic AC and an introduction to three-phase power are also covered, as well as the fundamental mathematical concepts used to describe basic electricity and electronics.

MANU1009 Blueprint Reading 1

This course covers the theory, conventions, standards and procedures associated with the preparation of mechanical drawings. Orthographic drawings, pictorial drawings, sectional views, auxiliary views and principles of dimensioning are discussed to help students develop the skills to properly read blueprints. The course also introduces the student to computer aided design using AutoCAD.

ELTP1005 Industrial Control

Students install electric motor control circuits using relays, contactors, starters, push buttons and other electrical control devices. This course also covers electronic and electro-mechanical sensing devices commonly used in industrial applications.

MECH1001 Machine Maintenance 1

Students are introduced to standard practices used in the inspection, dismantling and replacement of components such as bearings, chain and belt drives, and couplings.

MANU1000 Machine Tools 1

Students will learn the basics of metal cutting using various machine shop tools including engine lathes, milling machines, drill presses, grinders, as well as various hand tools. Shop safety aspects and principles of metal cutting are discussed.

MATH1014 Technical Math 1

In this course, students demonstrate basic analytical skills and are prepared for further studies in mathematics. Topics include basic number systems and operations, basic algebraic operations and equations, units and measurement, and solving word problems.

GNED1100 Becoming a Global Changemaker

This Loyalist College graduate attributes course will help shape your perspectives, broaden your understanding of important issues affecting our societies today, and equip you with invaluable knowledge and skills that will inform your ability to influence your community in a meaningful and impactful way. By exploring topics such as cultural competency, Indigenous education, entrepreneurship, sustainability, health and wellness, and ecological literacy, you'll be equipped with a powerful toolkit that extends far beyond the classroom.

ELTP1007 Advanced Electricity

Students demonstrate the fundamental concepts of AC electricity in both single and three-phase applications, AC reactance and impedance, power factor, power factor correction and the analysis and troubleshooting of AC circuits. Magnetism, transformers, three-phase power and other topics related to AC systems are also included. Prerequisite: ELTP 1001, MATH 1018

CADD1021 Blueprint Reading & CAD 2

Students learn the interpretation of installation, assembly and detail drawings as applied to the maintenance trade. Prerequisite: MANU 1009

ELTP1009 Fluid Power and Control

This course covers the basics of pneumatic and hydraulic systems. Common electrical and fluid symbols, drawings and devices are also covered. Emphasis will be placed on hands-on application of learning. Prerequisite: ELTP 1002, ELTP 1005

ELTP1000 Industrial Control Electronics

Students develop an understanding of semiconductor devices such as diodes, transistors, SCRs, TRIACs and their application. Other electronic devices used in power supplies, amplifiers motor control and other industrial control equipment are also included. Prerequisite: ELTP 1001

MANU2009 Lean Manufacturing

This course introduces the learner to Lean principles and business processes. Businesses uses these principles to eliminate waste so that resources are used efficiently.

SAFE1001 Occupational Health & Safety 1

Students learn the rights and responsibilities under the OHSA. Safety related to the uses of overhead cranes, forklifts, proper hook-ups lifting loads, and awareness to safety concerns within the industry are introduced.

ELTP1006 Programmable Logic Controller Fundamentals

This course provides an overview of the programmable logic controller, PLC installation and I/O wiring procedures, general PLC programming procedures, basic PLC programming, memory basics, number systems and PLC timers, counters, arithmetic functions, number comparison function and data move functions. Prerequisite: ELTP 1001, ELTP 1005

GNED General Education Elective

ELTP2001 Advanced Programmable Logic Controllers

This course covers advanced use of the Programmable Logic Controllers and necessary instructions for advance control and communications. This course will include the Tag Based Programming used in the Control Logix Platform. It will also introduce students to Remote I/O and network control. Prerequisite: ELTP 1006

CADD2002 CAD 3

This is a continuation of CAD 2 where more advanced techniques are introduced. Students learn to generate solids and wire from images using AutoCAD and CADkey software. Prerequisite: CADD 1021

MECA2001 Components & Electrical

This course covers the basics of mechanical components and electrical drives in a complex mechatronic system. Based on a physical system, students will learn the basic functions and physical properties of mechanical components as well as electrical drives (AC and DC), and the roles they play within the system. They will also learn about mechanical components which lead and support the energy through a mechanical system to increase efficiency and to reduce wear and tear. Materials, lubrication requirements and surface properties will be examined. Technical documentation such as data sheets and specifications of mechanical elements and electrical drives will also be covered. By understanding the inner workings of the complete system, students will learn and apply troubleshooting strategies to identify, localize, and (where possible) correct malfunctions. Preventive maintenance of mechanical elements and electrical drives as well as safety issues within the system will be discussed.

MECA2000 Electrical Components (SMSCP)

This course covers the basics of electrical components in a complex mechatronic system. Based upon a physical system, students will learn the basic functions and physical properties of electrical components, and the roles they play within the system. Technical documentation such as datasheets, schematics, timing diagrams, and system specifications will also be covered. By understanding the complete system, the flow of energy through it, and measurements on the components, students will learn and apply troubleshooting strategies to identify, localize, and (where possible) correct malfunctions. Preventive maintenance and safety issues for electrical components within the system will be discussed.

ELTP2016 Instrumentation Systems Theory and Practical

Prerequisite: ELTP 1002, ELTP 1005, ELTP 1006

MATH2008 Technical Math 2

Students learn the basic concepts of calculus using practical applications. Includes a study of statistics required to provide information for reports and documents. Prerequisite: MATH 1018

GNED General Education Elective

MECA2004 Automation Systems (SMSCP)

The Automation Systems course is divided into two main branches; Manufacturing Technologies, including CNC, CAD and CAM; and Microcontrollers and Programming, which constitute essential tools in modern manufacturing, particularly in mechatronic systems. Learners will gain the ability to create basic microcontroller programs and will be able to describe and identify the functionality of common manufacturing technologies. Prerequisite: MANU 1000, CADD 2002, MECA 2001

ELTP2005 Instrumentation & Digital Control Systems

This course builds on knowledge from the previous semester. Students demonstrate how to interface Analog control into the Automation system as a whole. Prerequisite: ELTP 2001, ELTP 2016

MECA2003 Integrated Automation

Students are introduced to the Siemens "Totally Integrated Automation" concept by examining the automation pyramid. Topics include a field-level introduction to analog modules, sensors and output devices used in manufacturing and process control applications. Focus on wiring methods, troubleshooting and sealing functions for these components will be emphasized. Specialized S7 programming instructions, including Comparison, Move, Jump and Conversion commands are employed to translate Real and Raw data formats from a field device. Participants will gain fundamental knowledge of I-O link, Multi-point interfaces and Profibus cabling used for communication between PLC's and Fieldbus devices. Efficient use of emulation software will complement the learner's ability to develop and test various models of advanced programming and integration. Prerequisite: ELTP 2016

MANU2006 Mechanics and Machine Elements

The objective of this course is to provide the concepts and procedures required to design and select common machine elements, such as bearings, gears, belts, chains, etc. found in mechanical devices and systems. Prerequisite: MATH 1016 or MATH 2008

MECA2005 Motor Control (SMSC)

Students are introduced to theories and practices related to all types of motors and control systems. Topics include - DC motors and generators, AC motors and generators, stepper motors and servo motors. Students will be expected to follow Canadian electrical code standards with regard to proper sizing of conductors, overload and circuit over current protection, as well as motor classifications per location and bonding. Mechanical best practices of guarding of moving parts and pinch points. Motor drive system alignment and lock out of all energy systems will be observed.

MECA2002 Robotics

This course will introduce the basics of industrial and collaborative robots and various industry-related applications. Students will learn basic principles related to the operation, programing, and service of modern robots. Proper robot safety procedures and hardware will be emphasized throughout the course. There will also be an introduction to offline programming. Prerequisite: ELTP 1009, MECA 2000

*Courses subject to change.

Two students in a mechatronics admissions lab are looking down at a table, focused on a computer. The lab is equipped with various technical devices, creating a hands-on learning environment. Fourteen green graphic circles are in the lower lefthand corner of the image.

Admission requirements

Required academic preparation 

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. 
  • OSSD Courses at the general, advanced, (C), (U), or (M) level, and Grade 12 English (C) level or equivalent. 

OR 

Prior learning assessment and recognition (PLAR) 

Do you have work experience or other types of non-credentialed learning? Through Loyalist’s PLAR program, applicants and current students may be eligible to receive academic credit for relevant educational, work and life experiences. 

International students  

Learn more about admission requirements for international applicants and how to apply.  

Costs

Approximate costs (2024 – 25) 

  • Domestic Tuition: $2,722.08 
  • Full-Time Ancillary Fees:* $1,367 
  • Total: $4,089.08 

Additional costs, such as supplies, travel and parking, may be incurred during workplace visits, etc.   

*Fees related to programs that are less than or greater than two semesters will be adjusted accordingly. Fees are subject to change. Please visit the Tuition and fees page for a list of the many services, activities and items included within the ancillary fees, and the related policies. 

Paying for college 

At Loyalist College, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to your success. We’re here to help you navigate the costs of college and connect you with a variety of financial aid programs, resources and donor-supported awards. Explore paying for college.   

Schulich Builders 

Students enrolling in this program may be eligible for the Schulich Builders scholarship program. 

Schulich Builders covers tuition, tools and living expenses for students enrolling in a skilled trades program. Loyalist College will award ten scholarships per year: 

  • Five $20,000 scholarships for one-year certificate programs, and 
  • Five $40,000 scholarships for two-year diploma programs

Learn more and apply today!

Approximate costs (2024 – 25) 

  • International Tuition: $15,000 
  • Full-Time Ancillary Fees:* $1,367 
  • Mandatory Health Insurance: $659 
  • Total: $17,026 

Additional costs, such as supplies, travel and parking, may be incurred during workplace visits, etc.   

*Fees related to programs that are less than or greater than two semesters will be adjusted accordingly. Fees are subject to change. Please visit the Tuition and fees page for a list of the many services, activities and items included within the ancillary fees, and the related policies. 

Paying for college 

At Loyalist College, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to your success. We’re here to help you navigate the costs of college and connect you with a variety of financial aid programs, resources and donor-supported awards. Explore paying for college.

A mechatronics student is positioned on the right side of the image, looking at a device towards the left. The student has their hair clipped back, is wearing goggles, a black shirt, and is holding or strapped to a device on their left hand, focused on the task at hand Fourteen blue graphic circles are in the lower lefthand corner of the image.

Further study

Pathways and university transfer 

What’s next? Build on the knowledge and skills you learned at Loyalist by continuing your academic journey. Return to Loyalist to complete a second diploma or a post-graduate program in as little as a year, or receive credit recognition for your Loyalist studies when pursuing a degree at a university. Explore pathway opportunities 

  • Graduates of the Manufacturing Engineering Technician, Electrical Techniques or Electrical Engineering Technician – Industrial programs may earn advanced entry to the second year of this program. 
  • Graduates of this program will ladder well into the second year of Loyalist College’s Electrical Engineering Technician – Industrial or Manufacturing Engineering Technician diploma programs, allowing for students to obtain a second diploma in only two years. 
  • Graduates of this program may also ladder into a three-year Bachelor of Engineering program, through Loyalist’s articulation agreement with the Limerick Institute of Technology, or other related undergraduate programs. 
  • Graduates of this program are prepared for placement in a variety of industrial-related apprenticeships.

Autodesk certification 

  • Students are eligible to take the Autodesk certification exams at Loyalist College. Completing these industry-recognized credentials enables students to highlight that they have the in-demand skills employers are seeking.