Nearly 250 elementary and high school students from the Lower Mainland
and Vancouver Island and across North America rolled out their robotic
solutions at BCIT.
The world is quickly moving towards a future where many mechanical
products contain computers and electronics for monitoring or control.
This integration of mechanical and electronic components, or
mechatronics, makes it possible to design intelligent, reliable,
versatile electromechanical systems such as industrial robots, medical
devices, aircraft simulators, automated assembly lines, building
control systems, and autonomous vehicles. Skills in Mechatronics will
be in high demand for many years to come.
Why BCIT?
The Mechatronics and Robotics program is a unique, multidisciplinary
combination of courses that blends knowledge in electronics, mechanics,
and computer programming to provide you with both the theory and
practical skills you need to design and maintain mechatronic systems.
We are proud of the Mechatronics program, and believe that its
strengths are built on:
Great Faculty – Our faculty are dedicated to teaching. Many have extensive engineering, science, and industrial experience.
Excellent Labs – Hands-on experience with up-to-date
industrial equipment helps you to understand the concepts that you
learn in lectures and gives you job-ready, practical skills. Check out
our labs on the Lab Tour page.
Fantastic Career Choices – We are proud of our
graduates and the many interesting jobs that they do. The
multidisciplinary training and education that you’ll receive prepares
you for a leadership role in the design and creation of innovative
mechatronics products for a variety of applications. After graduation,
you might be designing and building automated equipment for the movie
industry, medical devices, production equipment, or submarines.
Degree Completion – After two years of study, you can
have a great career as a technologist. If you want to earn an
engineering degree, you can get advanced placement into engineering
programs at BCIT, University of Victoria, or other local universities.
It’s your choice – you’ll make a fantastic technologist or engineer
because of your practical training from BCIT!
View the Program Brochure
program entry
Find out more about getting started in the program!
If the Mechatronics program interests you, review the entrance requirements. If you qualify, you may want to attend an information session or become a student for a day.
Spend-A-Day with Us
Want to learn more about our program before you apply? Come spend-a-day with us. You'll meet students and instructors, and get a hands-on feel for what the program is about. Find out more »
If you have questions regarding the entrance requirements or the application process, visit Admission & Registration or if you want to discuss the program in more detail, contact the Program Head, Brent_Dunn@bcit.ca or call 604.432.8755.
The above represent minimum requirements. A composite C+ average in the required courses is desirable. Chemistry 11 is recommended. Completion of grade 12 science courses, other post-secondary education and related work experience may enhance the application.
Note: Many courses offered by other academic institutions will satisfy the admission requirements. Please submit complete descriptions of the courses that you have completed with your application for admission.
BC provincial exams
For programs beginning in August 2007 or later which require Grade 12 Math and Science courses, BCIT will not require the applicant to write the provincial exam. Provincial exam marks will still be required for English 12, Communications 12, and Technical and Professional Communications 12.
The Technology Entry (TE) program is a full-time, day school program which provides academic upgrading to students wishing to enrol in Computing, Engineering, Electronic and Health Sciences programs at BCIT.
The TE program provides courses in chemistry, communication, mathematics and physics that meet program prerequisites for selected programs at BCIT. The program also includes an introductory course in computer applications and a learning skills course. The program is supportive to those who require English-language training.
Application processing
Oct. 1 of the previous year until the program fills. Applications are considered for a specific intake.
costs & supplies
Find out how much you will need to complete your diploma in Mechatronics and Robotics!
The information below will help you determine the cost of taking the program and assist you in developing a budget for your two
years of study. If you have concerns about being able to afford the program, please visit Financial Aid to learn how you may benefit from financial assistance.
Tuition fees
Please see the Fees, Payments and Refunds section of the website for more information on full-time tuition fees.
Books and supplies
Level 1: $800; Level 2: $650; Level 3: $600; Level 4: $250
(general estimated cost, and subject to change)
courses
Explore the courses and classes you will be taking!
The Mechatronics program contains a unique blend of electronics,
mechanical, and computing courses. In the first year of the program,
emphasis is put on learning the fundamentals in topics such as
electronics, math, and physics. Additional topics include 3D
computer-aided design, machine shop practice, and programming.
In the second year of the program, you apply the fundamentals to
higher-level problems and applications in mechatronics and robotics,
culminating in a final project that encompasses many topics that you
have learned. Check out some of the projects on our Projects page.
Mechatronics Term Structure
Each year of the program is divided into two terms – the first term
runs from September to December (15 weeks) and the second term runs
from January to the end of May (20 weeks) with a one week break in the
middle. In level 4 of the program, some courses run for half a term (10
weeks) while most courses run for the whole term.
Program matrix
Level 1 (September - December, 15 weeks)
Credits
COMM 1164
Technical Writing 1 for Robotics
This course teaches clear, correct, concise, technical writing for the robotics field. Students learn how to organize technical information, illustrate documents, write routine letters and memos, prepare instructions, and produce a simple user manual. Students also learn how to prepare and deliver technical briefings.
Teaches the principles and methods of analysis related to DC circuits. Topics include SI units and terminology, voltage, current, work, energy, power and resistance, Series, parallel and series-parallel circuits are analysed and designed. Methods of analysis for more complex circuits include superposition, mesh, nodal, Thevenin, Norton, and T to Pi conversion. RMS values for sinewaves are calculated. Labs are synchronized with lectures so that theory is studied and confirmed by application.
Teaches digital numbering systems and the design of combinational logic circuits. Numbering systems are: binary, octal, hexadecimal, BCD, Excess 3 and Gray Code. Comparison of numbers and addition of 2's complement numbers are covered, as well as ASCII and parity. Truth tables and Boolean algebra are used in the design of circuits and to minimize component counts. Electronic logic gates are investigated for function and specifications. Combinational logic circuits are designed and built using NAND and NOR gates; proper DeMorgan's equivalent logic symbols are used. Encoders and decorders are introduced. Latchers and flipflops are described. Labs follow lectures so that theory is studied and confirmed by application.
Systems of linear equations, determinants, matrices. Rotations and transformations in three dimensions. Common and natural logarithms, logarithmic/semilogarithmic exponential growth and decay. Trigonometric functions, identities, solution of triangles, graphing and addition of sinusoidal functions. Complex numbers, rectangular/polar conversions, phasor representation of sinusoidal waveforms. Applications to electrical networks, circuit transients, AC theory and motion in space.
Covers techniques for producing and reading mechanical drawings using industry standards and the development of drawing skills using computer aided techniques. Topics include orthographic projection, auxiliary views, dimensioning and the hierarchy of drawings. Introduces the computer hardware and operating systems necessary in a computer aided design environment.
Emphasizes topics of special relevance to robotics/automation. Part 1: Measurement and data analysis. Part 2: Basic mechanics, including static equilibrium, work, energy, power, torque and rotational motion. Part 3: Temperature and heat. The laboratory program stresses measurement, data analysis, and experimental techniques.
Introduces the behaviour of electrical circuits when driven by a single-phase AC source as preparation for courses in electronics and power systems. The course includes: DC applied to capacitors and inductors; the sine wave, average and effective values, power and power factor; resistance, capacitance and inductance in AC circuits; phasor, impedance, admittance, and power diagrams; analysis of AC circuits using complex algebra; resonance and resonant circuits; high and low-pass filters; the application of circuit laws and theorems to AC networks; and transients in RC circuits. Circuit theory is verified in the lab using multimeters, sine wave generators and dual trace oscilloscopes. Prerequisites: ELEX 1205 and MATH 1342
The first half of this course covers: sequential logic devices such as D, J-K, and T flip-flops, counters, shift registers; electrical specifications; noise margins; propagation delay and loading considerations; interfacing to discrete devices; data multiplexing; bus structures; memory devices. The second half is an introductory electronic circuits course that provides the foundation for subsequent electronics courses in the Robotics program. The course covers: diodes and bipolar junction transistors; common emitter and common collector circuits and transistor switching; transistor biassing; field effect transistors; CMOS; frequency response of amplifiers; DC power supplies; and power amplifiers. Lab work emphasizes logical circuit layout and wiring and the use of common test equipment to analyse and troubleshoot electronic circuits. Prerequisites: ELEX 1205, ELEX 1215, MATH 2342* (*may be taken concurrently).
Covers discrete math, the derivative, differentiation, rules, applied maxima/minima and implicit differentiation. Antidifferentiation, the indefinite and the definite integral including area, mean value and RMS value. Differentiation and integration of trigonometric, logarithmic and exponential functions. Infinite series. Fourier series, evaluation of Fourier coefficients and line spectrum. Applications to DC and AC circuits and waveform analysis. Prerequisites: MATH 1342
Covers the basics of major manufacturing methods used today. Topics include metal cutting, welding, forming, casting, plastics processing, methods of numerical control and robotics programming as well as methods of measurement and inspection. The course addresses the principles upon which modern manufacturing processes are based.
This general non-calculus course, emphasizes topics of special relevance to robotics/automation. Part 1: Electricity and magnetism, including electrical forces and fields, potential, DC circuits, magnetic forces and fields, induction and AC circuits. Part 2: Mechanics, including resultants, rigid body equilibrium, structural analysis, internal forces and vibrations. The laboratory program stresses measurement, data analysis, and experimental techniques. Prerequisites: PHYS 1164 and MATH 2342** (** must be taken concurrently)
Presents structured program development using the C++ language. Fundamental programming concepts, and several practical aspects of object oriented programming such as classes and inheritance are presented. Bit manipulation and bitwise operations are included to address programming needs of the robotics field. Algorithm development is an essential component of the course and will be emphasized by solving problems from relevant areas of mathematics and machine vision.
The course begins with the differential amplifier and its small signal analysis and performance. This material forms an introduction to linear integrated circuits, particularly the operational amplifier and its circuit applications. These include an introduction to active filters, comparators, sinewave oscillators, differentiators and integrators and simple function generators. Use is made of s- plane methods of analysis where appropriate. The course continues with an introduction to feedback systems. Topics include the operational amplifier as a feedback system, simple position control servos, phase locked loops, and a general analysis of feedback amplifiers. Prerequisites: ELEX 2205 and ELEX 2220 and MATH 3342** (** must be taken concurrently)
First and second order differential equations. Step and impulse functions. Laplace transforms and inverse transforms. Solutions of differential equations by transforms. Z- transforms of discrete signals and inverse Z-transforms. Applications to electrical circuits, signal processing, analysis of circuits and systems. Maple software used. Prerequisites: MATH 2342
Introduces power transmission using pneumatic and hydraulic systems. Function, construction, methods of control, and sizing calculations for typical system components are covered. Laboratory sessions examine and apply various component and system attributes in the development and testing of simple and sequential control circuits. Prerequisites: MECH 1141
Discusses various robot configurations, the coordinate systems in which they operate and kinematics of robot motion. Investigates specifications such as accuracy, repeatability and load capability, and their importance in various applications. Machine elements used in automated equipment and associated machinery will be investigated. Prerequisites: MATH 2342 and PHYS 2164 and ROBT 1270
Covers transformers, rectifiers, voltage regulators, power supplies, dc motors, electric drives, speed torque characteristics of dc motors, braking conditions of dc motors, speed control of electric drives and selection criteria for choosing a servomotor. Prerequisites: ELEX 2205 and ELEX 2220 and MATH 2342 and PHYS 2164
Investigates the software and hardware involved in the real-time control of a microprocessor -based system. Topics include microprocessor architecture, assembly language programming, input/output operations, handshaking, protocols, timer system, interrupt handling, address decoding and interfacing techniques. Troubleshooting techniques used in a fault analysis are also taught. Throughout the course, a single board microcontroller system is used to facilitate a detailed analysis of hardware and software involved. An automated controller system is designed, built and tested. Prerequisites: ELEX 2220 and ROBT 1270
This course introduces advanced technical writing techniques and principles. In labs, students write industry-oriented reports and give technical briefings. They prepare proposals, progress reports, and documentation describing the project they designed and produced for ROBT 4491 - Robotics Project. They also write a resume and an application letter and hold meetings and interviews. Prerequisites: COMM 1164 and ROBT 4491** (** must be taken concurrently)
This course starts with a study of feedback in electronic amplifiers. This is followed by a qualitative overview of general feedback systems with emphasis on the problem of stability and the need for an appropriate controller. Electromechanical systems are then examined as a specific example and the rest of the course investigates various aspects of electromechanical feedback systems. Topics include system modelling, block diagram reduction, transfer functions, derivation of time and frequency response, stability prediction, the significance of poles and zeros, root locus and Bode plots. Students design and test various continuous time feedback systems. Controllers studied include lead-lag filters, notch filters, and various PID controllers. Consideration is also given to the problems of non-linearity and overloading. Digital controllers are considered in as much detail as time allows and students design and test at least one digital control system. Prerequisites: ROBT 3341 and ROBT 3351 and ROBT 3356 and MATH 3342 and ELEX 3321
This course introduces the ASTTBC Code of Ethics & Practice Guidelines and will familiarize the student with the principles of professional conduct in the field of applied science technology. The course consists of mandatory seminars accompanied by on-line review and testing. This course is a requirement for graduation.
Introduces electrical control of fluid power systems. Describes and analyses complex hydraulic and pneumatic components and their applications. Covers sizing calculations for system components, and discusses maintenance and troubleshooting of components and systems. Prerequisites: MECH 2350
Expands on control aspects by introducing digital and closed-loop control of fluid power systems, and provides understanding of the use of electronic components in hydraulics and pneumatics. Discusses hydrostatic transmissions, advanced hydraulic controls and methods of improving system efficiency. Prerequisites: MECH 3451
Surveys the general background of operations management in terms of planning and organizing manufacturing operations. Topics include facilities planning, layout, and location, problem solving, continuous improvement, team practices, projects planning and scheduling, and production and inventory control.
Teaches the use of a microcomputer based CAD/ CAM system. Programming the operation of CNC machine tools using the manual and computer assisted methods. Also investigates the integration of computer aided design and manufacturing. Prerequisites: MECH 1104 and MECH 1210
This course covers data acquisition and control systems of computing interfacing pertaining to the control of industrial manufacturing processes and robots. Topics include various types of sensory devices and their characteristics, analog and digital signal conditioning, A/D, D/A converters, sample and holds, isolation circuits, cabling, serial communications, V/F and F.V converters, transistor and thyristor based power interfaces. This course also provides an overview of machine vision. Prerequisites: ROBT 3351 and ROBT 3356 and ELEX 3321
Covers the application and programming of a programmable logic controllers (PLC). Topics include a description of the basic components of a PLC system, the fundamentals of ladder diagrams, PLC timers and counters, data manipulation, control and math functions, sequences and PLC programming methods. Throughout the course various industrial control examples are used for demonstrating the use of the PLC instructions. Prerequisites: ROBT 3356
Allows students to select a project based on some aspect of automated technology, endorsed by an industry sponsor. Each project team gives written and oral presentations on their proposed and completed design. Project management skills are emphasized in this course. Prerequisites: Must be completed concurrently with, or after completion of, all other level 4 courses.
The program is in a process of continuous improvement, thus the actual courses may vary from those shown.
Transfer credit
Do you have credits from another BC/Yukon post-secondary school? Do you want to know if
they transfer to courses here at BCIT? Check out BCIT's
Transfer Equivalency Database to find out.
program details
Learn more about the Mechatronics and Robotics Program!
The program information below provides a synopsis of the Mechatronics
and Robotics program. You will find out how graduates become accredited
technologists, and how your education and training provide a stepping
stone to an engineering degree.
A typical week
You will spend approximately 30 hours in labs and lectures each week.
Classes are scheduled Monday to Friday between 8:30 am - 5:30 pm. You
will typically spend an additional 30 hours each week preparing,
completing assignments, and studying.
Overall, approximately 50% of your time is spent in lectures, and
50% in labs, giving you a great opportunity to understand the theory
and principles while learning practical skills.
Our labs have the latest software and equipment and you will work
at your own workstation in many of the labs. Check out our labs on the Lab Tour page.
Small class sizes help you learn
The Mechatronics program accepts 2 sets of students each year with 18
students per set. Both sets are combined for lectures, but separated
for labs and tutorials, giving you better access to equipment and
assistance in the labs. Small classes encourage an atmosphere of
camaraderie, healthy competition, and teamwork, and allow instructors
to provide plenty of individual attention to students.
Program length
Two years, full-time beginning in September each year
Accreditation
The Mechatronics and Robotics program is accredited by the Canadian Technology Accreditation Board (CTAB) for the Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists (CCTT) as a technologist program. Full-time students may apply for student membership with the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of British Columbia (ASTTBC). Graduates are eligible for Graduate Technologist (ASTTBC) membership and may apply for registration as an Applied Science Technologist after completing a minimum of two years of relevant experience
Continue Your Education
Degree Completion
If you graduate from the Mechatronics and Robotics program with sufficient standing, many opportunities exist for you to further your education in technology and engineering.
You can continue studying full-time towards an engineering degree at either BCIT or at other universities. BCIT's Electrical Engineering degree is a four year program that accepts students from the Mechatronics and Robotics program. BCIT also has transfer agreements with the University of Victoria and Lakehead University where you can enter the third year of their engineering programs. You can also continue your studies at UBC or SFU where you will receive partial credit towards their engineering degrees.
If you would like to earn a degree while you are working, you can study part-time towards a Bachelor of Technology degree at BCIT in either Manufacturing or Electronics. Graduates of the Bachelor of Technology in Electronics are able to pursue registration as a professional engineer.
graduating & jobs
Explore the exceptional career opportunities in Mechatronics and Robotics!
What's in it for you?
A rewarding job as a technologist
Qualified technologists are well paid and in high demand. A BCIT
diploma opens the door to an exciting job as a technical expert who
performs a variety of tasks, and who helps others by solving a wide
range of technical problems.
Technologists are respected as
hard-working, creative, and knowledgeable people. You can investigate
salaries on the compensation page of the Applied Science Technologists
and Technicians of British Columbia.
An edge in the job market
A BCIT diploma shows potential employers that you are accomplished,
focused, and serious about your chosen career path. BCIT programs and
courses provide both fundamental theoretical knowledge and hands-on
practical skills to help you be job-ready. Graduates say that BCIT was
extremely helpful in preparing them for employment.
A broad range of employment possibilities
The potential job market for Mechatronics and Robotics
technologists is great. You could either start your own business or
work for a small or large company. Graduates can work in research and
development, technical sales, project management, planning, technical
writing, and many other fields in addition to the traditional
technology areas.
Some of the many employers of BCIT's Mechatronics and Robotics graduates include:
Check out more companies that have hired our grads on our employment page.
Great Credentials – A Diploma or a Degree
After you earn your diploma, you can work as a technologist. After
two years of relevant work experience you can apply for accreditation
as an Applied Science Technologist (AScT). You may also choose to
pursue a bachelor's degree in engineering, with your diploma giving you
a head start
Graduate employment outcomes
The following link takes you to graduate outcome survey results
containing mostly labour market results from the 2005-2007 BCIT
Outcomes Surveys of 2004-2006 Graduates.
Note: The survey results will be displayed in a separate browser window. To view these results, you need to have the Adobe Acrobat Reader installed in your Web browser.
The instructors and staff of the Mechatronics and Robotics program are
dedicated professionals with a range of experience in electrical,
mechanical, engineering, and science. All instructors, whether teaching
foundation courses such as math, or technology-specific courses such as
robot applications, are dedicated to helping you learn the theory and
practical aspects of Mechatronics.
Mechatronics and Robotics Faculty
Brent Dunn, BASc, MEng, PEng, Program Head, Mechatronics and Robotics
Brian Gaensbauer, DiplT, BTech, Assistant Instructor, Mechatronics and Robotics
Pavlos Paleologou, MSc, MEng, Instructor, Mechatronics and Robotics
Paul Morrison, DiplT, BEng, AScT, Associate Dean
Trevor Williams, BSc, MSc (Mech Eng), PEng, Dean, School of Manufacturing, Electronics and Industrial Processes
Other Faculty
Cyrus Raoufi, PhD, PEng, Instructor, Mechanical Engineering
Want to learn more about our program before you apply? Come spend-a-day
with us. You'll meet students and instructors, and get a hands-on feel
for what the program is about. Find out more »
If you want to discuss the program in more detail, contact the Program Head, Brent_Dunn@bcit.ca or 604.432.8755.
Questions or comments?
Please ensure you have reviewed the detailed information on this site,
using the navigation to the left, before submitting the form below.
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(for mailing addresses within North America only)
As BCIT strives to keep our programs current, programs and courses are subject to change without notice.
Using Her Creative Skills to Help Bring Ideas to Life!
"You never know what's going to come through the door," says Nancy
Knaggs with a smile. Nancy is a Research Technologist at the BCIT
Technology Centre. More »
Testimonial
Mechatronics and Robotics One Step in a Career Path!
Colin Harraway has discovered that a career path can be a series of
stepping stones, each leading towards a goal, although one may not
always know the road or the destination in advance. More »
No Longer Trapped Behind a Desk
Regan Mlodzinski, BCIT Robotics and Automation Technology graduate