International College

Study mechatronic and robotics engineering

Mechatronic and robotics engineering — part of the wider field of Automatic Control Systems Engineering — plays a huge role in industries worldwide. Study at University of Sheffield and look forward to exciting career opportunities.

Mechatronic and robotic engineering at University of Sheffield

The Department of Automatic Control and Systems Engineering was established more than 50 years ago and has been making advances in the field ever since. It is now the largest department of its type in Europe.

During your degree, you will learn to design and test transforming robots, autonomous vehicles and other complex electro-mechanical systems. You will work with modern microprocessor technology and also explore advanced concepts including manufacturing systems, noise and vibration control, spacecraft systems and robot technology.

When you graduate, you will be confident you have the skills you need to succeed in your career.

Mechatronic and robotic engineering degree options at University of Sheffield

Department of Automatic Control and Systems Engineering rankings

No 1 in the UK for research output
Research Excellence Framework 2014

Degree preparation at the International College

The University of Sheffield International College offers specialist university preparation for international students. On our pathway programmes, you will study key subject modules to prepare you for your degree, while also building confidence in your English language and study skills. Whether you are aiming for undergraduate or postgraduate study, you will have the confidence to succeed once you progress to the University of Sheffield.

Your pathways to studying at the University of Sheffield:

Entry requirements

International Foundation Year 

  • 3 term programme: Academic IELTS for UKVI 5.0 with minimum 5.0 in writing (minimum of 4.0 in other skills)
  • 2 term programme: Academic IELTS for UKVI 6.0 (minimum 5.0 in all skills)

Pre-Masters

  • 3 term programme: Academic IELTS for UKVI 5.5 (minimum 5.5 in all skills)
  • 2 term programme: Academic IELTS for UKVI 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in all skills)

Mechatronic and robotic engineering?

Mechatronic and robotic engineering will help you develop a broad range of transferrable skills for your career. Some of the benefits include:

As part of your degree, you will learn computer programming languages and algorithm design, both skills that are highly in demand in today's workplaces.

Group work is key for engineers to troubleshoot problems. The ability to share knowledge, listen and lead teams is a valuable skill no matter what job you choose when you graduate.

Engineering is all about solving problems. From improving processes to doing jobs humans can't, the systems created by engineers drive efficiency in all areas of life. You will graduate with resilience and perseverance, understanding that things don't always work the first time you try them. 

Should I study mechatronic and robotics engineering at Sheffield?

What can I do with a mechatronic and robotics degree?

Sheffield graduates work in a range of engineering fields, such as manufacturing, power generation and sustainable energy, with companies including British Airways, Rolls-Royce, IBM, and Unilever. You could also become a researcher.

Engineering careers include:

  • systems engineer
  • robotics engineer
  • automation engineer

Related careers include:

  • production manager
  • computer scientist
  • lecturer.

Mechatronic and robotic engineering FAQs

We are surrounded by machines –including robots, turbines and engines. These can be used for jobs that may be considered too menial, repetitive or dangerous for humans to perform. Mechatronic and robotics engineering deals with the design, construction and operation of these systems and the computer programmes that run them.

If you want to study mechatronic and robotic engineering at university you will need to meet certain entry requirements. You will need high grades at A Level or the equivalent, typically in Maths and Physics. If you want to study mechatronic and robotic engineering in the UK as an international student, you can study the International Foundation Year in Science and Engineering which will prepare you for a degree at the University of Sheffield.

Studying a degree in mechatronic and robotic engineering will allow you to pursue a variety of careers with a range of different salaries. As a systems engineer, you could earn an average of £57,500, while as an automation engineer the average salary in the UK is £50,432.

An undergraduate degree in mechatronic and robotic engineering lasts three years. Some universities offer the chance to do a year’s work placement, making the course four years in length.

To study a degree in mechatronic and robotic engineering you will typically need to have studied Maths and a science subject at A Level or equivalent. Other subjects that can help you when applying to study mechatronic and robotic engineering at university include Computer Science, Chemistry, Further Maths and Design and Technology.

Mechatronic and robotic engineering use maths throughout the course. You will be using methods such as algebra, geometry and control theory, so a maths qualification will be hugely beneficial for your degree.

Key skills needed for robotics include:

  • Numeracy
  • Communication
  • Programming
  • Problem solving
  • Decision making
  • Persistence
  • Critical thinking

Born in Russia. Made in Sheffield.

International student Artem in engineering lab at University of Sheffield

Every academic tutor is very helpful. They dedicate themselves individually to students and if anything is wrong, they can see it and they can try to help that particular student. They have quite a few expectations of you and that's what keeps you going actually, because you want to fulfil those expectations.

Artem from Russia

Studied International Foundation Year – Science and Engineering

Find out more about starting your studies or check the latest COVID-19 information.