Department of Mechatronics Engineering

Bringing machines to life through design, code and innovation.

A New Kind of Engineering Experience

Join one of only three Mechatronics Engineering programs in the California State University system. At CSUMB, you'll enter a tight-knit, forward-looking department where students apply knowledge in the lab and in the field: designing solutions for the agriculture, aerospace, and marine sectors. With small class sizes, direct faculty access, and renovated labs, you won't just study engineering theory, you'll put theory into practice

B.S. in Mechatronics Engineering

Our interdisciplinary program fuses mechanical engineering, electronics, and computer science. Students develop skills in embedded systems, robotics, automation, and control theory—while also mastering core principles in mechanical and electrical systems, computer programming, and systems design.

Through a hands-on curriculum that includes technical training, internships, and a year-long capstone project, students gain experience designing and implementing solutions to real-world challenges. Whether you’re building autonomous robots, programming sensor networks, or prototyping a product for industry partners, the program prepares you to step confidently into engineering careers or graduate study.

Academic Pathways

Whether you're beginning as a first-year student or transferring from a community college, our flexible pathways help you graduate prepared to lead in advanced engineering fields.

Four-Year Pathway

Designed for incoming first-year students, this pathway offers a comprehensive foundation in engineering, physics, mathematics, and computer science. Coursework includes machining, circuit analysis, embedded systems, and digital logic design. Students also complete general education requirements, a professional internship, and a capstone design sequence.

Two-Year Transfer Pathway

This accelerated option is tailored for students who’ve already completed core prerequisites in engineering, math, science, and programming. Transfer students jump into advanced coursework like machine design and embedded systems and complete a hands-on internship and senior capstone project to round out their degree.

“Being part of the first cohort has been a great experience. The small classes make it easy to ask questions, and we get to try out everything: from CAD to robotics. The professors have been really supportive and easy to talk to, which makes a big difference.”

— Senior Mechatronics Engineering student Mysti Santiago

Support Systems for Academic and Career Growth

From student organizations to campus-wide services, you’ll find a network of support that strengthens both your academic and personal growth.

Engineering Club

CSUMB's Engineering Club offers mechatronics students opportunities to connect with  fellow engineering students and opens doors to to internships, competitions, and peer collaboration.

Campus Resources

From advising and career coaching to mental health support and peer tutoring, CSUMB offers a wide range of services that ensure students are supported from their first semester through graduation.

Program

Mechatronics Engineering, B.S.

The Mechatronics Engineering program will put you at the forefront of this emerging discipline, preparing you to integrate mechanical engineering, electronics and intelligent computer controls in ways that can lead to powerful careers across several industries.

Two student working togther on a machine in the mechatronics lab

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Built for Experience and Impact

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Internships That Launch Careers

Every student completes an internship, earning credit while gaining real-world experience. Students have interned with companies in fields including metal fabrication, aviation, robotics, and automation.

A student sitting in front of laptop and three people standing around him

Faculty-Led Research with Real Outcomes

Faculty mentorship is central to our program. Students collaborate with faculty on research projects on topics ranging from to polymer composite materials to autonomous harvesters, AI-enabled co-bots, plant canopy imaging and robotic sprayers.

Four students working together on electric board

Senior Capstone Projects

In their final year, students design and build working prototypes, sometimes in partnership with community or industry sponsors. This year-long experience brings together everything students have learned.

mechatronics machine

Engineering Tools for Real-World Design

Students train in labs equipped for rapid prototyping, circuit testing, robotics assembly and software development. You’ll work with cutting-edge tools in spaces designed for innovation.

A student writing on white board and other students sitting in the classroom

Ready to Learn More?

Have questions about the program, courses, or opportunities within mechatronics engineering? Our department is available to help!

Email us at mechatronics@csumb.edu or call 831-582-3323.

Luis Cabrales Arriaga

Department Chair

Accreditation and Outcomes

CSUMB holds accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and is actively preparing to solicit accreditation from ABET, the recognized accrediting body for engineering programs. The Department of Mechatronics Engineering, in collaboration with the CSUMB Administration, is wholeheartedly dedicated to apply expeditiously for our engineering program.

To qualify for ABET accreditation, a developing program like ours must have at least one student who have successfully completed the curriculum. After applying for accreditation, ABET dispatches an evaluation team to assess various aspects, including the curriculum, facilities, infrastructure, and faculty quality. If the criteria are met, accreditation is granted, typically a year after the ABET visit.

Our graduates will be emerging fully qualified and well-prepared for engineering careers, licensure as professional engineers, and entry into graduate engineering programs. This procedural timeline aligns with the standard process followed by every program worldwide seeking ABET accreditation. Our proactive approach involves comprehensive preparations, including the establishment of new laboratories, procurement of cutting-edge equipment, recruitment of world-class faculty, and the development of courses tailored to future engineering challenges. We are diligently ensuring readiness to pursue ABET accreditation at the earliest opportunity.  

The objectives of the engineering program are to produce graduates who will achieve the following, 3-5 years after graduation:

  1. Succeed in an engineering profession through technical competence, effective communication, teamwork, and leadership.
  2. Maintain a lifelong interest in learning for personal and professional development.
  3. Practice engineering in a manner that is ethically responsible and consistent with regulatory, environmental, sustainability, and social concerns.

Reviewed by the Industry Advisory Board on January 23, 2025 and approved by the Department of Mechatronics Engineering in May 2025.

Bachelor of Science in Mechatronics Engineering Student Outcomes