The Mechatronics Career Studies Certificate (CSC) prepares students for fast-growing technical careers operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting automated electro-mechanical systems. By integrating basic mechanical principles with electrical wiring, fluid power (hydraulics and pneumatics), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and industrial robotics, this hands-on certificate equips technicians with multidisciplinary expertise for smart manufacturing and modern industrial automation environments.
Program at a Glance
| Program Aspect | Details |
| Award Earned | Career Studies Certificate (CSC) |
| Program Major | Mechatronics |
| Core Focus | Mechanical, Electrical, PLC Controls, Fluid Power & Robotics Systems |
| Funding Eligibility | G3 Eligible (Tuition assistance for eligible Virginia residents) |
| Stackable Pathway | Credits stack directly into MGCC's Electrical & Instrumentation Technology AAS |
| Program Head | Bryan Smith — bsmith@mgcc.edu | (540) 863-2893 |
💰 G3 Program Eligible — Low or No-Cost Tuition
This program qualifies for Virginia’s G3 Financial Assistance Program (Get a Skill, Get a Job, Get Ahead). G3 provides tuition support and financial assistance for eligible Virginia residents enrolling in high-demand technical and advanced manufacturing programs. Contact Student Services or Financial Aid to verify your eligibility.
What You Will Learn
This career-focused certificate provides hands-on technical training across core mechatronic domains:
- Electro-Mechanical Systems: Build, test, and maintain integrated electrical and mechanical components used in automated machinery.
- Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs): Program, interface, and troubleshoot PLCs and digital control loops.
- Fluid Power (Hydraulics & Pneumatics): Analyze, repair, and control fluid-powered actuators, valves, and pressure systems.
- Sensors, Actuators & Industrial Robotics: Configure smart sensors, electromechanical actuators, and robotic arm positioning systems in automated production lines.
Career & Academic Pathways
Mechatronics technicians possess versatile, multi-skilled training valued across automated manufacturing, logistics, and processing industries.
Potential Career Pathways:
- Mechatronics Technician
- Automated Systems Technician
- Robotics & Controls Maintenance Assistant
- Industrial Electro-Mechanical Technician
- Automated Assembly Line Specialist
Stackable Degree Pathway:
Every credit hour earned in this certificate applies directly toward MGCC's two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Electrical and Instrumentation Technology (E&I).
Curriculum & Course Plan
This concise certificate integrates applied laboratory exercises with foundational mechatronic theory for rapid job placement.
👉 View the Complete Mechatronics CSC Course Sequence in the Catalog
Program Contact & Admissions
Ready to launch a high-tech career in robotics and automated systems? Contact our Program Head or Student Services:
Bryan Smith — Program Head, Electrical & Instrumentation Technology
Email: bsmith@mgcc.edu
Office Location: Warren Hall, Clifton Forge Campus
MGCC Student Services Suite
Phone: (540) 863-2820 | Email: admissions@mgcc.edu
Location: Backels Hall, First Floor (Clifton Forge Campus)