Mechatronics: Career Associate

The Mechatronics: Career Associate program at Harrisburg Area Community College provides students with a comprehensive education in the interdisciplinary field of mechatronics, which combines mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, and automation technology. This program is designed to equip students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to design, develop, and maintain modern automated systems and robotics used across various industries. The curriculum integrates coursework in robotics, PLC programming, electronics, motor controls, computer-aided design (CAD), and manufacturing processes, offering a well-rounded training that prepares graduates for immediate employment in high-demand technical roles. Throughout the program, students have opportunities for hands-on experience through labs, projects, and internships, fostering the ability to troubleshoot and innovate within complex electromechanical systems. The Career Associate degree emphasizes both technical proficiency and problem-solving skills, preparing graduates for careers in manufacturing, automation, maintenance, and equipment repair industries. Students also learn how to operate and program automation equipment, work with control systems, and understand the principles of embedded systems. The program aligns with industry standards to ensure graduates are workforce-ready upon completion, with the knowledge to adapt to rapidly evolving technological advancements. By completing this program, students can pursue entry-level positions such as automation technician, maintenance technician, robotics technician, or control systems technician. The program also provides a solid foundation for students wishing to continue their education toward advanced degrees in engineering or technology fields. Harrisburg Area Community College’s Mechatronics: Career Associate program combines theoretical learning with practical application, fostering critical thinking and technical competence. It is ideal for students interested in a dynamic and growing field, offering excellent employment prospects and career advancement opportunities in the automation and manufacturing sectors.

General Education   
ENGL 101 English Composition I  3 
ENGL 104 Technical Writing (or)  3 
  ENGL 102 English Composition II  (3) 
COMM 203 Interpersonal Communication (or)  3 
  COMM 101 Effective Speaking  (3) 
Core A Elective  3 
Core B Elective  3 
Core C Elective  3 
Free Elective  3 
Physical Education & Wellness  1 

Major Requirements   
ELEC 144 Electronics for Technicians  3 
ELOC 153 Fundamentals of Electricity  4 
ELOC 172 National Electric Code (NEC)  2 
GTEC 101 Safety: OHSA-30 & NFPA 70E  3 
HVAC 103 Fundamentals of Air Cond. I  4 
IA 201 Motors and Controls I  4 
IA 208 PLC’s and Automation    2 
IA 210 Robotics I  3 
IA 221 Sensor Technology  3 
IMT 108 Power Transmission  4 
IMT 110 Fluid Power   4 
IMT 291 Industrial Maintenance Coop  3 

This curriculum is designed to prepare students to:

Perform maintenance on electronic, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic and industrial robots

Interpret OSHA Standards

Use hand tools, power tools, and test equipment

Demonstrate practical knowledge in electrical and electronic fundamentals, motor controls, and process control systems

Demonstrate practical knowledge in mechanical systems

Demonstrate practical knowledge in fluid power systems

Read electrical and mechanical blueprints

Troubleshoot and repair electromechanical equipment and systems

Use the National Electrical Code

Troubleshoot basic AC systems

Program, wire, and troubleshoot basic PLC systems

Effectively interact with and develop basic programs on industrial robots

Write and speak effectively

Appreciate accomplishments in the arts and sciences

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Apply for a Full-Ride Scholarship

Are you a future student and ready to apply to HACC? 
By applying to HACC, you have the opportunity to apply for a full-ride scholarship! HACC will fund two years of your education – enough to complete your associate degree.

Thanks to the support of the HACC Foundation, the College is able to offer FREE money to support future students, like you, in reaching your educational goals. Six full-ride scholarships are available – one from each of the five campuses and one through HACC’s Virtual Learning Program. 

Please note that current students are not eligible for the full-ride scholarships. However, there are more than 250 scholarships available for current students.

What should you know about the full-ride scholarship?

The scholarship covers tuition, books and fees for a full academic year. 

The scholarship will automatically renew each term for up to six consecutive terms if you maintain your eligibility.

Once you apply to the College and receive a HACC ID and email address, you may apply for the full-ride scholarship. You do not have to register for classes before applying for the scholarship.

Are you eligible?

To be eligible, you must:

Apply to HACC

Take 12-15 credits each term for no more than six consecutive terms (two years)

Live in Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry, Schuylkill or York county

Have a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 3.0

Provide a 480 SAT reading score, 21 ACT or comparable scores on the College’s placement test

Maintain a GPA of 3.0 while enrolled at HACC

Participate in at least two HACC student organizations

The Mechatronics: Career Associate program at Harrisburg Area Community College is designed to prepare students for a career in the rapidly growing field of mechatronics, which integrates mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science to design, build, and maintain automated systems and robotics. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring students are well-equipped for various roles in manufacturing, automation, and technical support sectors. Students enrolled in this program gain hands-on experience through laboratories, shop work, and real-world projects that simulate industry scenarios. The coursework covers topics such as robotics, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), electrical circuits, mechanical systems, sensors, and control systems, helping students develop problem-solving skills and technical competencies vital for modern industry demands. The associate degree typically takes about two years to complete, requiring a combination of general education and specialized technical classes. Graduates of the program are prepared for entry-level positions such as automation technicians, maintenance technicians, manufacturing technicians, and quality control specialists. The program also provides a pathway for further education, enabling students to transfer credits toward a bachelor’s degree in engineering or related fields. Harrisburg Area Community College supports students with modern facilities equipped with current technology and industry-standard tools, fostering an environment for experiential learning. The program emphasizes industry certifications and collaborations with local employers, aiming to improve employability and career advancement opportunities for graduates. The Mechatronics program is ideal for individuals interested in technology and automation, offering a pathway into a dynamic and expanding field with high employment prospects.