Mechanical Engineering Technology A.A.S. - Career Degree

Mechanical design engineering

Design and develop products and automation equipment

Prepare for an exciting career as a mechanical engineering technician with this two-year degree from College of Lake County. In this role, you stand at the forefront of innovation, helping to design products such as robots, off-road vehicles and animatronics. You work with mechanical engineers in factory or research settings, improving processes and making life and work easier.

What can you do with an A.A.S. in Mechanical Engineering Technology?

The Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology prepares you to start work as an application engineer, test engineer, mechanical design engineer, field service engineer, manufacturing engineer or product engineer. You can also continue your studies toward a 4-year mechanical engineering technology degree or other related engineering degree.

Highlights

WIOA Program

Eligible for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)-awarded vouchers.
Financial Aid/Scholarships Available

Based on need and/or achievement. Explore ways to pay for college.
Career Degree

Earn an associate degree in 2 years and gain in-demand technical and job-ready skills.
Program Length: 2 Years

Full-time students finish in 2 years.

Career Outlook

Operate, test, maintain, or adjust unmanned, automated, servomechanical, or electromechanical equipment. May operate unmanned submarines, aircraft, or other equipment to observe or record visual information at sites such as oil rigs, crop fields, buildings, or for similar infrastructure, deep ocean exploration, or hazardous waste removal. May assist engineers in testing and designing robotics equipment.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $72,680
  
  Median
  
  $125,725
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $135,766
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $34.94
  
  Median
  
  $60.44
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $65.27
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  10.83%
  
  Certificate
  
  31.72%
  
  Some college
  
  7.33%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  29.83%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  10.97%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  5.59%
  
  Doctorate
  
  3.72%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Apply engineering theory and principles to problems of industrial layout or manufacturing production, usually under the direction of engineering staff. May perform time and motion studies on worker operations in a variety of industries for purposes such as establishing standard production rates or improving efficiency.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $45,347
  
  Median
  
  $61,411
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $97,729
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $21.80
  
  Median
  
  $29.52
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $46.98
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  21.64%
  
  Certificate
  
  1.25%
  
  Some college
  
  36.92%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  25.54%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  14.65%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Repair, install, adjust, or maintain industrial production and processing machinery or refinery and pipeline distribution systems. May also install, dismantle, or move machinery and heavy equipment according to plans.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $42,850
  
  Median
  
  $64,717
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $85,522
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $20.60
  
  Median
  
  $31.11
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $41.11
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  39.09%
  
  Certificate
  
  47.22%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  13.7%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Inspect, test, sort, sample, or weigh nonagricultural raw materials or processed, machined, fabricated, or assembled parts or products for defects, wear, and deviations from specifications. May use precision measuring instruments and complex test equipment.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $31,543
  
  Median
  
  $43,150
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $72,371
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $15.16
  
  Median
  
  $20.74
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $34.79
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  69.81%
  
  Certificate
  
  26.89%
  
  Some college
  
  2.64%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  0.66%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Prepare detailed working diagrams of machinery and mechanical devices, including dimensions, fastening methods, and other engineering information.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $36,590
  
  Median
  
  $66,978
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $106,999
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $17.58
  
  Median
  
  $32.20
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $51.44
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  Certificate
  
  7.98%
  
  Some college
  
  7.45%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  61.28%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  20.25%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  2.93%
  
  Doctorate
  
  0.13%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Apply theory and principles of mechanical engineering to modify, develop, test, or adjust machinery and equipment under direction of engineering staff or physical scientists.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $46,396
  
  Median
  
  $70,805
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $98,617
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $22.30
  
  Median
  
  $34.03
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $47.41
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  7.8%
  
  Certificate
  
  32.84%
  
  Some college
  
  8.76%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  14.09%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  36.52%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).

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Recommended Pathway

This pathway serves as a guide for students to complete the degree or certificate assuming full-time enrollment (registered in 12 or more credit hours per semester) with Semester 1 typically representing a Fall term. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their College and Career Navigator (CCN) to identify coursework that will meet degree requirements based on individual academic goals. For a more inclusive list of course options, see the college catalog.

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Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Global citizenship
Online/Virtual options available

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
CLC 120	CLC 120 College Success Seminar Class Description This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.	2

Course Highlights
Course Code	CLC 120
Course Title	CLC 120 College Success Seminar Class Description This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
Credits	2

Course Code	Course Title	Credits
ARM 151	ARM 151 Mechanical Systems I Class Description This course covers basic safety protocol, the role of mechanical components in complex mechatronic systems, the flow of energy in a mechatronic system, calculation of force, accelerations, speed, torque, etc. and basic maintenance and systems-level troubleshooting.	3
ARM 156	ARM 156 Electrical Systems I Class Description This course will cover the basic electrical components in a mechatronic system. Topics covered will include electrical safety; current, voltage, resistance and power in AC and DC circuits; principles of resistance, inductance, capacitance, impedance, frequency, magnetism and transformers; basic function of AC/DC power supplies; operation of multimeters, oscilloscopes, frequency counters, wiggys, logic probes and amp clamps.	3
ARM 171	ARM 171 Automation I Class Description This course will cover electrical safety, fundamentals of DC motor operations, starting methods for DC motors, speed control, and troubleshooting DC motors, introduction to Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and PLC terminology, hardware components and general classification of PLCs.	3
EGR 121	EGR 121 Engineering Design Graphics Class Description This is an introductory course in the Engineering Transfer and Engineering Technology curriculum. The course emphasizes the use of graphical communication for engineers, designers and drafters to communicate technical ideas in the context of the engineering design process used in industry. Topics include technical sketching, multiview and pictorial drawings, section views, auxiliary views, dimensioning and tolerancing, detailed part drawings, assembly drawings, the design process, and 3D parametric solid modeling. A design project is incorporated, emphasizing functional analysis, with creation of functional prototypes is included. NOTE: Previous experience in 3D solid modeling software is recommended but not required for this course.	3
PMT 114	PMT 114 Machining Processes I Class Description This course is an introduction to machining and machine shop practices. Topics will include hand tools, measurement, cut off machines, drilling machines, benchwork, turning machines, milling machines, grinding machines and general safety. The content of this course will provide students with an understanding of the fundamentals of the manual and CNC machining processes. Students will also engage in instructional activities to prepare them for obtaining their Job Planning, Bench work & Layout credential and their Measurement, Materials, and Safety credential from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS).	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	ARM 151
Course Title	ARM 151 Mechanical Systems I Class Description This course covers basic safety protocol, the role of mechanical components in complex mechatronic systems, the flow of energy in a mechatronic system, calculation of force, accelerations, speed, torque, etc. and basic maintenance and systems-level troubleshooting.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	ARM 156
Course Title	ARM 156 Electrical Systems I Class Description This course will cover the basic electrical components in a mechatronic system. Topics covered will include electrical safety; current, voltage, resistance and power in AC and DC circuits; principles of resistance, inductance, capacitance, impedance, frequency, magnetism and transformers; basic function of AC/DC power supplies; operation of multimeters, oscilloscopes, frequency counters, wiggys, logic probes and amp clamps.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	ARM 171
Course Title	ARM 171 Automation I Class Description This course will cover electrical safety, fundamentals of DC motor operations, starting methods for DC motors, speed control, and troubleshooting DC motors, introduction to Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and PLC terminology, hardware components and general classification of PLCs.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	EGR 121
Course Title	EGR 121 Engineering Design Graphics Class Description This is an introductory course in the Engineering Transfer and Engineering Technology curriculum. The course emphasizes the use of graphical communication for engineers, designers and drafters to communicate technical ideas in the context of the engineering design process used in industry. Topics include technical sketching, multiview and pictorial drawings, section views, auxiliary views, dimensioning and tolerancing, detailed part drawings, assembly drawings, the design process, and 3D parametric solid modeling. A design project is incorporated, emphasizing functional analysis, with creation of functional prototypes is included. NOTE: Previous experience in 3D solid modeling software is recommended but not required for this course.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	PMT 114
Course Title	PMT 114 Machining Processes I Class Description This course is an introduction to machining and machine shop practices. Topics will include hand tools, measurement, cut off machines, drilling machines, benchwork, turning machines, milling machines, grinding machines and general safety. The content of this course will provide students with an understanding of the fundamentals of the manual and CNC machining processes. Students will also engage in instructional activities to prepare them for obtaining their Job Planning, Bench work & Layout credential and their Measurement, Materials, and Safety credential from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS).
Credits	3

Course Code	Course Title	Credits
ENG 120	ENG 120 Technical Composition I Class Description A beginning college level writing course. Emphasis is on writing with conciseness, precision and objectivity. Specifically covered are business letters, memoranda, periodic reports, descriptions of mechanisms and processes, instructions and proposals. A variety of business and technical communication projects are completed, all based on practical situations in the students' fields of study. Graphic elements/unit on publishing technology.	3
ARM 155	ARM 155 STEM Workplace Professional Skills Class Description This course introduces students to principles of professional behavior in the industrial workplace. It covers the individual attitude and behavioral skills that are important to a person's success in an industrial environment. Students are typically enrolled in STEM technical career areas such as mechatronics, environmental technology, machine tool trades and other similar career areas.	1
ARM 191	ARM 191 Pneumatics and Hydraulics I Class Description This course will cover basic safety rules and standards when working with mechatronic systems, introduction to fluid power, basic principles of hydraulics, fluid power components, hydraulic fluids and basic principles of pneumatics.	3
MTH 117	MTH 117 Technical Mathematics I Class Description This course covers college mathematics for students majoring in technology. It includes algebra, geometry and trigonometry. NOTE: A specific graphing calculator is required for this course. Contact the EMPS division office for details.	3
PHY 121	PHY 121 General Physics I Class Description This it the first course in a two semester sequence designed for students in arts and sciences. Basic concepts of mechanics, waves and sound are developed through lectures, demonstrations and laboratory experience. Basic knowledge of algebra and geometry assumed.	5

Course Highlights
Course Code	ENG 120
Course Title	ENG 120 Technical Composition I Class Description A beginning college level writing course. Emphasis is on writing with conciseness, precision and objectivity. Specifically covered are business letters, memoranda, periodic reports, descriptions of mechanisms and processes, instructions and proposals. A variety of business and technical communication projects are completed, all based on practical situations in the students' fields of study. Graphic elements/unit on publishing technology.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	ARM 155
Course Title	ARM 155 STEM Workplace Professional Skills Class Description This course introduces students to principles of professional behavior in the industrial workplace. It covers the individual attitude and behavioral skills that are important to a person's success in an industrial environment. Students are typically enrolled in STEM technical career areas such as mechatronics, environmental technology, machine tool trades and other similar career areas.
Credits	1

Course Highlights
Course Code	ARM 191
Course Title	ARM 191 Pneumatics and Hydraulics I Class Description This course will cover basic safety rules and standards when working with mechatronic systems, introduction to fluid power, basic principles of hydraulics, fluid power components, hydraulic fluids and basic principles of pneumatics.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	MTH 117
Course Title	MTH 117 Technical Mathematics I Class Description This course covers college mathematics for students majoring in technology. It includes algebra, geometry and trigonometry. NOTE: A specific graphing calculator is required for this course. Contact the EMPS division office for details.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	PHY 121
Course Title	PHY 121 General Physics I Class Description This it the first course in a two semester sequence designed for students in arts and sciences. Basic concepts of mechanics, waves and sound are developed through lectures, demonstrations and laboratory experience. Basic knowledge of algebra and geometry assumed.
Credits	5

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
MET 214	MET 214 Mechanical Design and Drafting Class Description This course introduces students to the design and graphic representation of basic machine parts such as gears, cams, castings, stampings, the redesign of simple mechanisms, piping drawing, and welding representations.	3
CMM 111	CMM 111 Communication Skills Class Description For students in career programs or individuals interested in improving communication skills. Acquaints students with a variety of interpersonal communication concepts and theories designed to improve communication competence. The focus is on interpersonal communication but intrapersonal communication is also addressed. Topics include the communication process and factors influencing it, cultural influences, verbal and non-verbal messages, relational maintenance, and productive conflict strategies.	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	MET 214
Course Title	MET 214 Mechanical Design and Drafting Class Description This course introduces students to the design and graphic representation of basic machine parts such as gears, cams, castings, stampings, the redesign of simple mechanisms, piping drawing, and welding representations.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	CMM 111
Course Title	CMM 111 Communication Skills Class Description For students in career programs or individuals interested in improving communication skills. Acquaints students with a variety of interpersonal communication concepts and theories designed to improve communication competence. The focus is on interpersonal communication but intrapersonal communication is also addressed. Topics include the communication process and factors influencing it, cultural influences, verbal and non-verbal messages, relational maintenance, and productive conflict strategies.
Credits	3

Course Code	Course Title	Credits
ARM 242	ARM 242 Reverse Engineering of Mechanical Systems Class Description This course is a study of the design of mechanical components in complex mechatronics systems. It covers an overview of statics, dynamics, and design of machine elements. Topics include force system analysis; study of equilibrium, translation, and rotation; friction; and stress, strain, and wear analysis. It also covers reverse engineering and the design of machine elements in mechanical systems.	3
MET 111	MET 111 Manufacturing Processes Class Description This course introduces students to the processes, production procedures and materials used in manufacturing. Casting, machining, forging, rolling, treatment and production of engineering materials is also studied.	3
MET 212	MET 212 Mechanisms Class Description This course introduces students to the study of motion, velocity, and acceleration as they pertain to the design of gears, linkages, and other mechanical assemblies which transmit or convert motion.	4
SOC 121	SOC 121 Introduction to Sociology Class Description This course introduces the basic concepts and perspectives for understanding sociology. The course examines how society influences and shapes human behavior. Topics of analysis include, but are not limited to, the development of sociology, theoretical perspectives and research methodologies, culture, social institutions, social change, and social inequality on the basis of class, gender, race and ethnicity, and sexuality.	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	ARM 242
Course Title	ARM 242 Reverse Engineering of Mechanical Systems Class Description This course is a study of the design of mechanical components in complex mechatronics systems. It covers an overview of statics, dynamics, and design of machine elements. Topics include force system analysis; study of equilibrium, translation, and rotation; friction; and stress, strain, and wear analysis. It also covers reverse engineering and the design of machine elements in mechanical systems.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	MET 111
Course Title	MET 111 Manufacturing Processes Class Description This course introduces students to the processes, production procedures and materials used in manufacturing. Casting, machining, forging, rolling, treatment and production of engineering materials is also studied.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	MET 212
Course Title	MET 212 Mechanisms Class Description This course introduces students to the study of motion, velocity, and acceleration as they pertain to the design of gears, linkages, and other mechanical assemblies which transmit or convert motion.
Credits	4

Course Highlights
Course Code	SOC 121
Course Title	SOC 121 Introduction to Sociology Class Description This course introduces the basic concepts and perspectives for understanding sociology. The course examines how society influences and shapes human behavior. Topics of analysis include, but are not limited to, the development of sociology, theoretical perspectives and research methodologies, culture, social institutions, social change, and social inequality on the basis of class, gender, race and ethnicity, and sexuality.
Credits	3

Course Code	Course Title	Credits
HUM 127	HUM 127 Critical Thinking Class Description This course is an introduction to critical thinking skills (i.e., informal logic), including the following: problem solving, diagramming and evaluating arguments, constructing sound reasoning skills and habits, detecting fallacies, and reasoning from a variety of disciplines such as science, business, law, and the arts.	3
MET 215	MET 215 Machine Design Class Description This is a capstone course that covers the application of empirical and analytical techniques used in the design of mechanical components. Combined states of stress using Mohr's Circle, design criteria (including maximum shear stress, Mises-Hencky strain energy, and fatigue) and the design and analysis of mechanical elements (including clutches, brakes, belts, chains, bearings, fasteners, gearing, springs and cams) are developed.	5
MET 216	MET 216 Applied Finite Element Analysis Class Description This course is designed to explain how to apply finite element analysis to real-world problems. Students will be introduced to finite element analysis software and will learn the proper techniques of how it is used to test engineering designs for failure modes in the virtual environment.	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	HUM 127
Course Title	HUM 127 Critical Thinking Class Description This course is an introduction to critical thinking skills (i.e., informal logic), including the following: problem solving, diagramming and evaluating arguments, constructing sound reasoning skills and habits, detecting fallacies, and reasoning from a variety of disciplines such as science, business, law, and the arts.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	MET 215
Course Title	MET 215 Machine Design Class Description This is a capstone course that covers the application of empirical and analytical techniques used in the design of mechanical components. Combined states of stress using Mohr's Circle, design criteria (including maximum shear stress, Mises-Hencky strain energy, and fatigue) and the design and analysis of mechanical elements (including clutches, brakes, belts, chains, bearings, fasteners, gearing, springs and cams) are developed.
Credits	5

Course Highlights
Course Code	MET 216
Course Title	MET 216 Applied Finite Element Analysis Class Description This course is designed to explain how to apply finite element analysis to real-world problems. Students will be introduced to finite element analysis software and will learn the proper techniques of how it is used to test engineering designs for failure modes in the virtual environment.
Credits	3

Total Credit Hours

62

Mechanical Engineering Technology at CLC

Get the bigger picture

This degree is just one possible way to study Mechanical Engineering Technology. Get the bigger picture—degrees, credentials and extra options.

View the Mechanical Engineering Technology program overview

Frequently asked questions

In this program, you learn to:
- design mechanical components and machines
- analyze mechanical engineering problems
- create prototypes
- build 3D models
- utilize computer simulations such as motion studies and finite element analysis
You learn through classroom lectures followed by hands-on lab opportunities. In addition to reverse engineering technology, you design new machines through CAD programs. Your learning will include working in design teams.
You benefit from an excellent education at an affordable price combined with generous financial aid opportunities. Enjoy small class sizes while building meaningful relationships with your classmates and instructors. You have access to a variety of campus resources—like career services, counseling, fitness facilities and more.
Online learning is available for a few mechanical engineering technology classes. Due to the nature of the mechanical engineering technology program, we do a lot of hands-on learning, which must be done in person.
Most general education classes, which are required for the A.A.S. degree, have various meeting options such as:
- Virtual Live: Learn remotely in real time. Take classes taught live via Zoom.
- Online: Have the flexibility to complete course work without scheduled meetings while staying actively engaged in a fully online environment.
- In-person: Keep your degree on track with classes that meet face-to-face, providing you with opportunities to interact in-person with faculty and peers.

Chad Holt
Adult Learner
"I have a lot of technical skills, but I didn't have the formal education side. I've connected a lot of dots (in this program), and it's really helped me to polish and hone my skills."
Chad is a full-time employee striving to earn two (2) associate degrees in automation, robotics and mechatronics and mechanical engineering technology. His goal is to upskill and get ahead of tech advancements in his field.
Read Chad's story

*Cost includes tuition and other fees, including books and materials before financial aid is applied, such as grants, loans or scholarships. There are many opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about Cost of Attendance.

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Mechanical Engineering Technology

Mechanical design engineering

Design and develop products and automation equipment

What can you do with an A.A.S. in Mechanical Engineering Technology?

Highlights

WIOA Program

Financial Aid/Scholarships Available

Career Degree

Program Length: 2 Years

Career Outlook

Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Industrial Machinery Mechanics

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Mechanical Drafters

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

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Recommended Pathway

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Semester 1 2 Credits

Semester 2 15 Credits

Semester 3 15 Credits

Semester 4 6 Credits

Semester 5 13 Credits

Semester 6 11 Credits

Total Credit Hours

Mechanical Engineering Technology at CLC

Get the bigger picture

Frequently asked questions

What will I learn?

How will I learn?

Why should I get my MET degree at CLC?

Can I take my classes online?

Chad Holt

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