Mechanical Engineering Technology

Associate in Applied Science
Career Degree
Cost
$13,004*

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

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Need help?

Your College & Career Navigator (CCN) helps you

  • complete the admission process
  • choose an academic program
  • enroll in first-semester classes
  • get access to helpful resources

Talk to a CCN

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.

Icon Key

  • 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 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 Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    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 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 Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    ENG 120

    ENG 120 Introduction to Professional & Technical Composition

    Class Description

    Introduction to Professional & Technical Composition is an introductory college level writing course for anyone interested in learning how to develop their professional writing skills for real world applications. Students will learn how to plan, draft, compose, and revise a variety of technical and professional documents common to the workplace. Writing clearly and succinctly for a defined target audience will be emphasized, as well as developing skills in document design and multimodal composition. Projects are based on practical situations within the student’s area of study.
         		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 Code ENG 120
      Course Title

      ENG 120 Introduction to Professional & Technical Composition

      Class Description

      Introduction to Professional & Technical Composition is an introductory college level writing course for anyone interested in learning how to develop their professional writing skills for real world applications. Students will learn how to plan, draft, compose, and revise a variety of technical and professional documents common to the workplace. Writing clearly and succinctly for a defined target audience will be emphasized, as well as developing skills in document design and multimodal composition. Projects are based on practical situations within the student’s area of study.
      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 Highlights

  • 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 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 Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    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 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 Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    HUM 127

    HUM 127 Critical Thinking

    Class Description

    Students will learn sound reasoning skills (i.e. informal logic) to improve the quality of their education, work, and life. These skills include recognizing, evaluating, and analyzing arguments; obtaining and interpreting data; arguing one’s positions with clarity and precision; problem-solving; and decision-making. Students will learn these skills through examples taken from different academic and professional areas, including the arts, politics, religion, science, business, and law.
         		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 Code HUM 127
      Course Title

      HUM 127 Critical Thinking

      Class Description

      Students will learn sound reasoning skills (i.e. informal logic) to improve the quality of their education, work, and life. These skills include recognizing, evaluating, and analyzing arguments; obtaining and interpreting data; arguing one’s positions with clarity and precision; problem-solving; and decision-making. Students will learn these skills through examples taken from different academic and professional areas, including the arts, politics, religion, science, business, and law.
      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
      Course Highlights

Total Credit Hours

62

*Cost is estimated based on recommended pathway credit hours. This includes in-district tuition and other fees, such as books and materials before financial aid is applied, as well as grants, loans or scholarships. There are many opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about Cost of Attendance.



Female student taking notes in class

Mechanical Engineering Technology at CLC

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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

  • Chad Holt, CLC student

    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

    Chad Holt, CLC student


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