BS in Mechanical Engineering: Robotics Emphasis

BS in Mechanical Engineering: Robotics Emphasis
journey today.
The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering with an Emphasis in Robotics degree from Grand Canyon University utilizes guidance from today’s industries to offer foundational knowledge and skills in mechanic and robotic engineering-related fields. These include mechanical design engineering, systems engineering, manufacturing engineering, project engineering and engineering sales.
Robotics is a field that combines a base in mechanical engineering with automation, feedback and control systems. In this program, you will explore various aspects of robotics, from computer vision and automation to the design of complex control systems. The overall goal is to develop critical thinking skills and other industry-applicable skills, empowering you to use the newest technology in ways that are productive and helpful to society.
Pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering: robotics emphasis allows you to do more than examine robots. You’ll build them, interact with them and explore robotics theory, design and function in relation to today’s rapid advancements in technology and our commitment to innovation.

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Option
In addition to the BSME: robotics emphasis, you may wish to consider an alternative mechanical engineering emphasis, such as:
Project-based learning is at the heart of a GCU education. Offered by the College of Engineering and Technology, the BS in Mechanical Engineering: robotics emphasis is intended to provide an academically stimulating journey that delves deeper than classroom instruction alone can — it gives you hands-on education that allows you to apply theory and experience directly to a career in the engineering industry.
Working closely with faculty and peers, you will practice meeting the challenges of solving various problems while exploring the ethical implications of robots in human society. You’ll examine the core disciplines of computer science, electrical and computer engineering and mechanical engineering to control robots’ behavior while being prompted to deepen your understanding of their use in the modern world.

Mechanical engineers develop complex systems by visualizing a model and designing, testing, manufacturing, distributing and operating it. You will be expected to graduate with a strong foundation in robotic mechanism design, analysis and integration.
Integrating science with programming can prepare you to pursue robotics in many areas, including manufacturing, biomedicine and design. In earning this degree, you will examine, evaluate and challenge ideas across a wide range of cross-disciplinary fields.
The relationship between math, science and computer programming in this degree is demonstrated in the following ways:
The relationship between energy and motion
Insulators vs. conductors
Magnetism in physics
Energy transformation in electric circuits
Magnetism and electricity
The economic impact of engineering solutions
Develop Skills for the Future of Robotics
Graduates of this STEM degree program are expected to be critical, innovative thinkers working toward advancements that can improve the world around them.
As you work through this degree program, you will take a range of courses in mathematics, physical sciences and engineering, including differential equations, chemistry and thermodynamics.
In addition, robotics emphasis courses will teach you theoretical knowledge in the following areas:
This program includes two capstone projects, for which you will develop a project proposal, conduct research, collaborate with team members, conduct a feasibility study and work with a mentor to refine your project.
You will be expected to establish an experimental basis for your theoretical reasoning. You’ll be guided to solve problems using scientific computing tools, theory, simulations and various programming languages.
Throughout your academic journey at GCU, you will have access to our wide range of STEM resources, including the fully equipped Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML) and Robotics Lab, as well as the Research and Design Program (RDP), which offers opportunities to engage in faculty research, design and development projects.
You will navigate a comprehensive curriculum designed to help you prepare for the innovative mechanical engineering industry. On campus, you will be surrounded by a supportive group of like-minded learners and qualified educators.
This program teaches and assesses competency in the application of engineering principles, including the following areas:
BSME: robotics emphasis graduates may go on to become innovative individuals who seek to use their skills ethically in a servant leadership role.
Mechanical engineers with a strong foundation in robotics may work in a wide range of industries and potentially pursue the following careers:
If you enjoy figuring out solutions to problems, a mechanical engineering degree with an emphasis in robotics may allow you to construct logical, cohesive and persuasive arguments related to various engineering problems within engineering and related fields. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), mechanical engineers have a median annual wage of $99,510 as of May 2023.1
Graduates who can collaborate effectively with others, adapt to various leadership styles and consider the consequences of their decisions while supporting others may be well-prepared for the mechanical and robotics engineering field.2
GCU has held continuous institutional accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968. The College of Engineering and Technology shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies.

Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to your most frequently asked questions regarding the mechanical engineering degree with a robotics emphasis, including specific skills necessary to become an engineer with experience in robotics.
With the rapid progression of artificial intelligence, data science and software technology, pursuing a BS in Mechanical Engineering: robotics degree could be an ideal choice for anyone who is interested in working at the forefront of technological innovation. As manufacturing processes incorporate increasingly complex automation machinery, robotic engineering may be a great option for those who enjoy math, science, planning, programming and maintenance.
Mechanical engineering robotic systems are often used within the manufacturing industry in areas such as assembly, packaging, logistics, machining, quality control and mass production.3 Robots are also now being used to perform surgery in certain medical scenarios.4 Mechanical engineers may enjoy using their skills to improve the world around them by designing and building robots that help people do their jobs more effectively.
Other than pursuing a degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering or computer science, an aspiring robotics engineer may enhance their knowledge by building skills in areas such as computer programming, mathematics (including statistics), material science and automation principles.5 Gaining knowledge in these areas can help establish a foundation for pursuing your fascination of all things robotic.
Most firms require completion of a bachelor's degree in robotics-related disciplines, such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering or computer science.2 In addition, internships and other hands-on experiences are beneficial when searching for a career in mechanical engineering robotics. You may also wish to join related professional associations, which may provide opportunities for continuing professional development and networking.5

Innovate in Robotics Systems
Prepare for a forward-looking career in mechanical engineering and robotics.
1 The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (“BLS”), Mechanical Engineers as of May 2023, retrieved Nov. 21, 2024. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as mechanical engineers nor does it reflect earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc., against a pool of candidates.
2 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, Aug. 29). How To Become a Mechanical Engineer. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Nov. 21, 2024.
3 HowToRobot. (2024, Aug. 22). Top 12 Industrial Robot Applications and Uses. Retrieved Nov. 14, 2024.
4 Mayo Clinic. (2024, April 13). Robotic Surgery. Retrieved Nov. 14, 2024.
5 Lombardi, P. (2024, April 18). How To Become a Robotics Engineer (With Skills and Careers). Indeed. Retrieved Nov. 14, 2024.