Most Affordable Mechatronics Certificate Programs (2026)

TL;DR

Key takeaways

55 programs ranked by lowest tuition first. Lowest annual tuition in this list: $1,000. Total methodology score still displayed for transparency, but ordering is by cost.
BLS median pay: $70,760 for Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians (SOC 17-3024), per May 2024 OEWS release. Entry pay typically $32K-$45K for certificate-only candidates entering production-technician or maintenance-trainee roles.
Top career landing roles: Mechatronics Technician, Automation Technician, Robotics Technician. All BLS-tracked with current wage data.
Pair with credentials: MSSC CPT-MT, MSSC CPT (full), Siemens SMSCP are the highest-leverage industry credentials to add to this certificate.
8 funding sources available — most candidates do not pay out of pocket. Apply for funding before enrolling.

The rankings

1

Dallas College · Dallas, TX

Mechatronics Technology Occupational Skills Award

Shortest entry credential in Dallas College's mechatronics ladder. The Occupational Skills Award is designed for incumbent workers seeking a stackable mechatronics credential without committing to the full certificate or AAS. Completion in 4-6 months full-time.

Tuition: $1,000/yr

Length: 6 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: SACSCOC

Visit program page

Overall

67

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2

Clovis Community College · Fresno, CA

Certificate in Mechatronics/Industrial Automation

Clovis Community College's certificate-level Mechatronics credential, the entry point to the broader six-credential pathway. 12-month timeline gets students employable quickly, with credits stacking directly into the AS for continued education. Allen-Bradley/Rockwell-equipped mini-factory lab provides hands-on industrial experience.

Tuition: $1,380/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: ACCJC

Industry partners: Allen-Bradley, Rockwell Automation

Vendor partner: rockwell
Visit program page

Overall

65

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3

Cuyamaca College · El Cajon, CA

Mechatronics Certificate of Achievement

Cuyamaca College's Mechatronics Certificate of Achievement is unusually housed in the Computer Science department (most mechatronics programs sit in industrial tech or engineering). Positioned for students designing automatic electromechanical devices in advanced manufacturing across the San Diego corridor.

Tuition: $1,380/yr

Length: 15 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: ACCJC

Visit program page

Overall

62

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4

San Joaquin Delta College · Stockton, CA

Certificate of Achievement: Automation Technician - Mechatronics

Shorter certificate of achievement at San Joaquin Delta College that stacks into the Automation Technology - Mechatronics AS. 12-18 month timeline for fast entry into Central Valley manufacturing.

Tuition: $1,380/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: ACCJC

Visit program page

Overall

62

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5

Dallas College · Dallas, TX

Mechatronics Technology Certificate

Dallas College's Mechatronics Technology Certificate is a Level 1 credential designed as a fast-track entry point for the Eastfield/Mountain View industrial corridor. Courses stack directly into the Electro Mechanical Technology AAS for students who want to continue. TSI-waived entry removes the standardized testing barrier for incumbent workers.

Tuition: $1,500/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: SACSCOC

Visit program page

Overall

67

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6

St. Philip's College · San Antonio, TX

Automated Industrial Process Mechatronics Level 1 Certificate

Entry-level credential at St. Philip's College that stacks directly into the Automated Industrial Process Mechatronics AAS. HSI institution with majority-Hispanic enrollment, addressing the South Texas workforce equity gap in advanced manufacturing.

Tuition: $1,500/yr

Length: 10 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: SACSCOC

Visit program page

Overall

67

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7

Truckee Meadows Community College · Reno, NV

Industrial Programming and Controls Skills Certificate

Truckee Meadows Community College's Industrial Programming and Controls Skills Certificate is a 3-6 month focused PLC programming credential. Useful for working maintenance technicians wanting incremental credentialing.

Tuition: $1,500/yr

Length: 6 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: NWCCU

Visit program page

Overall

67

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8

Western Nevada College · Carson City, NV

Mechatronics Foundation Skills Certificate

Western Nevada College's Mechatronics Foundation Skills Certificate is an 8-week fast-track credential to the SACA C-102 Certified Industry 4.0 Associate II certification. Shortest credential path in Nevada mechatronics education.

Tuition: $1,500/yr

Length: 2 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: NWCCU

Visit program page

Overall

67

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9

Chandler-Gilbert Community College · Chandler, AZ

CCL in Industrial Technology for Semiconductor

Chandler-Gilbert Community College's Certificate of Completion in Industrial Technology for Semiconductor (CCL 5260N) is built directly to Intel Chandler's Ocotillo Fab 52/62 equipment-technician needs. 16-18 credit certificate at Maricopa Community Colleges pricing. Direct hire pipeline into Intel.

Tuition: $1,700/yr

Length: 9 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Industry partners: Intel Chandler (Ocotillo Fab 52/62)
Visit program page

Overall

68

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10

Waukesha County Technical College · Pewaukee, WI

Mechatronics Technician Apprenticeship

Waukesha County Technical College's Mechatronics Technician is a registered apprenticeship with related instruction at WCTC's Terry Lutz Integrated Manufacturing Center. Apprentices can simultaneously work toward the Technical Studies - Journeyworker AAS by taking 1-2 extra classes per semester. Annual wage range during apprenticeship: $41,300-$63,600.

Tuition: $2,000/yr

Length: 48 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Apprenticeship: Wisconsin DWD Registered Apprenticeship
Visit program page

Overall

71

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11

South Texas College · McAllen, TX

Robotics and Mechatronics Technology Certificate

South Texas College's Robotics and Mechatronics Technology Certificate is part of the broader Advanced Manufacturing Technology pathway. Graduates earn FANUC Level 1 Robot Operator certification through the NOCTI exam. HSI institution serving the Rio Grande Valley, with GE-funded scholarships and FANUC partnership.

Tuition: $2,000/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: SACSCOC

Industry partners: GE, FANUC

Vendor partner: fanuc-cert
Visit program page

Overall

70

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12

Truckee Meadows Community College · Reno, NV

Fundamentals of Smart Automation Certificate

Truckee Meadows Community College's Fundamentals of Smart Automation Certificate is a shorter 6-9 month entry-level credential that stacks toward the Automation and Robotics AAS.

Tuition: $2,000/yr

Length: 9 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: NWCCU

Visit program page

Overall

67

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13

Central New Mexico Community College · Albuquerque, NM

Industrial Automation Technology (Mechatronics) Certificate

Central New Mexico Community College's Industrial Automation Technology (Mechatronics) Certificate includes 4 SACA certifications and 18 micro-credentials. Named industry partners include Intel Rio Rancho and General Mills. Housed in the new Ted Chavez Trades and Technologies Center on the Albuquerque main campus.

Tuition: $2,060/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Industry partners: Intel Rio Rancho, General Mills
Visit program page

Overall

69

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14

Central New Mexico Community College · Albuquerque, NM

Mechatronics (Manufacturing and Automated Systems) Certificate

Central New Mexico Community College's Mechatronics (Manufacturing and Automated Systems) Certificate follows the SACA gold credentialing path. Named partners include Intel Rio Rancho and Ski Santa Fe. The Mechatronics-titled credential at Albuquerque metro's primary community college.

Tuition: $2,060/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Industry partners: Intel Rio Rancho, Ski Santa Fe
Visit program page

Overall

69

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15

Motlow State Community College · Lynchburg, TN

Mechatronics Technical Certificate

Motlow State's mechatronics certificate is effectively free for Tennessee residents 25+ through the TN Reconnect program — one of the most affordable paths into US manufacturing technician work. The curriculum is built around the Nissan Smyrna supply chain, with strong placement at Nissan, Bridgestone, and the Calsonic Kansei / Marelli automotive cluster. Students earn credits that stack directly into Motlow's AAS in Mechatronics if they continue.

Tuition: $2,287/yr

Length: 9 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: SACSCOC

Industry partners: Nissan, Bridgestone

Apprenticeship: TN Reconnect
Visit program page

Overall

74

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16

Yavapai College · Prescott, AZ

Certificate in Automated Industrial Technology

Yavapai College's Certificate in Automated Industrial Technology is the northern-Arizona mechatronics credential. Prescott location with regional manufacturing placement. Smaller program but covers core mechatronics-technician skills.

Tuition: $2,400/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Visit program page

Overall

67

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17

Central Piedmont Community College · Charlotte, NC

Mechatronics Engineering Technology Certificate

Central Piedmont is a Siemens-authorized CERT partner — that means students complete the Siemens Mechatronic Systems Certification Program (SMSCP) Level 1 as part of the curriculum at no additional cost, walking out with both a CPCC credential and a Siemens-recognized industry certification. The program leverages Charlotte's dense manufacturing base: Siemens Charlotte energy operations, Honeywell, and dozens of automotive and aerospace tier-ones recruit graduates. NCCCS tuition makes the cost-per-credit among the lowest in the country.

Tuition: $2,432/yr

Length: 9 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: SACSCOC

Industry partners: Siemens Charlotte, Honeywell

Vendor partner: siemens-smscp
Visit program page

Overall

70

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18

Wake Technical Community College · Raleigh, NC

Mechatronics Engineering Technology Certificate

Wake Tech is a FANUC-authorized Certified Education Robot Training (CERT) partner, which means students earn the FANUC FCR-O1 (Operator Level 1) NOCTI certification as part of the curriculum — a credential recognized at automotive welding cells across the country. The certificate runs two semesters with strong hands-on lab time on actual FANUC robots, plus core PLC and electrical training. John Deere's Wake County facility, Eaton, and the broader Raleigh-area automation employer base are primary placement targets.

Tuition: $2,432/yr

Length: 9 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: SACSCOC

Industry partners: John Deere, Eaton

Vendor partner: fanuc-cert
Visit program page

Overall

70

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19

Alamance Community College · Graham, NC

Mechatronics Engineering Technology Certificate

Alamance Community College is part of the North Carolina Community College System, which has some of the most affordable per-credit tuition rates in the country. The two-semester mechatronics certificate covers PLCs, industrial electricity, mechanical drives, and pneumatics, with credits stacking directly into the AAS for students who continue. Honda Aero (the GE-Honda joint-venture aircraft engine plant in Burlington) and LabCorp's North Carolina operations are primary placement targets, plus the broader Piedmont Triad manufacturing base.

Tuition: $2,432/yr

Length: 8 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: SACSCOC

Industry partners: Honda Aero, LabCorp
Visit program page

Overall

69

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Spartanburg Community College · Spartanburg, SC

Mechatronics Technology Certificate

Two-semester certificate housed inside Spartanburg's broader Mechatronics Technology AAS, with all credits stacking forward if you continue. The program pulls heavily from the BMW Spartanburg supplier ecosystem — students rotate through BMW Scholars apprenticeship slots and the Apprenticeship Carolina earn-while-you-learn track. Lab equipment covers Allen-Bradley PLCs, FANUC robotics, and pneumatic-hydraulic trainers, with a focus on getting graduates into BMW, Michelin, or supplier maintenance roles within 90 days.

Tuition: $2,480/yr

Length: 8 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: SACSCOC

Industry partners: BMW, Michelin

Apprenticeship: BMW Scholars, Apprenticeship Carolina
Visit program page

Overall

74

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21

Lone Star College · Houston, TX

Mechanical Technician / Mechatronics Occupational Skills Award

Lone Star College's Mechanical Technician/Mechatronics Occupational Skills Award is a fast-track, non-credit credential (around $2,560 total) that prepares students for the MSSC Certified Production Technician (CPT) certification — making graduates immediately credentialed at the national-recognition level. The North Harris campus serves the Houston petrochemical corridor (ExxonMobil Baytown, Chevron Phillips, Bayport industrial district) with strong placement into instrumentation and controls (I&C) technician roles. Lone Star also offers longer credit certificates for students who want a more traditional path.

Tuition: $2,560/yr

Length: 6 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: SACSCOC

Industry partners: ExxonMobil, Chevron
Visit program page

Overall

69

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22

Front Range Community College · Longmont, CO

Robotics and Automation Technology Certificate

FRCC's Robotics and Automation Technology Certificate is a 6-12 month stackable credential that ladders into the FRCC Automation & Engineering Technology AAS. Built around PLCs, motor controls, robotics, and motion systems. Longmont CIM facility.

Tuition: $2,600/yr

Length: 9 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Visit program page

Overall

67

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23

Greenville Technical College · Greenville, SC

Mechatronics Technology Certificate

Greenville Tech's mechatronics certificate is the on-ramp into the Upstate South Carolina manufacturing corridor — BMW, GE Power, Bosch Rexroth, and dozens of tier-one suppliers all recruit directly from the program. The two-semester certificate covers industrial electricity, PLCs, pneumatics, and motor controls; students who continue stack credits into the AAS without losing time. Apprenticeship Carolina partnerships mean many students are working paid manufacturing jobs while completing the credential.

Tuition: $2,664/yr

Length: 9 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: SACSCOC

Industry partners: BMW, GE, Bosch Rexroth

Apprenticeship: Apprenticeship Carolina
Visit program page

Overall

75

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24

Metropolitan Community College · Omaha, NE

Industrial Automation/Mechatronics Level II PLC Certificate

Metropolitan Community College's Industrial Automation Mechatronics Level II PLC Certificate is a stackable credential targeting working maintenance technicians. Stacks into the MCC Engineering Technology AAS with Mechatronics Emphasis.

Tuition: $3,000/yr

Length: 9 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Visit program page

Overall

66

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25

Macomb Community College · Warren, MI

Automated Systems Technology — Mechatronics Certificate

Macomb Community College sits in the heart of Detroit's automotive manufacturing belt, with direct hiring pipelines into Stellantis (Sterling Stamping, Warren Truck), GM (Warren Tech Center), and Ford's Macomb-area operations. The program holds both FANUC CERT and Siemens SMSCP partner status, so students stack vendor-recognized credentials alongside the Macomb certificate. UAW-Auto apprenticeship slots are available for students entering through union-sponsored pathways. Lab equipment is current-generation and matches what students will see on the plant floor day one.

Tuition: $3,300/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Industry partners: Stellantis, GM, Ford

Apprenticeship: UAW-Auto Apprenticeship

Vendor partner: fanuc-cert, siemens-smscp
Visit program page

Overall

77

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26

Rowan College of South Jersey · Vineland, NJ

Mechatronics Bootcamp + Stackable Credentials (the MILL)

Rowan College of South Jersey's MILL (Manufacturing Innovation Learning Lab) on the Cumberland campus delivers mechatronics through a bootcamp + stackable credentials model. Equipped with FANUC robots, HAAS CNC, and PLC trainers. Built with USDOE Title III Hispanic-Serving Institution STEM grant funding. Direct articulation into Rowan University's BS in Engineering Technology.

Tuition: $3,500/yr

Length: 9 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: MSCHE

Industry partners: Rowan University Engineering Technology BS
Visit program page

Overall

67

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27

Metropolitan Community College · Omaha, NE

Automation/Mechatronics Level III PLC Certificate

Metropolitan Community College's Automation Mechatronics Level III PLC Certificate is the advanced PLC certification stacking from Level II. Targets working technicians wanting higher-tier automation credentialing.

Tuition: $3,500/yr

Length: 9 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Visit program page

Overall

66

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28

NHTI - Concord's Community College · Concord, NH

Automation Certificate

NHTI's Automation Certificate is a standalone 12-month credential from the same department running the ETAC-accredited Robotics and Automation Engineering Technology AS. Stacks toward the full AS for students who continue.

Tuition: $3,500/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Visit program page

Overall

66

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Manchester Community College · Manchester, NH

Mechatronics Certificate

Manchester Community College's Mechatronics Certificate is a 12-month standalone credential from the Automated Manufacturing Technology department. Stacks into the Mechatronics Strand AS for students who continue.

Tuition: $3,500/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Visit program page

Overall

66

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Manchester Community College · Manchester, NH

Robotics Certificate

Manchester Community College's Robotics Certificate is a 12-month standalone credential focused on industrial robotics. Stacks into the Robotics Strand of the Automated Manufacturing Technology AS.

Tuition: $3,500/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Visit program page

Overall

66

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31

Cincinnati State Technical and Community College · Cincinnati, OH

Mechatronics Technician Certificate (Workforce)

Cincinnati State's Workforce Development Center runs a stackable Mechatronics Technician certificate designed for fast entry-level placement. Students complete Industrial Electrical Technician, Robotics Technician, and Mechanical Technician modules, then a Mechatronics capstone. Designed with regional employers for fast workforce entry; credits also apply toward the credit-bearing AAS for students who want to continue.

Tuition: $3,500/yr

Length: 18 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Visit program page

Overall

66

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Linn-Benton Community College · Albany, OR

Mechatronics: Maintenance Career Pathway Certificate

Linn-Benton's Mechatronics: Maintenance Career Pathway Certificate is a 32-credit credential that stacks into the LBCC Mechatronics AAS. Shorter pathway for students who want to start working faster.

Tuition: $3,600/yr

Length: 9 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: NWCCU

Visit program page

Overall

66

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33

Tennessee College of Applied Technology — Shelbyville · Shelbyville, TN

Industrial Maintenance Automation Diploma

Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology operate on a diploma-and-certificate model rather than the AAS structure most community colleges use — students earn a credential in 16 months of focused full-time technical training, no general-education requirements. TCAT Shelbyville's program (officially titled "Industrial Maintenance Automation") covers industrial controls, hydraulics, PLCs, and automation systems with heavy lab-hours weighting. Strong placement into the Nissan Smyrna and Calsonic Kansei (now Marelli) supply chain, plus Tyson Foods' middle-Tennessee processing plants.

Tuition: $3,650/yr

Length: 16 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: SACSCOC

Industry partners: Nissan, Calsonic Kansei, Tyson Foods

Apprenticeship: TN Reconnect
Visit program page

Overall

74

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34

Tennessee College of Applied Technology — Pulaski · Pulaski, TN

Automation, Process and Production Systems

TCAT Pulaski sits in the middle of south-central Tennessee's manufacturing corridor, with Hankook Tire Tennessee, Snap-on Tools' Elizabethtown plant, and several automotive-supplier operations as the primary placement pipeline. The Automation, Process and Production Systems program is TCAT Pulaski's mechatronics equivalent — covering PLCs, robotics, controls, and the broader automated-systems skill set. TN Reconnect covers tuition for eligible Tennessee residents 25+, making this one of the more affordable paths into the trade.

Tuition: $3,650/yr

Length: 16 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: SACSCOC

Industry partners: Hankook Tire, Snap-on

Apprenticeship: TN Reconnect
Visit program page

Overall

73

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35

Western Nevada College · Carson City, NV

Mechatronics Technology Certificate

Western Nevada College's Mechatronics Technology Certificate is the 12-month standalone credential that stacks into the full Mechatronics and Electronics Technology AAS. Includes Siemens SMSCP-aligned coursework.

Tuition: $3,690/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: NWCCU

Vendor partner: siemens-smscp
Visit program page

Overall

67

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Owens Community College · Perrysburg, OH

Dana Mechatronics Engineering Certificate

Owens Community College's Dana Mechatronics Engineering Certificate is an industry-named credential developed in partnership with Dana Incorporated (the global automotive driveshaft and powertrain manufacturer headquartered in Maumee, OH). The certificate sits inside an NSF-funded mechatronics pipeline that runs from Toledo Public Schools through Owens and into the University of Toledo, giving students a clear technician-to-engineer pathway.

Tuition: $4,000/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Industry partners: Dana Incorporated, University of Toledo
Visit program page

Overall

68

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37

Truckee Meadows Community College · Reno, NV

Advanced Manufacturing and Automation Certificate

Truckee Meadows Community College's Advanced Manufacturing and Automation Certificate stacks into the TMCC Automation and Robotics AAS. Targets Tesla Gigafactory and Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center hiring.

Tuition: $4,000/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: NWCCU

Industry partners: Tesla Gigafactory Nevada
Visit program page

Overall

67

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Owens Community College · Perrysburg, OH

Dana Mechatronics Controls Certificate

PLC and controls-focused sister certificate to Owens' Dana Mechatronics Engineering certificate. Stackable credit-bearing credential developed with Dana Inc, focused on industrial control systems, PLCs, HMIs, motor control, and process automation. Credits stack into the broader Dana-partnered AAS pathway at Owens.

Tuition: $4,000/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Industry partners: Dana Incorporated
Visit program page

Overall

67

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39

Owens Community College · Perrysburg, OH

Dana Mechatronics Maintenance Certificate

Industrial maintenance technician track for high-tech manufacturing equipment uptime. The third Dana-partnered certificate at Owens, focused on mechanical maintenance, hydraulics, pneumatics, bearing and drive systems, and equipment troubleshooting. Three-semester program with hands-on lab work at Owens' Perrysburg campus.

Tuition: $4,000/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Industry partners: Dana Incorporated
Visit program page

Overall

67

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Clackamas Community College · Oregon City, OR

Mechatronics Certificate

Clackamas Community College's Mechatronics Certificate features FANUC 6-axis robot training and PID motion control labs. Stacks into the Clackamas Electronic Engineering Technology AAS. Oregon City location, south Portland metro.

Tuition: $4,000/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: NWCCU

Visit program page

Overall

66

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5% 65
41

Umpqua Community College · Roseburg, OR

Mechatronics Certificate

Umpqua Community College's Mechatronics Certificate is part of UCC's new 2026 Advanced Manufacturing and Forestry Hub. Covers mechanical drives, PLCs, hydraulics, and welding. Roseburg location serves the southern Oregon forestry, wood-products, and rural manufacturing base.

Tuition: $4,000/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: NWCCU

Visit program page

Overall

66

of 100

Click any factor for details

25% 70
15% 60
15% 60
15% 70
15% 50
10% 90
5% 65
42

Eastern West Virginia Community and Technical College · Moorefield, WV

Electromechanical Technology Certificate

Eastern West Virginia CTC's Electromechanical Technology Certificate is the 12-month standalone credential that stacks into the full Electromechanical Technology AAS.

Tuition: $4,000/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Visit program page

Overall

66

of 100

Click any factor for details

25% 70
15% 60
15% 60
15% 70
15% 50
10% 90
5% 65
43

West Virginia Northern Community College · Wheeling, WV

Electro-Mechanical Technologies Certificate

West Virginia Northern Community College's Electro-Mechanical Technologies Certificate is the 12-month standalone credential that stacks into the full Electro-Mechanical Technologies AAS.

Tuition: $4,000/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Visit program page

Overall

66

of 100

Click any factor for details

25% 70
15% 60
15% 60
15% 70
15% 50
10% 90
5% 65
44

Eastern Iowa Community Colleges · Davenport, IA

Industrial Mechanical Technology Certificate

Eastern Iowa Community Colleges serves the Quad Cities manufacturing region — John Deere's Davenport Works and East Moline operations, Alcoa's rolling mill, Tyson Foods processing, plus the Rock Island Arsenal across the river. The certificate covers industrial maintenance fundamentals, PLCs, hydraulics, and motor controls in a 10-month format. Credits stack into the EICC AAS in Industrial Mechanical Technology for students who want to continue.

Tuition: $4,200/yr

Length: 10 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Industry partners: John Deere, Tyson Foods
Visit program page

Overall

68

of 100

Click any factor for details

25% 70
15% 60
15% 60
15% 70
15% 66
10% 90
5% 65
45

Bossier Parish Community College · Bossier City, LA

Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics CTS

Bossier Parish Community College's Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics Certificate of Technical Studies is housed in the $22 million Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Technology built via Benteler Steel/Tube and State of Louisiana partnership. 33-credit credential aligned to Shreveport/Bossier manufacturing employers.

Tuition: $4,283/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: SACSCOC

Industry partners: Benteler Steel/Tube
Visit program page

Overall

67

of 100

Click any factor for details

25% 70
15% 60
15% 60
15% 70
15% 58
10% 90
5% 65
46

Ivy Tech Community College — Indianapolis · Indianapolis, IN

Advanced Automation & Robotics Technology (Mechatronics)

Ivy Tech operates Indiana's largest statewide community college system, with the Indianapolis campus housing the flagship mechatronics offerings. The certificate plugs students into two major apprenticeship pathways — Toyota T-TEN (mechatronics-track) and Cummins' apprenticeship program — both of which pair the academic credential with paid full-time technician roles. Eli Lilly's pharma manufacturing operations and the broader Central Indiana automotive supplier base round out the placement footprint.

Tuition: $4,300/yr

Length: 9 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Industry partners: Cummins, Eli Lilly, Toyota

Apprenticeship: Toyota T-TEN, Cummins Apprenticeship

Vendor partner: fanuc-cert
Visit program page

Overall

76

of 100

Click any factor for details

25% 70
15% 60
15% 80
15% 70
15% 92
10% 90
5% 80
47

Sinclair Community College · Dayton, OH

Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology (Mechatronics)

Sinclair Community College is one of the few schools nationally holding both FANUC CERT and Siemens SMSCP partner status, meaning students can earn industry certifications from both major automation OEMs inside a single program. Sinclair's Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology program is the mechatronics-equivalent credential — combining mechanical, electrical, and electronic systems training with hands-on lab work each semester. The Dayton, Ohio location puts students inside Honda of America Manufacturing's supplier base and GE Aviation's Evendale operations.

Tuition: $4,380/yr

Length: 8 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Industry partners: Honda of America, GE Aviation

Vendor partner: fanuc-cert, siemens-smscp
Visit program page

Overall

71

of 100

Click any factor for details

25% 70
15% 60
15% 60
15% 70
15% 82
10% 90
5% 80
48

Portland Community College · Portland, OR

Mechatronics Certificate (Microelectronics Pathway)

PCC's Mechatronics Certificate via the Microelectronics Tech pathway feeds Intel Hillsboro Fab-Technician, Lam Research field-engineer, and Qorvo equipment-engineer roles. Shorter than the AAS — finishes in under a year — with direct semiconductor-equipment alignment.

Tuition: $4,500/yr

Length: 9 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: NWCCU

Industry partners: Intel Hillsboro, Lam Research, Qorvo
Visit program page

Overall

69

of 100

Click any factor for details

25% 70
15% 60
15% 60
15% 70
15% 74
10% 90
5% 65
49

Rowan University · Glassboro, NJ

Certificate of Undergraduate Studies in Mechatronics

Rowan University's CUGS in Mechatronics is a 12-17 credit stackable certificate that sits on top of an ME, EE, or CS undergrad degree. Adds mechatronics-specific upper-division coursework for students who want the credential without changing their primary major. South Jersey location with Lockheed Martin Moorestown proximity.

Tuition: $4,500/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: MSCHE

Visit program page

Overall

66

of 100

Click any factor for details

25% 70
15% 60
15% 60
15% 70
15% 50
10% 90
5% 65
50

Mt. Hood Community College · Gresham, OR

Mechatronics: Industrial Automation Certificate

MHCC's Mechatronics: Industrial Automation Certificate is a 3-4 term credential focused on FANUC robotics and PLC programming for working maintenance technicians. Targets workers already employed in manufacturing who want to add mechatronics credentialing.

Tuition: $4,500/yr

Length: 9 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: NWCCU

Visit program page

Overall

66

of 100

Click any factor for details

25% 70
15% 60
15% 60
15% 70
15% 50
10% 90
5% 65
51

Central Community College · Columbus, NE

Mechatronics Diploma

Central Community College's Mechatronics Diploma is a 12-18 month credential at the Columbus campus that stacks toward the full Mechatronics AAS. Shorter pathway for working students who need a faster credential.

Tuition: $4,500/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Visit program page

Overall

66

of 100

Click any factor for details

25% 70
15% 60
15% 60
15% 70
15% 50
10% 90
5% 65
52

University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville · Batesville, AR

Mechatronics Certificate of Proficiency / Technical Certificate

UA Community College at Batesville's Mechatronics Certificate of Proficiency and Technical Certificate stack into the Industrial Technology AAS. Direct pipelines to Bad Boy Mowers (Batesville) and Peco Foods. North-central Arkansas location.

Tuition: $4,530/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Industry partners: Bad Boy Mowers, Peco Foods
Visit program page

Overall

68

of 100

Click any factor for details

25% 70
15% 60
15% 60
15% 70
15% 66
10% 90
5% 65
53

Gateway Technical College · Kenosha, WI

Mechatronics Technical Diploma

Gateway Technical College's Mechatronics Technical Diploma is delivered at the SC Johnson iMET Center in Sturtevant, WI. Gateway hosts the Rockwell Automation-partnered Academy of Advanced Manufacturing (12-week intensive program). Explicit articulation pathway to UW-Stout's online BS in Automation Leadership for students who want to continue to a four-year credential.

Tuition: $4,800/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Industry partners: Rockwell Automation

Vendor partner: rockwell
Visit program page

Overall

68

of 100

Click any factor for details

25% 70
15% 60
15% 60
15% 70
15% 66
10% 90
5% 65
54

Moraine Park Technical College · Fond du Lac, WI

Mechatronics Technician Apprenticeship

Moraine Park Technical College's Mechatronics Technician Apprenticeship is a 34-credit pathway (28-credit related instruction) registered through the Wisconsin DWD. Serves Fond du Lac, Washington, and Dodge County manufacturing employers. Note: the companion AAS was rebranded from Mechatronics to Electromechanical Technology in 2024, but the apprenticeship retains the mechatronics name.

Tuition: $5,000/yr

Length: 48 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Apprenticeship: Wisconsin DWD Registered Apprenticeship
Visit program page

Overall

69

of 100

Click any factor for details

25% 70
15% 60
15% 80
15% 70
15% 60
10% 80
5% 65
55

Colorado Mesa University · Grand Junction, CO

Technical Certificate in Mechatronics: Automation and Instrumentation

CMU Tech's Technical Certificate in Mechatronics: Automation and Instrumentation is a 9-12 month credential focused on automation and instrumentation technician roles. Ladders into the CMU Tech Mechatronics AAS for students who continue.

Tuition: $5,000/yr

Length: 12 months

Format: on-campus

Accred: HLC

Visit program page

Overall

65

of 100

Click any factor for details

25% 70
15% 60
15% 60
15% 70
15% 50
10% 80
5% 65

What jobs you can get with a certificate in mechatronics

Graduates of certificate mechatronics programs primarily enter technician-tier roles under BLS SOC 17-3024 (Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians), with a median annual wage of $70,760 per the May 2024 OEWS release. The role splits across three named job titles that share the same SOC, similar pay, and overlapping skill requirements:

SOC 17-3024 · $70,760 median

Mechatronics Technician

Installs, maintains, and troubleshoots integrated mechanical-electrical systems on a factory floor. The most direct landing role for certificate-credentialed candidates.

Full career profile →

SOC 17-3024 · $70,760 median

Automation Technician

Installs and maintains automated process and packaging lines at food, beverage, pharma, and chemical plants. Strong PLC + HMI focus.

Full career profile →

SOC 17-3024 · $70,760 median

Robotics Technician

Maintains, programs, and repairs industrial robots (FANUC, ABB, KUKA). Pairs well with vendor-specific certifications.

Full career profile →

Salary outlook for certificate graduates

Entry pay typically $32K-$45K for certificate-only candidates entering production-technician or maintenance-trainee roles. Pay rises significantly when paired with industry credentials (MSSC CPT, SMSCP) and 1-2 years of experience — moving into the mid-band of SOC 17-3024 ($55K-$70K).

Per BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook data for SOC 17-3024 (Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians), May 2024 OEWS:

Percentile	Annual wage	Profile
10th	$47,770	Entry-level floor
50th (median)	$70,760	5-10 years experience
90th	$88,630	Senior / specialized

Source: BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook — Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians

Pay rises significantly with experience and credential stacking. See the full Mechatronics Technician career profile for the complete pay progression across career stages and the named employers paying at each level.

Certifications to pair with this certificate

The certificate mechatronics credential's career impact is strongest when paired with industry-recognized certifications. The highest-leverage credentials to add:

MSSC · $120

MSSC CPT-MT

Maintenance Awareness module — the most affordable and fastest US manufacturing credential. Pair with certificate for resume-screening pass-through at large employers.

Full credential guide →

MSSC (Manufacturing Skill Standards Council) · $480

MSSC CPT (full)

All four CPT modules: Safety, Quality, Manufacturing Processes, Maintenance. DOL-recognized for apprenticeships.

Full credential guide →

Siemens · $250

Siemens SMSCP

Deep mechatronics-specific credential. Bundled into curriculum at Siemens CERT partner schools.

Full credential guide →

Compare all 7 mechatronics credentials →

How to evaluate a certificate program

Beyond the ranked list above, use these criteria when comparing specific programs side-by-side. Each criterion is one of the data inputs we use in our 7-factor scoring methodology.

Institutional accreditation. Verify the institution is accredited by a US Department of Education-recognized regional accreditor (SACSCOC, HLC, MSCHE, NWCCU, NEASC, WSCUC). Non-accredited certificates do not qualify for federal aid or transfer credit.
Industry-partner status. Siemens CERT partner, FANUC CERT partner, PMMI test-site, or active Rockwell Automation educational partnership. These signal real industry recognition and bundled credentialing opportunities.
Lab equipment inventory. Visit the lab or request a tour. Current-generation PLCs (Allen-Bradley CompactLogix or Siemens S7-1500), at least one industrial robot, current-generation pneumatic and motor-drive trainers. A program with one broken PLC and no robots is not credible.
Stackability to AAS. Confirm the certificate credits stack 100% into a related AAS at the same institution. If you plan to pursue a BS later, verify articulation with regional ABET-ETAC bachelor's programs.
Industry advisory board roster. Strong programs publish their advisory board members. Look for local large-employer representation — the same companies you would want to work for should be active in the program.
Published placement data. Honest programs publish placement data (within 90 days, by employer, with average starting wage). "98% placement" without methodology deserves scrutiny.

Cost & funding sources

Mechatronics certificate sticker prices range from $500-$2,500 for short certificates (8-16 credits) and $2,000-$6,000 for longer certificates (24-36 credits) at in-state community colleges. Out-of-pocket payment is uncommon — most candidates qualify for state workforce-development funding, employer apprenticeship sponsorship, or Pell-eligible longer-certificate paths.

The most common funding sources for certificate mechatronics candidates:

State Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) grants via local American Job Centers
Tennessee Reconnect (free for TN residents 25+)
Apprenticeship Carolina (SC)
Indiana Career Connect, Kentucky Work Ready, NC ApprenticeshipNC
Employer-sponsored apprenticeship programs (Toyota T-TEN, BMW Scholars, Caterpillar ThinkBIG, John Deere Tech)
GI Bill and military education benefits for veterans
Employer tuition reimbursement for incumbent workers
Federal Pell Grant (longer certificates that meet gainful-employment criteria)

Apply for funding before enrolling. WIOA and most state programs require pre-approval. Paying first and seeking reimbursement often does not work.

Time to credential & starting pay

How long it takes

Short certificates run 8-16 weeks (one semester) for full-time enrollment. Long certificates run 9-12 months. Apprenticeship-paired certificates typically complete in years 1-2 of a 3-4 year apprenticeship.

What you'll earn coming out

Adjacent credentials to compare

The certificate mechatronics credential is one of several closely-related credential paths. The right choice depends on your career direction, timeline, and financial situation.

Credential	Tradeoff
AAS in Mechatronics (full 2-year degree)	Takes 12-18 months longer but produces a portable transcripted degree with federal Pell-grant eligibility and promotion-path support at large employers.
Industry-certification-only path (MSSC CPT + SMSCP + apprenticeship)	No academic credential, but combines paid full-time work from day one with employer-sponsored credentialing.
Bachelor's in Mechatronics Engineering	Four years instead of months but opens engineer-tier roles at $70K-$95K and the FE-to-PE licensure pathway.

How we ranked these programs

Each program in this list is scored 0-100 across seven weighted factors. The scoring is deterministic — same methodology applied to every program with no editorial thumb on the scale. Per-factor scores are computed from data points we maintain in our program directory: accreditation status, named industry partners, tuition, format, partnership history.

Accreditation (25%): Active accreditation from the recognized body in this field, plus continuous accreditation history.
Program leadership (15%): Program director credentials, tenure, and ongoing professional involvement.
Pathways & laddering (15%): Stackable credentials, articulation agreements, and graduate-pathway support.
Delivery format (15%): Online/hybrid/in-person flexibility, residency requirements, and start dates.
Employer signal (15%): Documented hiring partnerships, internship placements, and graduate placement.
Cost & affordability (10%): In-state and online tuition, transparent fees, and aid availability.
Reputation (5%): Institutional reputation, regional accreditation, and student satisfaction signals.

Sort order on this page: programs are ranked by lowest annual tuition first because affordability is the point of this ranking. The full 7-factor score is still displayed on each card so you can see how each program scores overall — but the position in the list reflects tuition, not total score. For total-score rankings, see the national best-of ranking for this credential.

Pitfalls & things to know

Verify accreditation before enrolling. Some private vocational schools market mechatronics certificates without proper accreditation. Verify the institution holds accreditation from a US Department of Education-recognized accreditor.
Apply for funding before paying. State WIOA grants typically require pre-approval. Paying for a program first and then seeking reimbursement often does not work.
Check how the lab component is delivered. Online and hybrid certificate programs handle the hands-on component differently — some ship lab kits, some use simulation environments, some partner with regional facilities for periodic in-person blocks. Each approach works; just verify the specific delivery method matches how you learn best.
The certificate alone is rarely sufficient at large employers. Plan to pair with MSSC CPT-MT minimum, plus OSHA 10, plus at least one vendor-specific credential (SMSCP, FANUC NOCTI). The credential stack matters more than any single certificate.

Frequently asked questions

How are these programs ranked?

Each program is scored 0-100 across seven weighted factors: Accreditation (25%), Program leadership (15%), Pathways & laddering (15%), Delivery format (15%), Employer signal (15%), Cost & affordability (10%), Reputation (5%). Scores are computed deterministically from program data — same methodology applied to every program with no editorial thumb on the scale. Full per-factor scoring logic is on our methodology page.

Is this the complete list of US programs?

No. Our directory prioritizes programs with documented industry partnerships, current operation, and recognizable employer outcomes. Many additional programs exist nationwide that we have not yet catalogued. We add programs as we research and verify them.

How current is this data?

Program details (tuition, partnerships, accreditation status) verified as of 2026-05-19. BLS wage data is from the May 2024 OEWS release. We update annually or sooner when major program changes occur.

Will I qualify for state workforce funding?

In most states, yes. State Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) grants administered through local American Job Centers cover mechatronics credentials for many candidates. Tennessee Reconnect, Apprenticeship Carolina, and similar state programs offer additional funding paths. Apply for funding before paying out of pocket.

Can I move from this credential to an engineering bachelor's later?

Yes, with caveats. Certificate and AAS credits transfer most cleanly into ABET-ETAC bachelor's in mechatronics engineering technology (BSET) — many ETAC programs operate explicit 2+2 articulation agreements. Transfer into ABET-EAC bachelor's (engineering, not engineering technology) is harder because engineering-technology credits do not satisfy engineering-science prerequisites. Most candidates transferring to EAC restart engineering core.

What certifications should I pair with this credential?

For mechatronics certificate-track candidates, the highest-leverage certifications are MSSC CPT-MT, MSSC CPT (full), Siemens SMSCP. Each pairs well with the credential and signals depth to employers. See our certifications hub for the comprehensive comparison.

Sources & methodology

BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook — Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians (SOC 17-3024). May 2024 OEWS release.
BLS OEWS Industry Tables. Employment by industry.
ABET Accredited Programs Directory. EAC and ETAC accreditation status.
MSSC (Manufacturing Skill Standards Council). CPT credential structure.
Siemens SMSCP Partner Schools.
US Department of Labor — Apprenticeship.gov. Registered apprenticeship framework.
American Job Center Finder. WIOA funding application portal.
Our 7-factor ranking methodology. Per-factor scoring logic and weights.

Program details verified as of 2026-05-19. BLS wage data is from May 2024 OEWS release. Tuition figures from state community-college system tuition tables and individual institutional pages. Pay-percentile values between published 10/50/90 BLS anchors are interpolated.

Most Affordable Mechatronics Certificate Programs (2026)

The rankings

What jobs you can get with a certificate in mechatronics

Mechatronics Technician

Automation Technician

Robotics Technician

Salary outlook for certificate graduates

Certifications to pair with this certificate

MSSC CPT-MT

MSSC CPT (full)

Siemens SMSCP

How to evaluate a certificate program

Cost & funding sources

Time to credential & starting pay

How long it takes

What you'll earn coming out

Adjacent credentials to compare

How we ranked these programs

Pitfalls & things to know

Related rankings

Frequently asked questions

Sources & methodology

Keep reading