Robotics

Robotics Degree

Develop the skills you need to thrive in the high-demand field of robotics and automation!

The robotics program at SMC can lead to a stable and fulfilling career that combines future-focused know-how in automation with technical skills in electronics, welding, and more.

• About the Robotics Degree

  Hands-on learning is the defining feature of the robotics program. From day one you’ll be working on real manufacturing equipment, including live industrial robots, Fanuc robots, Human-Machine Interface (HMI), and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC).

  You’ll begin the program by learning the fundamentals of electricity and motor controls before moving on to advanced studies in programmable logic controllers, hydraulics and pneumatics, microprocessors, welding, and more. You’ll learn how to diagnose and maintain complex integrative systems, all the while gaining practical experience accomplishing the tasks you’ll encounter on the job like wiring, running plumbing, and programming machines.

  Finally, you’ll cap off your experience with an internship at a local manufacturer, which often leads to job offers. You’ll graduate fully equipped to install, maintain, and repair robotic manufacturing equipment.

  If you’re interested in a bachelor’s degree (advisable if you’d like to work in management), this degree transfers well to Ferris State University’s Electrical/Electronics Engineering Technology program and can also transfer to other universities.

  The robotics program is offered on the Niles Campus.

  SMC offers both an Associate in Applied Science and a Certificate in Robotics. The certificate will equip you with the skills you need for employment. The associate degree will also prepare you for employment, but it builds on the certificate courses by adding the general education classes that will position you for advancement and further studies.

• What You’ll Learn

  View the full curriculum guide for the Associate in Applied Science in Robotics.

  View the full curriculum guide for the Certificate in Robotics.

• What Can I Do With a Robotics Degree?

  Manufacturing is no longer marked by the grimy, laborious work of the past. Today, much of the manpower has been replaced with machines. With this evolution comes the need for highly skilled workers capable of designing, running, and maintaining these automated manufacturing systems.

  Robotics is the building, programming, operating, and maintaining of robotic manufacturing equipment. A robotics engineer unites electrical, mechanical, telecommunications, and computer engineering to create a simpler, more economical, and reliable manufacturing system.

  Robotics and automation are growing fields, and skilled workers are in high demand. Regionally, there are many positions available for students immediately upon graduation with starting wages that can range from $52,000-$70,000. Faculty have strong relationships with local companies and are able to connect students with these employers.

  Careers and Salaries

  Career Option	Salary
  Electro-mechanical Technicians:	$65,080
  Mechanical Engineering Technicians:	$64,020

  2023 median pay. Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics