Bachelor of Automation and Robotics (Honours) (Co-op) at Algonquin College

Combine the three fields of engineering to pursue a career in the field of automation and robotics.

The four-year Bachelor of Automation and Robotics (Honours) degree program prepares you for a career in the field of automation and robotics.

Autonomous and remotely operated systems are deployed the world over with ever increasing frequency. Such systems are being implemented in many instances to reduce risk to human workers, to achieve higher efficiencies in manufacturing and to improve the quality of lives through robot-assisted rehabilitation and care. Variations of these systems are often in place for reasons of feasibility, efficiency, safety or practicality. Traditionally, in order to develop such systems, collaborative expertise and knowledge in aspects of mechanical and electrical engineering as well as computer science is necessary. Through a combination of these three fields of engineering, this program helps you acquire the theoretical and applied expertise to succeed in the field of automation and robotics.

As a student in this program, you acquire knowledge and skills specific to electrical engineering, mechanical engineering and computer science, including:

• engineering principles, professionalism and methodologies
• fundamentals of mathematics, technical writing, dynamics, electronics, computer programming, optical systems and materials science
• machine design, control systems, electromechanical actuators, sensors, vision systems and the software necessary to design and simulate autonomous and remotely operated systems and components
• project planning and management, and research and leadership

This co-operative education program provides you with learning opportunities through industrial and/or applied research placements. A comprehensive final year project tied to the needs of industry exists to challenge you, presenting the opportunity to test and further develop knowledge and skills. If you are interested in the potential of self-employment, you have an opportunity to foster entrepreneurial aspirations.

In this program may find employment opportunities in sectors such as:

• industrial automation
• mining
• agriculture
• manufacturing
• aerospace
• healthcare
• defense

Graduates may also choose to pursue further academic study in fields related to manufacturing, robotics, control systems or other areas of mechanical or electrical engineering.

Algonquin College intends to pursue accreditation of this program with the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board of Engineers Canada.

SUCCESS FACTORS

This program is well suited for students who:

• Possess strong analytical, logical, mathematical and critical-thinking skills.
• Enjoy working with mechanical and/or electrical assemblies.
• Can work independently and collaborate in problem-solving teams.
• Are interested in working with a wide variety of people and situations.
• Have an appreciation for creative work and using cutting edge technology.

Careers & Pathways

Careers

Graduates may work in the engineering fields as robotics engineers, controls engineers, automation engineers, robotics specialists and automation systems designers. As well, graduates may work in the traditional engineering field as mechanical systems designers/engineers, electronic systems engineers and controls hardware/software designer/engineers.

Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

1. Analyze, design, modify and support mechanical, software and electrical components, processes and systems by applying fundamentals of engineering.
2. Build functional robotic components by researching and integrating knowledge from mechanical, electrical and software engineering practices.
3. Customize existing non-autonomous systems into autonomous or semi-autonomous systems by designing and integrating solutions and developing autonomy algorithms and controls.
4. Analyze and solve complex technical problems in the field of robotics and automation by applying the principles of engineering and mathematics.
5. Develop, execute and interpret quantitative and qualitative analysis and tests for industrial mechatronic and automation systems.
6. Lead and perform diagnostics on a variety of industrial automation controls, sensors, data acquisition devices and interfaces by developing and using troubleshooting skills and techniques.
7. Ensure all work is performed in compliance of relevant laws, codes, regulations, policies, ethical principles, safety procedures and engineering practices and standards.
8. Contribute to the on-going and upcoming innovation and research in the robotics and automation field.
9. Develop entrepreneurship and effective business planning skills to innovate robotics technology targeting new and existing local and global markets.
10. Develop personal and professional strategies and plans to adapt to change, maintain currency and foster interprofessionalism.
11. Manage the project and communication with clients and other professionals to translate abstract ideas into tangible project requirements and products.
12. Identify and apply discipline-specific factors that enable the contribution to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.

Program Eligibility

• Six Grade 12 university (U) or university/college (M) courses with a minimum 65% average including:
  • One Grade 12 U English course, with a minimum of 65%.
  • One Grade 12 U Physics course, with a minimum of 65%.
  • One Grade 12 U Calculus course, with a minimum of 65%.
  • One Grade 12 U Math course, with a minimum of 65%.
  • Two (2) other Grade 12 U or M courses.
• Please note that mature students must meet the following subject-specific Program Eligibility requirements, either directly or through equivalencies:
  • One Grade 12 U English course, with a minimum of 65%.
  • One Grade 12 U Physics course, with a minimum of 65%.
  • One Grade 12 U Calculus course, with a minimum of 65%.
  • One Grade 12 U Math course, with a minimum of 65%.
• Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
• IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each band; OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT)-overall 88, with a minimum of 22 in each component: Reading 22; Listening 22; Speaking 22; Writing 22.