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Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering programs span a remarkable cost spectrum, from Greenville Technical College's $6,246 net price to private University of Detroit Mercy at $16,179. This field directly supports America's manufacturing renaissance, with companies like Tesla, Boeing, and General Motors driving demand for graduates who can bridge mechanical systems with advanced automation. The University of Washington leads in outcomes with an 83.7% graduation rate, while Michigan Technological University demonstrates that technical excellence doesn't require premium pricing at $15,729 net cost. Community colleges like Greenville Technical and Odessa College offer particularly affordable entry points, with Odessa's in-state tuition at just $2,640. Regional variations reflect local industry needs, from automotive centers in Michigan to aerospace hubs in Washington state.
17
Programs
$6,246 – $19,614
Net Price Range
$72,650
Avg. Program Earnings
49.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

17 Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $6,246 $5,639 17.6%
2 $8,463 $6,270 40.7%
3 $9,296 $2,640 27.9%
4 $10,904 $14,944 56.6% 54.1%
5 $12,599 $9,506 54.0% 72.5%
6 $13,485 $12,643 83.7% 47.5%
7 $13,696 $12,922 55.0% 97.5%
8 $13,725 $11,583 42.4% 78.6%
9 $14,368 $14,266 56.9% 76.9%
10 $15,001 $8,689 44.1% 94.9%
11 $15,015 $8,118 41.6% 85.4%
12 $15,729 $18,392 68.7% 93.7%
13 $16,136 $8,455 41.4% 61.5%
14 $16,179 $32,300 68.1% 90.5%
15 $16,972 $5,786 48.1% 67.9%
16 $18,268 $11,060 29.4% 83.9%
17 $19,614 $12,846 65.5% 88.0%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the dramatic cost differences between similar programs?

Public institutions dominate this field, with 14 of 15 schools being state-supported. In-state students at Odessa College pay just $2,640 annually, while University of Detroit Mercy charges $32,300 before aid. Net costs after financial aid narrow this gap significantly, ranging from $6,246 to $16,179. Geographic location and state funding levels create most of the variation.

How do graduation rates correlate with program costs?

Higher-cost programs generally show better completion rates, though exceptions exist. University of Washington at $13,485 net cost achieves 83.7% graduation, while Greenville Technical at $6,246 graduates 17.6% of students. Michigan Technological University proves cost isn't everything, delivering 68.7% graduation rates at $15,729 net price. Community colleges typically show lower four-year completion rates due to part-time student populations.

Is geographic location important for career outcomes in this field?

Regional job markets significantly influence opportunities, with manufacturing centers offering the strongest prospects. Michigan schools like University of Michigan-Dearborn and Lake Superior State benefit from automotive industry proximity. Washington state programs connect to aerospace and tech sectors, reflected in University of Washington's strong outcomes. Southern schools often emphasize textile automation and emerging manufacturing facilities.

What makes community college programs competitive with universities?

Two-year programs at Greenville Technical and Odessa College offer direct industry training at a fraction of university costs. Graduates enter the workforce immediately rather than accumulating four years of debt. However, university programs provide broader engineering foundations and research opportunities. The $72,650 median earnings apply regardless of degree level, making community colleges attractive for career switchers and budget-conscious students.

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.