Mechatronics and Robotics, Precision Machining and CNC, Automotive Technology, Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology, and Aviation Maintenance Technology. Each major below links to what it includes, the skills you build, career paths, suggested minors and how many colleges report awarding it.
| Major | Typical degrees | Career paths | Colleges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechatronics and Robotics | Certificate, associate and bachelor's degrees | Mechatronics Technician, Industrial Maintenance Technician, Electronics Technician | 315 |
| Precision Machining and CNC | Certificate and associate degree | CNC Machinist, CNC Operator, CNC Programmer | 356 |
| Automotive Technology | Certificate and associate degree | Automotive Service Technician, Auto Body Technician, Diesel Mechanic | 606 |
| Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology | Certificate and associate degree | Diesel Mechanic, Heavy Equipment Mechanic, Farm Equipment Mechanic | 308 |
| Aviation Maintenance Technology | Certificate and associate degree | Aircraft Mechanic, Avionics Technician, Aerospace Engineering Technician | 133 |
Colleges: active, degree-granting U.S. schools that reported awarding at least one degree or certificate in the field, IPEDS completions, awards conferred July 2023 to June 2024 (C2024_A).
Mechatronics and Robotics
Combines mechanics, electronics and programming to build and maintain automated systems. Mechatronics and robotics programs teach electrical and mechanical systems, sensors, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), robotics and automation.
Skills: PLC programming, Troubleshooting, Electrical and mechanical maintenance, and Reading schematics. Pairs well with: Computer Science, Business, Occupational Safety.
Precision Machining and CNC
Teaches you to make precision parts with manual and computer-controlled machines. Precision machining programs cover blueprint reading, measurement, machining processes, CNC programming and CAD/CAM.
Skills: Machine setup, CNC programming, Precision measurement, and Problem solving. Pairs well with: Business, Occupational Safety.
Automotive Technology
Prepares you to diagnose and repair cars and light trucks. Automotive technology programs cover engines, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, climate control, diagnostics and hybrid and electric vehicles.
Skills: Diagnostics, Using scan tools, Mechanical repair, and Electrical troubleshooting. Pairs well with: Business.
Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology
Teaches you to maintain diesel trucks, buses and heavy equipment. Diesel technology programs cover diesel engines, hydraulics, electrical systems, brakes, drivetrains and preventive maintenance for trucks and heavy equipment.
Skills: Diagnostics, Hydraulic repair, Electrical troubleshooting, and Preventive maintenance. Pairs well with: Business.
Aviation Maintenance Technology
Prepares you to inspect, maintain and repair aircraft. Aviation maintenance programs, often at FAA-certificated schools, cover airframes, powerplants, aircraft electrical systems and regulations.
Skills: Mechanical repair, Inspection, Following maintenance manuals, and Documentation. Pairs well with: Business.
Practical training for manufacturing and mechanics careers
These Career Education Institute courses connect to the careers above. Each is a short, self-paced online course about one job.
A self-paced online course on what diesel mechanics do: duties, 15+ key terms, step-by-step tasks, tools, safety and how to launch the career.
Skills you build: diesel engine diagnostics, air brake systems, and electrical and electronic troubleshooting
Why it fits: Connected to your Automotive Technology major
A self-paced online course on what automotive service technicians do: duties, 15+ key terms, step-by-step tasks, tools, safety and how to launch the career.
Skills you build: computerized diagnostics, brake and suspension repair, and electrical troubleshooting
Why it fits: Connected to your Automotive Technology major
A self-paced online course on what CNC programmers do: duties, 15+ key terms, step-by-step tasks, tools, safety and how to launch the career.
Skills you build: CAM programming, g-code and M-code, and blueprint and GD&T reading
Why it fits: Connected to your Mechatronics and Robotics major
A self-paced online course on what CNC machinists do: duties, 15+ key terms, step-by-step tasks, tools, safety and how to launch the career.
Skills you build: blueprint reading and GD&T, CNC setup and operation, and precision measurement
Why it fits: Connected to your Precision Machining and CNC major
A self-paced online course on what aircraft mechanics do: duties, 15+ key terms, step-by-step tasks, tools, safety and how to launch the career.
Skills you build: aircraft systems and inspections, FAA regulations and documentation, and engine (powerplant) maintenance
Why it fits: Connected to your Aviation Maintenance Technology major
A self-paced online course on what mechatronics technicians do: duties, 15+ key terms, step-by-step tasks, tools, safety and how to launch the career.
Skills you build: PLC programming, electrical troubleshooting, and robotics
Why it fits: Connected to your Mechatronics and Robotics major
Why consider career training alongside college?
Your college major gives you an academic foundation. Short career training can add practical knowledge of a specific job: what the work involves day to day, its vocabulary, common tasks, tools and safety rules. You do not have to wait until graduation: many students take a short course to test a career before choosing a major, to prepare for an internship or a part-time job, or to show employers they understand the work.
Manufacturing and Mechanics majors: frequently asked questions
What are the best manufacturing and mechanics majors?
The best major depends on the career you want. Common choices include Mechatronics and Robotics, Precision Machining and CNC, Automotive Technology, Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology, and Aviation Maintenance Technology. Compare the careers, coursework and skills for each.
How many manufacturing and mechanics majors are there?
This guide covers 5 majors in manufacturing and mechanics: Mechatronics and Robotics, Precision Machining and CNC, Automotive Technology, Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology, and Aviation Maintenance Technology. Colleges may use different names for similar programs.
What careers can you get with a manufacturing and mechanics major?
Careers connected to these majors include mechatronics technician, industrial maintenance technician, CNC machinist, CNC operator, automotive service technician, auto body technician, diesel mechanic, and heavy equipment mechanic. Some require a degree and a license, while others start with a certificate or on-the-job training.
Which manufacturing and mechanics majors are offered at the most colleges?
Automotive Technology (606 colleges), Precision Machining and CNC (356 colleges), Mechatronics and Robotics (315 colleges), and Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology (308 colleges), based on IPEDS completions data.
Which manufacturing and mechanics programs can you start with a certificate or associate degree?
Mechatronics and Robotics, Precision Machining and CNC, Automotive Technology, Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology, and Aviation Maintenance Technology are commonly offered as certificates or associate degrees, as well as at higher levels at some schools.
What skills do manufacturing and mechanics majors build?
Common skills include PLC programming, troubleshooting, machine setup, CNC programming, diagnostics, using scan tools, hydraulic repair, and mechanical repair.
Can I study manufacturing and mechanics online?
Many colleges that offer these majors also report offering fully online programs. Use the college search with a major selected and “Offers fully online programs”, then confirm with each school which programs are online.
Can I start training for a manufacturing and mechanics career before I finish college?
Yes. Short online career training can help you learn what a specific job involves and build practical knowledge while you study. It does not replace a degree or a required license.