Master in Mechatronics or Engineering Management

[hamidun]

Dear All,

I would like to have suggestion to choose between Master in Mechatronics or Engineering Management based on your opinion.

I have a Mechanical Engineering background. I have been a Project Engineer around 3 years. Currently I am working in EPC Company with core business producing Boiler, Thermal Oil Heater, basically in area of Heating.

And based on my current work, At first, I would like to widen my knowledge in PLC, Control Systems because my current company use automation in boiler by using PLC and I would like to study deeper in that. Because of that I would like to take Master in Mechatronics. The university I would like to enroll, offer Master of Mechanical Engineering with two concentrations: 1. Mechatronics and 2. Engineering Management

However, after I do online research, Engineering Management seems promising for my future career. With short story I have shared. What would you guys suggest for me to take between Mechatronics and Engineering Management based on your experience.

Your opinion is highly appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[MintJulep]

Do you want to be an engineer, or an engineering manager?

 

[TheTick]

Sounds like you are confused and lack direction. Typical manager.

 

[EnergyProfessional]

I would check what courses overlap and may talk to an advisor there. You typically have required and optional courses and it is possible if you go for management, some of the Mechatronik courses qualify and vice versa. Within reason, they are usually flexible. Especially if both are in the ME department.

 

[FACS]

You can always go into management later in life, and you will be a better manager with practical experience. I would get the Masters in Mechatronics, get some real world applications and do something creative; it will make you feel more accomplished.

The management will come later if you think that is where you fall into. In fact, if it is your real calling, you will naturally glide into management as others may see your potential in that area.

Don't be in a hurry to manage when you know little about what you are managing.

Good luck

 

[hamidun]

MintJulep,

I ask for suggestion, please do not ask me back

TheTick,

Yes, you are right. I am so confused right now, Sir.

EnergyProfessional,

Actually, I have talked to the Dean of the university and after I shared the same story above (regarding my current job and my purpose to widen knowledge in PLC) He suggested me to take Mechatronics.

FACS,

Yes FACS, I was also thinking the same with you. I can take PMP or Management Courses after taking Master in Mechatronics, right? But, I just really need encouragement, So that I feel confident to choose between Mechatronics or Management.

 

[Lomarandil]

It sounds like your desire is not to become a full-time manager/businessperson or to start your own company, but to improve your skills and value at your current company (or one like it). Is that right?

In that case, I would aim to complete the degree in mechatronics, but to see if the program includes the flexibility to take a few of your classes from the engineering management concentration.

Some engineering management classes (project management, leadership & strategy, public speaking) will be very useful to your career. But the full management concentration will probably include some classes on finance, marketing, etc. that you may not be as interested in. And many of the "business" topics can be learned nearly as well with a library card as a MBA.

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just call me Lo.