I’ve been trying to think lately about what would be a good minor for myself. I’m currently a mechanical engineering major, looking to go with a concentration in mechatronics. I also love dealing with animals. I watch informational shows and read books by leading researchers about animals in my free time a lot. I’ve always thought about applying my engineering degree towards nature, which is why I thought I could get a minor in biology to help with that.
My question, now that I’ve explained some circumstances, what kind of work could I do in the fields of animal research or environmental science could I apply a degree with mechatronics engineering and a biology minor? Or would it be better to obtain a different minor? I love animals and I think it would be awesome to work with them and get to do engineering still.
I’ve looked into environmental engineering, but that seems to focus more on pollution, energy, water, etc. I want to deal with animals more directly.
Yes! This is a type of way I’d like to apply the engineering degree. Other examples could include designing sensors to track elephant motion (to help learn how to deter poachers), designing sensors to track bat flight patterns, and designing things to help with cave exploration.
I’m just trying to find a way to mix animal studies and engineering.
I think I have a correct understanding. It’s mechines that use sensor input to adjust themselves. For instance, a plane taking in data that there’s thrbulace, and automatically adjusting something on the wings to help lessen vibrations to the cabin.
I think getting the deepest engineering exposure that you can (mechatronics, controls, programming, applicable EE classes, etc.) will get you what you need. I’m not sure the biology classes will be very useful, especially if it dilutes the depth of your engineering. The basic biology isn’t what you’re after, but rather how to apply engineering systems to biological systems. You may want to consider a Fundamentals of BME course like the one described below.
BMED 213. Bioengineering Fundamentals. 2 units
GE Area B2
Term Typically Offered: F,W,SP,SU
Prerequisite: MATH 142; for engineering students only. Corequisite: BIO 213. Recommended: CHEM 124.
Treatment of the engineering applications of biology. Genetic engineering and the industrial application of microbiology. Systems physiology with engineering applications. Structure and function relationships in biological systems. The impact of life on its environment. Course may be offered in classroom-based or online format. 2 lectures. Cross listed as BMED/BRAE 213. Fulfills GE B2.