Creating a Robotic Future: An Online Mechanical Engineering Degree

By Jonathon Donald
Online Degrees Columnist

Robots are gaining popularity the world over. The Roomba, an automated vacuum, started the household robotic trend, which has extended to large firms and small businesses alike. Perhaps you should consider getting an online degree in mechanical engineering.

Will Robots Rule the World?

Robots aren't going to take over the world anytime soon, but they are being employed throughout the world, mostly in big industry. The United Nations recently published a report that stated there are about between 800,000 industrial robots in use in the world, but by 2007, that number will be closer to one million.

This growing number of robots will soon start spilling over into the common household, as several companies are planning on beginning sales of house robots. This includes Toyota Motor Company, which has plans to release a household robot by 2010, and Honda Motor Company, which is currently touring the "humanoid robot ASIMO."

Mechanical Engineering Meets the Future

According to Stephen Keeney, the ASIMO project leader, "to build a robot like ASIMO, it takes many, many different sciences. It takes people who understand mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer scientists [and other disciplines]." Mechanical engineers are an integral part of the robotic industry. As the desire and popularity for home robots grows, those with mechanical engineering degrees have an opportunity for an exciting career.

Designing the Future

Getting an online education in mechanical engineering is convenient, as you can create a schedule that fits your lifestyle and finish your online degree at your own pace. If you choose to pursue an online education in mechanical engineering, you have several options. There are many schools that offer online degrees, including bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees. You should compare their programs if you decide to chase a 'robotic' career, ensuring you are moving in the right direction.

Sources:

http://www.irobot.com/home.cfm
http://www.breitbart.com/news/2005/08/29/D8C9J6881.html
http://www.rediff.com/money/2005/jun/25robot.htm
http://www.asahi.com/english/Herald-asahi/TKY200506010188.html

About the Author

Jonathon Donald is a freelance writer, student and teacher. He currently writes for HQ?Publications, teaches English as a second language and attends the University of Nevada, Reno. He is currently pursuing a degree in Language and Linguistics, History, and TESOL.