There's always a need for engineers, but there are two fields in the industry that are growing exponentially: mechanical and bioengineering. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts job growth of 11% in mechanical engineering and 7% in bioengineering between 2023 and 2033.1,2 As a subset of mechanical engineering, robotics stands poised for growth, too. Professionals looking to advance their knowledge in these fields may be highly attractive to corporations, government entities, and other organizations.
Santa Clara Online’s engineering certificate programs in Robotics and Automation and Applied Bioengineering open the door to new skills and career advancement—on your schedule. These new programs meet the unprecedented demand for engineering professionals with unique skills. You can complete your certificate in a fully online setting in as little as one year.
This post explores how Santa Clara Online’s engineering certificates can equip you with the skills needed for a dynamic career in applied bioengineering or robotics and automation.
Flexible Learning for Working Engineers
Santa Clara Online’s part-time engineering certificate programs are designed to fit into your busy life, offering fully online, asynchronous classes with no commute required.
These online engineering programs were designed with working professionals in mind. This format allows professionals to improve their skills without taking time away from their careers. Whether you want to enhance your skill set, change your focus, or simply prepare for the future of engineering, Santa Clara Online can help.
Two Specialized Certificate Tracks
We introduced our online engineering certificates to address the needs of graduate students and Silicon Valley companies in emerging technology fields. These certificates pave the way for engineering career advancement in pioneering industries.
Robotics and Automation Certificate
The way people do work is changing before our eyes, and the robotics industry is leading in innovation. In this certificate program, students gain extensive knowledge of robotic systems, designs, and controls. You'll learn how to apply the technical aspects of robotics to growing fields, including advanced manufacturing, teleoperation, and the industrial Internet of Things (IoT). While not required for completion of a Robotics and Automation Certificate from Santa Clara Online, all enrollees have the option to spend time in our Robotic Systems Laboratory. The lab gives you hands-on experience with innovative robotics tools, including underwater robots, drones, and satellite systems.
Our robotics engineering graduates work for well-known companies in Silicon Valley and throughout the United States, including Apple, Applied Materials, and Amazon. They're using their knowledge to tackle projects that will revolutionize numerous industries. You can meet prospective employers and alumni at our career fairs and networking events, which we encourage all engineering students to attend.
Applied Bioengineering Certificate
Bioengineering combines engineering principles with technical prowess to solve tough problems. Bioengineers work on issues such as early identification of disease, regenerative medicine, and molecular biotechnology.
The Applied Bioengineering Certificate teaches students the fundamentals of bioengineering, which can be applied in many fields, including technology, healthcare, and genetics. You'll learn about tools researchers and organizations use to create and develop cost-effective and accurate solutions to treat human illnesses.
Our bioengineering certificate program prepares you for a career with leading companies such as Genentech, Medtronic, Stryker, and Roche. While you can complete it entirely online, Santa Clara Online offers regular in-person networking events where you can connect with fellow students, faculty, and potential employers.
Real-World Outcomes and Career Impact
With our online engineering certificates, you'll gain the skills you need for professional advancement and promotions. These programs teach skills in cutting-edge areas unheard of just 10 or 15 years ago. They're ideal for engineering professionals interested in building something new, whether that means robotics tools that explore the ocean's depths, health solutions that enhance longevity, or something else entirely.
Michael Aboh, an Equipment Automation Engineer with Tesla, credits Santa Clara with helping him create a diverse portfolio of projects that caught his employer's eye. "Thanks to SCU,” he said, “my career path will continue to be a blend of mechanical engineering and robotics, guided by a continuous pursuit of knowledge and innovation in automation.”
Access to Supportive Resources and Our Career Center
Our online programs give you flexible learning options, but you still retain access to Santa Clara University's campus and Career Center. As a student, you can explore our engineering labs and STEM education facilities. We regularly host scholars and guest speakers who discuss the future of robotics, bioengineering, and other hot topics. You'll have an opportunity to join in on the conversation and meet some of the leading innovators in the industry.
You can also take advantage of our renowned Career Center to meet with advisors who can connect you with mentors and prepare you for the next step after graduating from the program. We offer one-on-one coaching and several career fairs throughout the year.
Pathways to Further Graduate Study
For some of our students, online engineering certificates offer a means to learn more about a subject before committing to an advanced degree program. If you're contemplating a graduate degree in Robotics and Automation or Bioengineering but aren't quite ready to take the plunge, you can apply your certificate to graduate studies. Each certificate counts as 16 units, shortening the time to complete a master's degree at Santa Clara University.
Take the Next Step: Level Up Your Career with Santa Clara Online's Engineering Certificates
Now is the time to prepare yourself for the future of engineering. The Santa Clara Online engineering programs allow you to elevate your skillset in two leading fields: bioengineering and robotics and automation. After completing your certificate, you'll have mastered fundamental competencies that give you an edge in your professional engineering career. Additionally, both certificates give you credits that apply to our master's programs if you decide to pursue a graduate degree.
As an online learner, you can manage your coursework around your schedule. There are no in-person course requirements, so you don't have to make daily trips to campus. All students can access our labs, facilities, and career resource center.
We encourage you to learn more about Santa Clara University's online engineering certificates. To start the admissions process or explore tuition and financial aid, reach out to the Santa Clara Online's admissions team.
- Retrieved on May 13, 2025, from bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/mechanical-engineers.htm
- Retrieved on May 13, 2025, from bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/biomedical-engineers.htm

