Diagram of Mechanical Engineering Major Restructuring

Major changes are planned for the mechanical engineering departments within SeoulTech’s College of Engineering in 2026, with two departments being reorganized into three following a decision made on June 27, 2025.

The reorganization was approved on June 27, 2025, with the changes taking effect from Spring 2026. Current students were given the option to either transfer to one of the newly named departments or remain under their existing department. This choice will affect their curriculum for the remainder of their studies, as well as the department name printed on their diploma. Applications for registration changes were accepted from October 31 to November 14.

Details of the Reorganization

Drawing on information sessions and notices provided by each department, The SeoulTech summarizes the key changes.

● Department of Mechanical Engineering

The department announced that restructuring has been carried out to provide a curriculum to keep pace with rapidly advancing technologies and to provide better opportunities for students to work in a wider range of fields.

● Intelligent Robotics Engineering

According to the department’s homepage, the updated program focuses on bio, nano, energy, and manufacturing systems. The new curriculum, designed to meet the evolving needs of future industries, centers on intelligent robotics and semiconductor technologies across four specialized tracks: AI robots, intelligent machine design, advanced semi conductors, and energy systems.

● Automotive Engineering

The department’s revised curriculum reflects shifts in mobility and vehicle technology. At the freshman level, Introduction to Creative Engineering Design has been replaced with Introduction to Artificial Intelligence. Sophomore courses have also undergone major changes, with Fuel Cell Vehicles replaced by Hyd rogen Fuel Cell Systems and Automotive Materials replaced by Mobility Materials and Semiconductor Materials. Senior-year courses have likewise been revamped, with Automotive Body Structure Design and Engine Design replaced by Vehicle Dynamics Control and Optimal Design, respectively.

What do Students Think of the Changes?

The SeoulTech interviewed students majoring in mechanical-related fields to gather their perspectives on the departmental name changes. A student from the Department of Mechanical and Automotive Engineering said the updated name feels broader and more flexible. A student from the Department of Mechanical System Design Engineering was less pleased, stating that the new name somehow limits the field to robotics.

Overall, students were generally positive about the changes, particularly given intent for courses to keep pace with evolving industrial trends. However, they also voiced several concerns. One student said existing students should have been given more options, adding that the process would have been more satisfactory with greater student input rather than limiting choices simply to staying or transferring.

Other students stressed that the relaunch should be followed by tangible curricular and administrative changes. In particular, they called for greater flexibility in cross department course registration so they could take classes in other departments.

Reporters

Seongbeom Hong

hongsb@seoultech.ac.kr

Siyeon Oh

cinamellow@seoultech.ac.kr

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• e-mail : hongsb@seoultech.ac.kr

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