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Mechatronics Academy at Volkswagen is a multifaceted learning environment.  Located at the Volkswagen plant, it acts as a launching pad for students to be “ahead of the game” and expedite their higher educational goals while learning in an industrial setting.

Open to upcoming high school juniors and seniors, Mechatronics Academy offers students the opportunity to earn a high school diploma from their home school, up to 36 hours towards an associates degree in Mechatronics, and industry certifications.  Mechatronics Academy supports student achievement by providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary for post-secondary success.

Mechatronics Academy is a collaboration between Chattanooga State, Volkswagen Group of America, and the Hamilton County Department of Education. Mechatronics Academy offers a unique opportunity for students to pursue post-secondary goals while in high school. Students are expected to maintain a mature, responsible attitude while attaining a higher level of achievement. The Mechatronics Academy Guardian/Student Handbook is designed to be an overview of the procedures and services available on the Chattanooga State campus. We hope you find the information useful as you pursue academic success. The faculty looks forward to working with you during your Mechatronics Academy experience.


Mechatronics Academy students benefit from:

  • Having access to dual enrollment classes;
  • Having access to funding to help offset college costs;
  • Engaging in hands on learning using state of the art technology at the Volkswagen facility;
  • Small class sizes; and
  • Learning and practicing essential skills needed in the workforce in a professional setting.

Eligibility Criteria

Student Eligibility Criteria:

  1. 11th & 12th graders;
  2. Minimum 2.0 GPA and on track for graduation; and
  3. Satisfactory attendance and behavioral history.

Additionally, the following traits are necessary to be successful in our professional, industrial setting: maturity, discipline, initiative, self-advocacy, perseverance and time management.

Application Process

Applications for the 2026-2027 school year open on November 1, 2025, and close on January 31, 2026. Prior to applying, students and families should read the FAQs in entirety, along with the application directions. After deciding MAV is the right fit for you, families may apply using the link in the application directions. Incomplete and late applications will not be considered.

Apply Today!

Tuition and Fees

Dual Enrollment classes are based on the tuition rates set forth by Chattanooga State and may change annually. While we do offer grants for Juniors & Seniors, as well as a low-income scholarship for qualifying students, any remaining balance is the responsibility of the guardian(s) and student. See the FAQs for more information on these funding opportunities.

Out of state and out of district students will also be required to pay a percentage of the current out of state/district tuition rate to Hamilton County Schools. This tuition may fluctuate annually.

VW Apprenticeship

While not a required next step after graduation from MAV, many students choose to pursue an apprenticeship through Volkswagen Academy. Students at MAV have the opportunity to interview for the apprenticeship programs during their senior year of high school to further their education and training.

VW Apprenticeship

Curriculum Requirements

Students will earn both high school and college credits by taking Dual Enrollment classes. Below are the requirements to obtain a high school diploma. Beyond these requirements, students will take Dual Enrollment classes aligned to the pathway of their choice.

English 4 credits
Math 4 credits
Science 3 credits (must be lab sciences)
Fine Art 1 credit
Foreign Language 2 credits of same language
Social Studies 3 credits (Including Economics, US Government and US History)
Wellness: or
ROTC
1 credit
2 credits
Electives 3 credits
Personal Finance 1/2 credit
PE 1/2 credit

Computer Science:  1 credit (beginning with class of 2028)

The graphic below provides an outline of dual enrollment courses students typically take at MAV. Classes are subject to change based upon requirements for the AAS in Mechatronics and individual student needs.