As the world becomes more reliant on machines and automated systems, the need for robotics engineers is consistently increasing.
To become a robotics engineer, you'll need a degree in robotics or robotics engineering. Keep reading for our list of the top five robotics engineering schools and colleges in the United States.
Top 5 Robotics Engineering Schools and Colleges in the U.S.
Several excellent colleges and universities in the United States offer robotics engineering programs. We've listed our top choices below.
1. Carnegie Mellon University
Carnegie Mellon University is a private research university in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It hosts one of the leading programs for robotics research and education in the country.
Through the Robotics Institute, students can earn a Bachelor of Science (BS) in robotics. This program trains students to use robotics to solve real-world problems.
It covers concepts like:
- computer vision and sensing
- general robotic systems
- mechanisms and manipulation
- robotic building practices
Graduate students can earn a Master of Science (MS) in robotics. This is a two-year program that focuses on applied robotics research and concludes with a thesis presentation.
An MS in robotic systems development is also available for students interested in robot systems development and automation. It's a 21-month program that includes a 12-week internship.
Interested students can continue on to earn their Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in robotics. This program takes five to six years and is focused on basic and applied robotics research.
2. Georgia Institute of Technology
The Georgia Institute of Technology is a public research university in Atlanta, Georgia. Its Institute for Robotics and Intelligent Machines offers graduate robotics programs.
The Master of Science in robotics program teaches students to design and develop robotics and automation solutions.
It includes courses such as:
- Dynamics of Mechanical Systems
- Human-Robot Interaction
- Machine Learning Fundamentals for Mechanical Engineering
- Multivariable Linear Systems and Control
The master's program takes four semesters to complete and includes an internship.
The institute also offers a PhD program in robotics. This program requires 36 hours of courses, a final exam, and the presentation and defense of a doctoral thesis.
3. Johns Hopkins University
Johns Hopkins University is a private research university in Baltimore, Maryland. It's home to the Laboratory for Computational Sensing and Robotics.
The laboratory offers a Master of Science in engineering in robotics that trains students to develop and deploy advanced robotics systems.
Students choose from six specialization tracks, including:
- Automation Science and Engineering
- BioRobotics
- General Robotics
- Medical Robotics
Additionally, students can choose between a course-work option, which is made up of 10 full-time courses, or the research/internship option, with eight courses plus a research essay or internship.
While a specific bachelor's program isn't available in robotics, engineering students can earn a minor in robotics or pursue the five-year bachelor's/master's in engineering in robotics degree program.
4. University of Michigan
The University of Michigan is a public research university in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It offers undergraduate and graduate degrees through its robotics department in the College of Engineering.
The bachelor's degree in robotics is a fairly new program. It takes four years to complete and includes courses such as:
- How to Build Robots and Make Them Move
- Localization, Mapping, and Navigation
- Robot Operating Systems
- Robot Sensors and Signals
The Master of Science in robotics program covers robotics sensing, reasoning, and acting. It requires 30 credits in courses like:
- 3D Robot Perception
- Hybrid Systems: Specification, Verification & Control
- Introduction to Algorithmic Robotics
- Programming for Robotics
A PhD in robotics is also available, which includes coursework, as well as a thesis proposal and defense. It offers an option for students to earn their master's as part of their PhD program.
5. Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Worcester Polytechnic Institute is a private research university in Worcester, Massachusetts. It offers multiple programs for robotics engineering.
Students can earn their Bachelor of Science in robotics engineering. This program gives students hands-on experience in understanding, designing, and controlling robots.
Courses include:
- Accelerated Object-Oriented Design Concepts
- Embedded Computing in Engineering Design
- Unified Robotics I: Actuation
- Unified Robotics II: Sensing
At the graduate level, students can earn a Master of Science in robotics engineering.
This program is available on campus and online and includes courses such as:
- Biomedical Robotics
- Continuum Robotics
- Human-Robot Interaction
- Robot Dynamics
Students can also earn a PhD in robotics. This program is research-based and allows students to pursue research in a variety of robotics specializations.
Additionally, the robotics engineering department offers a robotics engineering minor and an online robotics engineering graduate certificate.
FAQs About Top Robotics Engineering Schools and Colleges in the U.S.
Below, you'll find the answers to frequently asked questions about the top robotics engineering schools and colleges in the U.S.
How Long Are Robotics Engineering Degree Programs?
The length of a robotics degree program depends on what level of degree you're pursuing. Bachelor's degrees typically take four years, and master's take two. Doctoral degrees can take several years.
Can I Earn a Robotics Engineering Degree Online?
Due to the nature of robotics programs, schools don't generally offer robotics degrees completely online. However, you may be able to take a portion of your courses online.
What Can I Do with a Degree in Robotics Engineering?
Students who earn a degree in robotics can find jobs as robotics engineers, technicians, or designers.
Find Top Robotics Engineering Schools and Colleges in the U.S.
Students in the U.S. can find robotics engineering programs at a few different colleges and universities. Check out our top picks above to find the right program for you today.
