Online Master's in Robotics Programs for 2024

Featured Online Programs

Best Online Master’s in Robotics Programs

A Master’s degree online opens doors to innovation and expertise. The best online Master’s in Robotics Programs provide a mixture of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and cutting-edge research. Tailored for working professionals and aspiring engineers, these programs offer flexible schedules, ensuring a seamless integration of education into daily life. Choosing the best online master’s in robotics program involves evaluating essential factors such as tuition fees, teacher-to-student ratio, accreditation, graduation rate, and program reputation. A comprehensive assessment ensures a high-quality and reputable education that prepares individuals for a successful career in the dynamic and evolving field of robotics. Here are the Best Robotics Master’s programs selected by OMC teams:

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College Name & Address	Tuition	Graduation Rate
#1 Georgia Institute of Technology 225 North Ave, Atlanta, Georgia 30332	$14,064	90%
#2 Worcester Polytechnic Institute 100 Institute Road, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609	$28,188	89%
#3 Stevens Institute of Technology Castle Point On Hudson, Hoboken, New Jersey 07030	$36,680	85%
#4 Columbua University 525 W 120th St, New York, New York 10027	$47,600	95%
#5 University of Southern California University Park, Los Angeles, California 90089	$46,272	92%
#6 Brandeis University 415 South St, Waltham, Massachusetts 02454	$51,940	87%
#7 Colorado State university 585 Salida Way, Aurora, Colorado 80011	$9,000	NA
#8 Drexel University (Blended) 3141 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104	$35,181	69%
#9 Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University 1 Aerospace Blvd., Daytona Beach, Florida 32114	$8,268	28%

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

Understanding an Online Master’s in Robotics Program

An Online Master’s in Robotics Program offers a comprehensive exploration of the field’s interdisciplinary nature, encompassing Electrical, Mechanical, and Computer Engineering. Beyond technical aspects, it extends into design principles and psychology, providing a holistic understanding. Students delve into the intricacies of machine development, gaining the skills to create innovative robots that serve as effective substitutes for various human activities. This program not only equips graduates with technical proficiency but also fosters a deep appreciation for robotics’s societal and psychological dimensions.

Curriculum and Skills Gained in a Robotics Program

The curriculum in a Master’s in Robotics Program is carefully designed to help students deeply understand advanced robotics concepts and technologies. It covers both theory and hands-on applications, developing skills in designing, programming, and implementing robotic systems. The goal is to prepare graduates for diverse roles in the dynamic field of robotics.

The curriculum of programs may differ from school to school; however, some standard core courses may be part of the coursework, including:

Dynamics, Navigation, Decision, and Control: This course explores Dynamics, Navigation, Decision, and Control, providing a comprehensive exploration of the complex interrelation between these crucial aspects. Students gain a deep understanding of how robotic systems dynamically navigate environments and make decisions, enhancing their expertise in the field.

Perception and Cognitive Systems: This course explores designing sophisticated perception, reasoning, and cognitive systems. It focuses on interpreting vast amounts of data from sensory systems, including images, video, depth maps, optical flow, and movements, enhancing understanding and application of perception and cognitive processes in autonomous systems.

Autonomous Systems: This course explores designing autonomous systems, encompassing kinetic and non-kinetic robotic systems. Students learn to create robots that can perceive themselves and their surroundings, interpret perceptions, devise action plans, execute goals, and conduct checks to assess changes, providing comprehensive insights into autonomous system development.

Human-robot and Robot-Robot Teaming: This robotics course emphasizes the design of autonomous systems capable of addressing challenges related to ethical and socially acceptable human-robot and robot-robot teaming. It covers creating systems that navigate complex ecosystems of intelligent entities, such as autonomous vehicles and smart cities, with emergent and unpredictable behaviors.

General Robotics: The General Robotics course provides a comprehensive overview of various aspects of the field, covering fundamental principles, theories, and practical applications. Students explore diverse topics, gaining insights into robotic technologies’ broad spectrum, functionalities, and potential applications across industries.

A student gains several abilities from a master’s in robotics, including:

Advanced Programming: Proficiency in coding languages, algorithms, and software development for robotic systems.
Robotics Systems Design: Ability to design, model, and analyze complex robotic systems for various applications.
Machine Learning and AI: Integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques to enhance robotic capabilities.
Sensing and Perception: Understanding and implementing sensor technologies for environmental perception in robotics.
Control Systems: Expertise in designing control algorithms to govern the behavior and movement of robotic systems.
Kinematics and Dynamics: In-depth knowledge of the motion and forces involved in robotic systems.
Human-Robot Interaction: Skills in designing and implementing interfaces for effective collaboration between humans and robots.
Autonomous Systems: Capability to develop and deploy robotic systems capable of autonomous decision-making and action.
Robotics Ethics: Understanding ethical considerations in designing, deploying, and using robotic technologies.
Project Management: Skills in planning, executing, and managing complex robotics projects.

Online Master’s in Robotics Degree Types

The types of degrees offered in a Master’s in Robotics program can vary across institutions. However, common degree types include Master of Science (M.S.) in Robotics and Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) in Robotics. Each degree type may emphasize different aspects of robotics, ranging from theoretical foundations to practical applications and engineering solutions. Exploring specific program offerings is important to determine the most suitable degree type for individual career goals and interests.

Master of Science (M.S.) in Robotics

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Robotics is a graduate program exploring robotics’s advanced principles and applications. It emphasizes theoretical knowledge, research, and innovation, preparing students to tackle complex challenges in the field. Graduates gain a deep understanding of robotics concepts and emerging technologies.

Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) in Robotics

The Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) in Robotics is a professional graduate program focusing on practical skills and applications in robotics. It is designed to equip students with the expertise needed for hands-on engineering roles, emphasizing real-world problem-solving and implementation in the rapidly evolving field of robotics.

Artificial Intelligence vs. Robotics

Artificial Intelligence strives to create intelligent systems that simulate human thought processes. Robotics is the broader field that deals with constructing and operating physical machines, including robots, often integrating AI for enhanced functionality.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI involves creating systems or machines that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. It includes various technologies such as natural language processing, machine learning, and computer vision. AI systems aim to simulate human cognitive functions, enabling them to learn, reason, and solve problems autonomously.

Robotics

Robotics involves creating, constructing, operating, and using physical entities known as robots, capable of movement and interaction with the environment.

While AI is a core component of robotic systems, robotics extends beyond AI to include mechanical and electrical engineering aspects, focusing on creating physical machines capable of performing tasks.

Areas of Specialization for Robotics Students

Apart from the foundational knowledge gained from the Robotics master’s program, individuals may opt for elective coursework or specializations. Robotics is a vast field, and choosing a discipline helps in becoming well-equipped in a specific aspect of Robotics. Specializations include perception, robot design, AI, and control systems. Here are some robotics specializations:

Area of Specialization	Description	Careers This Concentration Prepares For
Mechatronics	This specialization focuses on the interdisciplinary integration of mechanical engineering, electronics, computer science, and control engineering. Students gain expertise in designing intelligent systems and machines, blending mechanical and electronic components to create advanced robotics solutions for various applications.	Robotic System Analyst, Automation Engineer, and Mechatronics Engineer.
Robotics and autonomous systems.	In this specialization, students delve into the design and development of advanced robotic systems capable of autonomous navigation, decision-making, and interaction with their environment. The curriculum covers perception, cognition, and control to create cutting-edge robotics solutions for diverse applications.	Robotics Engineer, Autonomous Systems Developer, and Robotic Systems Integrator.
Robotics perception and manipulation	This specialization focuses on developing expertise in the intricate domains of robotics perception and manipulation. Students master advanced techniques for robots to interpret sensory data, make informed decisions, and manipulate objects with precision, contributing to advancements in robotic autonomy and dexterity.	Robotics Perception Engineers, Manipulation Systems Specialist, and Perception and Manipulation Robotics Researcher.
Human-Robot and Robot-Robot Teaming	This specialization explores designing autonomous systems that collaborate ethically with humans and other robots. Students explore challenges in fair and socially acceptable interactions, preparing for the complexities of emerging intelligent ecosystems like autonomous vehicles and smart cities.	Human-Robot Interaction Designer, Human-Robot Collaboration Specialist, Robotics User, and Experience Researcher in Robotics.
Perception and Cognition	This specialization equips students with the skills to interpret vast sensory data. From images and video to depth maps, the program trains individuals to design robotic systems capable of sophisticated reasoning, enhancing the field of robotics and autonomous systems.	Cognitive Computing Engineer, Human-Machine Interaction Specialist, and Autonomous Systems Developer.

Timeline for graduation from Robotics Master’s Programs

An online master’s in Robotics requires approximately two years for completion. However, the program also offers part-time options, making it ideal for professionals looking to enhance their skills. For those aiming for a quicker pace, it’s feasible to complete the entire Master’s program within a year. Modern universities and institutes are designing flexible courseware to accommodate individuals seeking convenience in pursuing the course.

Accelerated Robotics Programs

Accelerated online Master’s programs in Robotics offer a unique pathway for students to elevate their expertise swiftly and efficiently within the dynamic field. Some universities even provide the option of a BS to MS Robotics program, allowing ambitious learners to complete both degrees in just five years. These programs, conducted from the convenience of one’s home, feature a condensed yet comprehensive curriculum, ensuring a quicker attainment of the master’s degree compared to traditional on-campus routes. Aspiring students should conduct thorough research to select the right accelerated online Master’s program aligning with their career aspirations and academic interests. This transformative educational opportunity opens doors to exciting prospects in the dynamic realm of robotics. Examples of colleges offering accelerated master’s in robotics programs are:

Northeastern University ¹

Carnegie Mellon University²

Requirements for Getting into an Online Master’s in Robotics Program

Robotics Engineering requirements align with standard Master’s program criteria. Prospective applicants must familiarize themselves with the admission prerequisites in advance to ensure a seamless enrollment process. Here are the common requisites for any university:

Graduate and undergraduate courses’ official transcripts

Application form and fees

Transcripts from undergraduate degrees

GRE scores/GMAT scores

Letters of recommendation

Statement of Purpose

No GRE Online Master’s in Robotics Programs

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test commonly needed for admission to various master’s programs in the United States. Nevertheless, a growing number of colleges are opting to waive the GRE requirement entirely. After the pandemic, specific institutions have opted to make the GRE optional for the present and future academic years. The John Hopkins Whiting School of Engineering ³ is an excellent example of a university offering an online robotics master’s program with no GRE requirement.

Accreditation for Online Master’s in Robotics Programs

Accreditation is a method used for authenticating the programs offered by the institutes. When planning to enroll for an online master’s in Robotics, it is a must to go for accredited programs. The accreditation process validates that the institute’s curriculum follows the standards laid by the agency, ensuring quality education.

The following are some of the agencies that accredit Online Master’s in Robotics:

Artificial Intelligence Board of America (ARTiBA) ⁴
ARTiBA accreditation is a flagship agency that helps universities, colleges, and programs to reach benchmark quality in learning, teaching, and researching Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning.
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc. ⁵
ABET is acknowledged by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) ^6, a nationally recognized entity facilitating monitoring accreditation processes and acknowledged programs. The U.S. Department of Education⁷ oversees the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs, offering additional details on accreditation.

Most colleges also gain regional accreditation by one of the following bodies:

New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) ⁸
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)⁹
Higher Learning Commission (HLC) ¹⁰
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)¹¹
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) ¹²
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) ¹³

Find out more about accreditation in the Accreditation Guide.

Where to Find Free Online Courses for Robotics Master’s Students

In robotics, students can enroll in free courses to enhance their understanding of the field. Certain free courses also provide insights into the working methods of professionals in the field. One must remember that these free courses offer only information and not only certification. Here are some free courses that can be pursued:

Course	Robotics ¹⁴
Provided by	edX
Description	The course will explore the basics of robotics, emphasizing both cognitive and physical aspects. It encompasses two primary robot categories: kinematic chains (robot arms) and mobile bases. Methods for understanding 3-dimensional space and relationships between coordinate frames will be introduced for both types. Regarding robot arms, these methods will be applied to model the task of delivering a payload to a specified location, while concepts for autonomous navigation amidst obstacles will be covered for mobile robots.

Course	Diploma in Robotics ¹⁵
Provided by	Alison
Description	This course explores the foundational aspects of the field, beginning with its historical background and progressing to explore diverse applications and principles governing robotics. Participants will deepen their comprehension of forward and inverse kinematics in animation, gaining insights into ‘manipulators,’ a crucial component of industrial robots.

Course	Introduction to Robotics¹⁶
Provided by	MIT OpenCourseWare
Description	This course offers a comprehensive exploration of robot mechanisms, dynamics, and intelligent controls. Covered topics encompass planar and spatial kinematics, motion planning, manipulator and mobile robot mechanism design, multi-rigid-body dynamics, 3D graphic simulation, control design, actuators, sensors, human-machine interface, wireless networking, task modeling, and embedded software.

Robotics for Beginners

Robots are a fascinating concept. When understanding that technology and the right mechanism can create a machine that can substitute human activity, the eagerness to learn and explore such a field will be greater. If one also comes under this category and initiates an understanding of robots through a beginner’s course, then Robotics Engineering for Beginners is the right path. Here are some of the robotics for beginners’ courses:

Introduction to Robotics from Stanford University¹⁷

Mobile Robotics from Open2Study ¹⁸

How to Pay for Online Master’s in Robotics Programs

The cost of an online master’s in Robotics is high in the United States. Students and working professionals with commitments and financial issues may face financial constraints, making finance the biggest hurdle to pursuing this degree. Fortunately, several options are available to make paying for higher education more affordable:

Scholarships

Scholarships are financial awards granted to students based on academic achievement, leadership, or other criteria. They help reduce the financial burden of education, enabling access to higher learning for deserving individuals. Scholarships may be merit-based, need-based, or cater to specific talents, fostering educational opportunities and promoting academic diversity.

Grants

Grants cover tuition, books, and other related expenses, helping to alleviate the financial burden of education. Government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private entities may offer them to promote access to education, foster academic excellence, and support diverse educational initiatives.

Graduate Assistantships

Graduate assistantships are positions within academic institutions where graduate students work part-time in research, teaching, or administrative roles in exchange for financial support through tuition waivers and stipends. This arrangement helps students fund their education and provides valuable professional experience and mentorship in their respective fields.

Internships

Internships provide hands-on experience to students and recent graduates, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. These opportunities enhance skills, build networks, and often lead to job offers.

Student Loans

Student loans are financial aid students can borrow to cover educational expenses. These loans typically have lower interest rates and flexible repayment options, making them a common choice for financing higher education.

FAFSA¹⁹

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a form used to assess a student’s eligibility for federal financial aid and potential funding from institutions. For further information on financial aid, consult the FAFSA guide designed for students.

Read the Financial Aid Guide for more information on funding higher education.

Scholarships for Robotics Students

Apart from the various payment methods the institutes provide, scholarships sponsored by a few support education. If students are enthusiastic about having a career and aiming for an online master’s in robotics, then there is a chance to know the scholarships available in the Robotics field and gain the maximum.

Asian Pacific Community Fund – Verizon Scholarship Awards Program ²⁰

The Asian Pacific Community Fund and Verizon have collaborated to aid students in pursuing Robotics education. This scholarship aims to support individuals facing significant financial crises while paying the fees.

Award/Amount: Varies

Deadline: Varies

SMART Scholarship for Service Program ²¹

The SMART Scholarship-for-Service Program is a comprehensive educational and workforce development initiative for STEM students. It provides scholarships for those pursuing STEM degrees at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels. Awardees benefit from full tuition coverage, annual stipends, internships, and assured employment with the Department of Defense upon graduation.

Award/Amount: Varies

Deadline: December 1, annually

Asian Pacific Community Fund – Verizon Scholarship Awards Program ²⁰

The Asian Pacific Community Fund and Verizon have collaborated to aid students in pursuing Robotics education. This scholarship aims to support individuals facing significant financial crises while paying the fees.

Award/Amount: Varies
Deadline: Varies

SMART Scholarship for Service Program ²¹

The SMART Scholarship-for-Service Program is a comprehensive educational and workforce development initiative for STEM students. It provides scholarships for those pursuing STEM degrees at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels. Awardees benefit from full tuition coverage, annual stipends, internships, and assured employment with the Department of Defense upon graduation.

Award/Amount: Varies
Deadline: December 1, annually

Careers and Salary Outlook for Robotics Master’s Graduates

A futuristic course that can assure a promising career and good pay. Earlier, one did not even fathom that there would say something like M.S. Robotics Online and that the study of or creating of machines would be a prosperous career. But the present is all about the broad technology landscape and its many benefits. Based on information from PayScale, here is information on professions, job responsibilities, and average salaries for graduating with an Online Master’s in Robotics:

Job Title	Median Annual Salary	Job growth (2022-32)	Job Description
Robotics Engineer ²²	$93,259	No Data Available	As part of their responsibility, Robotics Engineer has to design and maintain Robot and their electronic systems
Embedded Engineer ²³	$77,721	No Data Available	Embedded Engineer as part of their responsibility, design, and program the functions of dedicated computer chips and systems
Sales Engineer ²⁴	$76,781	No Data Available	As part of the Sales Engineer duties – they are required to have a good understanding of robotics, and concerning the overall company revenue, they have to plan out ways to increase profits.

Certifications and Licensing for Robotics Graduates

Certifications and licensing are designed to supplement educational and validation needs in case of any organizational requirements or if one wants to advance their career with individual service offerings. Robotics certification adds credentials to already existing professional experience or academics. Below is a list of available certifications individuals can pick to accentuate their skills:

RPA Specialist Certification ²⁵

A Certified RPA Specialist possesses knowledge in robotic process automation, encompassing RPA bots, design practices, business automation models, and additional insights into integrating RPA solutions with artificial intelligence systems for the creation of intelligent automation environments.

A3 Certified Robot Integrator ²⁶

This certification ensures that Robot Integrators who have completed the program possess a very high level of capabilities to deliver safe, reliable robotic products, systems, and services.

FANUC Certification ²⁷

FANUC America, in collaboration with NOCTI, has designed nationally recognized certification programs comprising two levels of FANUC Certified Robot Operator (FCR-O1 & FCR-O2) and two levels of FANUC Certified Technician (FCR-T1 & FCR-T2). These certifications indicate the respective operator and technician’s skills and knowledge levels. The programs are tailored to emphasize essential skills required for student and adult education programs.

Additional Resources for Robotics Professionals

Associations, communities, and exhibitions are excellent conduits for connecting seekers with larger audiences or peers for global networking. Many individuals interested in sharing thoughts about their study area, especially beginners seeking mentors and career guidance after completing an online master’s in robotics, find value in groups of like-minded individuals discussing the transformed future and robotics updates. Here are some organizations and associations that can be valuable for robotics students:

Robotic Industries Association ²⁸

The Robotic Industries Association (RIA) drives innovation, growth, and safety in manufacturing and service industries through education, promotion, and advancement of robotics, related automation technologies, and companies delivering integrated solutions.

IEEE Robotics & Automation Society ²⁹

The IEEE Robotics and Automation Society’s objectives are scientific, literary, and educational in character. The Society strives for the advancement of the theory and practice of robotics and automation engineering and science and the allied arts and sciences, and the maintenance of high professional standards among its members, all following the Constitution and Bylaws of the IEEE and with particular attention to such aims within the Field of Interest of the Society.

Robotics Society of Southern California ³⁰

The Robotics Society of South Carolina is dedicated to fostering and advancing the field of robotics and related technologies. It offers an engaging and enjoyable platform for individuals of diverse ages and backgrounds, from beginners to seasoned experts, to come together and share knowledge, information, and ideas.

FAQs About Online Master’s in Robotics Programs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Robotic Engineering all about?

Robotic engineering involves the designing, operating, and applying robots, involving the integration of principles from electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and computer science. It aims to develop intelligent machines capable of autonomous task execution or guided by human input. This multidisciplinary field is crucial in manufacturing, healthcare, and exploration industries.