The 11 Best Degrees in Robotics for 2026 (Expert Picks)

Degrees in robotics are opening doors to a faster expanding field, with mechanical engineers (including robotics engineers) forecast to grow at a rate of 9 percent from 2024 to 2034. The total median pay stands at $142,000. You have multiple pathways to enter this field through bachelor’s, master’s, PhD, and associate programs. The options are plentiful whether you’re seeking a traditional robotics degree or learning about a robotics degree online. This guide breaks down the 11 best robotics programs for 2026 and covers everything from curriculum details to career opportunities and top schools.

Bachelor of Science in Robotics Engineering

Program Overview and What You’ll Learn

A Bachelor of Science in Robotics Engineering merges computer, electrical, mechanical, sensing, and computer science disciplines into real-life applications. The curriculum prepares you to design, build, and integrate intelligent robotic systems through hands-on laboratory experience. Universities like University of Hartford feature dedicated robotics labs within their engineering facilities. You get practical experience with robotics principles, designs, and operations there.

The program spans 120 to 126 credits across four years. Core coursework has robot design and mechanics, kinematics, dynamics, mechanical structures, sensor integration, embedded systems programming, control algorithms, and machine vision. You’ll develop skills in digital hardware design, software programming, and circuit design analysis. Advanced topics cover artificial intelligence applications and machine learning for robotics. You’ll also study autonomous system development.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Graduates enter diverse roles in multiple sectors. Manufacturing engineers, robotics automation specialists, robotics software developers, and mechatronics technologists represent common career paths. The median income for robotics engineers stands at $118,079. Entry-level positions start around $60,093 and experienced professionals earn up to $198,362.

Entry-level robotics roles average $66,000 a year, while intermediate positions reach $105,000. Carnegie Mellon reports 95% of graduates employed or in graduate school within six months, with an average starting salary of $108,744. The sector projects 180,341 jobs by 2029, reflecting a 3.81% growth rate.

Admission Requirements and Prerequisites

Most programs need a high school diploma with strong STEM coursework. Purdue recommends four years of mathematics and English. You’ll also need three years of laboratory science and social studies, plus two years of world language. Some institutions need SAT or ACT scores, along with a resume and letter of intent.

Accelerated BS/MS programs need a cumulative GPA of 3.3 and completion of 80.0 credits before advancing to graduate-level work. University of Michigan-Dearborn’s 4+1 option needs a 3.2 GPA and completion of two 300-level courses with a B minimum.

Average Tuition Costs

Tuition varies by a lot between institutions:

Public universities average $9,637 a year for in-state students. Out-of-state tuition averages $27,592, and private institutions average $41,261.

Top Schools Offering This Degree

Leading programs are at Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute, MIT’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Stanford University, Georgia Institute of Technology, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, and University of Pennsylvania. West Virginia University emphasizes competition teams and industrial capstone projects that partner students with companies to solve real-life problems.

Online and Hybrid Options

University of Advancing Technology offers online robotics degrees at $722 per credit hour with five-week intensive courses and nine annual start dates. Kansas State University provides programs that are online at $351 per credit hour. These feature collaborative robots and Tesla V100 processors for AI simulations. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University charges $1,767 per credit hour for uncrewed and autonomous systems specializations.

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering with Robotics Concentration

Program Overview and What You’ll Learn

You can pursue robotics through a mechanical engineering foundation with a dedicated robotics concentration. This path provides extensive mechanical engineering training and specializes in robotic systems. George Washington University’s curriculum emphasizes robotic mechanisms design, analysis and integration, kinematics, dynamics and control of robots, mechatronics design, sensing and actuation, microprocessors for robotic systems, robotic haptics, and artificial intelligence topics.

University of Hartford structures this concentration within 132 credits, with 83 credits in the major. You’ll work in project-based environments and learn to program and operate robots and autonomous vehicles. The program focuses on robot design understanding, modeling dynamic control systems, and interfacing subsystems with sensors, actuators and controllers. Georgia Tech’s automation and robotic systems concentration requires courses in machine design and control of dynamic systems. Electives include artificial intelligence, machine learning, modeling and control of motion systems, mechatronics and robotics.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Graduates move into roles as systems architectural managers, engineering managers and engineers in manufacturing, automotive, defense, biomedical devices and aerospace sectors. Mechanical engineers with robotics expertise earn a median annual wage of $99,510. The interdisciplinary foundation positions you for employment in large corporations, government agencies and small businesses. Automation engineers and robotics engineers earn median salaries of $117,750.

Admission Requirements and Prerequisites

Grand Canyon University requires applicants to be 16+ years old and hold a high school diploma. They must maintain a 3.0+ unweighted GPA or 2.5+ unweighted GPA with ACT scores of 19 or SAT scores of 1000. Georgia Tech mandates a minimum grade of C in major requirements and a 2.0 GPA within specific courses. Programs require strong mathematics, science and English preparation throughout high school.

Average Tuition Costs

Top Schools Offering This Degree

George Washington University offers an ABET-accredited mechanical engineering program with robotics option. University of Hartford provides six formalized concentrations including robotics. Georgia Institute of Technology features automation and robotic systems specialization. Worcester Polytechnic Institute integrates computer science into robotics coursework with state-of-the-art labs for AI and bionics. University of Michigan launched its undergraduate robotics major in 2022 with interdisciplinary coursework.

Online and Hybrid Options

Johns Hopkins Engineering for Professionals offers a master’s in Robotics and Autonomous Systems that is online. 78% of enrolled students receive employer tuition contribution. Worcester Polytechnic Institute provides online robotics engineering degrees that require backgrounds in computer, electrical or mechanical engineering with a 3.0 GPA minimum.

Bachelor of Science in Mechatronics Engineering

Program Overview and What You’ll Learn

Mechatronics engineering fuses mechanical and electrical systems with computer and control engineering into a unified discipline. Capitol Technology’s 122-credit program integrates robotics and cybersecurity and prepares you to bridge technicians and engineers. The curriculum addresses Internet of Things sensor communication, big data analytics, and engineering simulation with virtual reality. You’ll also study additive manufacturing and artificial intelligence for automated decision making. The program covers electric circuits, 2D and 3D forces on static systems, and control software for electrical and mechanical systems. Computer-aided design tools are part of the curriculum. Morgan State requires 120 credits distributed in general education (45), mathematics and science (16), mechatronics core (41), and electives (18).

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Median salaries reach $118,755 according to Glassdoor, while the New York region reports $119,000 per year. Starting positions begin at $65,000, and most exceed $80,000. Career options span robotics technician, telecommunications engineer, and agricultural systems designer. You can also work as an instrumentation designer, industrial automation specialist, or electronics engineer.

Admission Requirements and Prerequisites

SIUE requires a 2.6 high school GPA or 2.0 GPA with 990 SAT/19 ACT scores. Kent State mandates 3.0 high school GPA with calculus placement eligibility. Transfer students need 3.0 GPA minimum with C grades in calculus and physics.

Average Tuition Costs

Capitol Technology rates apply for 2025-2027 academic years.

Top Schools Offering This Degree

Carnegie Mellon, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, and Morgan State University offer ABET-accredited programs. Capitol Technology University, ECPI University, Vaughn College, and Kent State University also provide accredited options.

Online and Hybrid Options

ECPI University provides online ABET-accredited programs that complete in 2.5 years. Atlantic Technological University and University of Southern Queensland offer part-time online bachelor’s degrees.

Bachelor of Applied Science in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence

Program Overview and What You’ll Learn

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence emphasizes hands-on learning with real-life manufacturing applications. Edmonds College’s BAS-ROBAI program gives you the skills to design, implement, and maintain advanced manufacturing systems that use robotics, interconnected sensors, and data analytics for production optimization. The curriculum covers mechatronics design, language and speech technology, AI applications for machine learning, and autonomous systems.

Houston Community College’s Bachelor of Applied Technology incorporates courses developed by Nvidia, Amazon Web Services, Intel, Apple, and IBM. You’ll work in world-class AI laboratories on coordinated challenges and hands-on projects with mentor supervision from industry professionals. Saint Leo University’s 120-credit program has embedded system design, electronics system design, fundamentals of mechanical systems, robotics system design, applications of artificial intelligence in intelligent robotics, and machine learning and intelligent systems.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Graduates qualify for entry-level positions in machine learning, computer vision, natural language processing, business intelligence, customer support automation, recommendation systems, sales and product support information systems, internal automation projects, healthcare support automation, data analytics, IIOT/Robotics, and cybersecurity. The fields show strong employment growth in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina, with rates that exceed national averages.

Admission Requirements and Prerequisites

Edmonds College requires completion of Math 141 or higher, English 101, and CS 115 or equivalent, all with grades of 2.5 or higher. You need a minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA. Houston Community College requires an Associate of Applied Science degree in Artificial Intelligence with a cumulative GPA of 2.5. Students with associate degrees in cybersecurity, cloud computing, programming, networking, or systems administration must complete nine AI and machine learning prerequisite courses.

Average Tuition Costs

Top Schools Offering This Degree

Edmonds College in Washington State offers the BAS-ROBAI with cohorts that start annually in fall quarter. Houston Community College provides the Bachelor of Applied Technology in Artificial Intelligence & Robotics. Saint Leo University offers a full-time campus program.

Online and Hybrid Options

Most Bachelor of Applied Science programs in robotics and artificial intelligence operate as on-campus programs due to the hands-on laboratory requirements. Hybrid options may incorporate online coursework for theoretical components while maintaining in-person laboratory sessions.

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering with Robotics Focus

Program Overview and What You’ll Learn

Electrical engineering degrees with robotics focus build on circuit design, signal processing, and control systems foundations. RIT’s robotics option trains you in advanced programming, design of robotic systems, kinematics and dynamics of robotics manipulators, mobile robots, intelligent robots, autonomous robots, localization and mapping, and artificial intelligence. Arizona State University’s electrical engineering concentration emphasizes control systems theory and implementation, signal processing, up-to-the-minute and embedded systems, computer vision, and machine learning. You’ll work with sensing, data processing, adaptive control, and automated mobility. Applications span public safety, manufacturing, healthcare, automotive, and assistive technologies, with a focus on human-machine interaction.

Georgia Tech requires ECE 4550 Control System Design and ECE 3550 Feedback Control Systems, plus electives in signals and systems, optimization, automation and robotics, or computational computer vision. NC State’s controls and robotics concentration builds foundation through linear algebra, introductory control systems, and advanced digital control systems. Electives cover machine learning, deep learning, industrial robot systems, and mechatronics.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Graduates qualify as electrical engineers, electronics engineers, mechatronics engineers, control and valve installers, electro-mechanical technicians, instrument technicians, radio frequency identification device specialists, and sales engineers. Entry-level robotics roles average $66,000 annually.

Admission Requirements and Prerequisites

Programs require bachelor’s or master’s degrees in engineering, science, mathematics, or related fields with 3.0 minimum GPA. Prerequisites include calculus through multivariable calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, and programming in C++, Java, Matlab, or Python. International students need additional documentation.

Average Tuition Costs

Top Schools Offering This Degree

Leading programs include RIT, Arizona State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, NC State University, and UC Merced.

Online and Hybrid Options

Bradley University offers online electrical engineering with robotics electives. These cover autonomous robotics systems, mobile robots, and industrial automation cyber-physical systems security.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with Robotics Specialization

Program Overview and What You’ll Learn

Computer science programs with robotics specializations approach the field from a computational and algorithmic viewpoint. Carnegie Mellon’s Bachelor of Science in Robotics, housed within the School of Computer Science, emphasizes problem solving and systems thinking while you become skilled at core computer science concepts including data structures and programming. You’ll learn to use robotics to solve ground problems, from autonomous vehicles to assistive healthcare robots.

University of Delaware’s concentration in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics trains you to design computational solutions, apply theoretical foundations including automata theory and complexity theory, and use standard algorithms and data structures. The curriculum covers abstract notions of intelligence such as search, logical reasoning, knowledge representation, planning, and reasoning under uncertainty. Specific skills include pattern analysis methods, statistical learning approaches, supervised and unsupervised learning, reinforcement learning, neural networks, and algorithmic approaches to visual perception.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Graduates pursue roles as computer programmers, control engineers, robot software engineers, robot system engineers, and software developers. Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows that software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers earn $110,140 yearly on average. Computer hardware engineers command annual median pay of $119,560.

Admission Requirements and Prerequisites

Programs require a minimum cumulative 2.0 GPA in engineering-related coursework consisting of engineering, mathematics, and science courses. Prerequisites include completion of calculus sequences and science laboratory courses. Specific requirements vary by institution.

Average Tuition Costs

Robotics-related computer science programs cost $9,637 per year for in-state tuition, $27,592 for out-of-state, and $41,261 at private institutions.

Top Schools Offering This Degree

Carnegie Mellon University, University of Delaware, Tufts University, Oregon State University, and Colorado School of Mines offer resilient infrastructure programs.

Online and Hybrid Options

Georgia Tech offers online Computer Science specialization in Computational Perception and Robotics. Columbia University provides an online MS in Computer Science with Vision, Graphics, Interaction and Robotics concentration.

Master of Science in Robotics

Program Overview and What You’ll Learn

The Master of Science in Robotics takes your technical training deeper into autonomous systems in hardware and software domains. Two years is the standard duration, and you’ll need 30 to 40 credit hours depending on the institution. Carnegie Mellon structures its MSR program around core course requirements, elective courses and supervised research that culminates in a public thesis talk and document. Northwestern’s curriculum concentrates on building experience with implementation of both hardware and software systems through four quarters of enrollment.

Core coursework addresses mechanics, control, perception and artificial intelligence. You’ll work with algorithms, sensors, control systems and mechanisms that drive robotics functionality. Georgia Tech’s program has an Introduction to Robotics Research course that familiarizes you with mathematical and computational tools required in robotics research, along with a summer internship and two-semester capstone project. Purdue’s online option integrates control theory, machine learning and artificial intelligence.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Graduates pursue technical roles of all types. Software engineers earn between $69,000 and $116,000, averaging $91,123. Robotics engineers make $68,000 to $109,000, with an average of $88,925. Senior software engineers command higher ranges from $80,000 to $147,000, averaging $110,084. Data scientists earn more, ranging from $86,000 to $172,000 with an average of $129,802. Machine learning engineers represent the highest-paid category at $152,244 a year.

Admission Requirements and Prerequisites

A bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, physical science or applied mathematics with a minimum 3.0 GPA is what most programs require. Colorado School of Mines mandates GRE scores of 151 or higher on the quantitative section. Carnegie Mellon recommends 1 to 3 years of practical industry, government or research laboratory experience, though it remains optional. Prerequisites are two semesters of calculus, differential equations and data structures. TOEFL scores of 79 or higher, or IELTS scores of 6.5 or above are what international applicants need.

Average Tuition Costs

Top Schools Offering This Degree

Leading institutions are Carnegie Mellon University, Northwestern University, University of Michigan, Georgia Institute of Technology, Northeastern University, Boston University, Johns Hopkins University and Worcester Polytechnic Institute.

Online and Hybrid Options

Johns Hopkins offers a master’s in Robotics and Autonomous Systems that’s online. 78% of students receive employer tuition coverage. Purdue provides an online MS in Robotics focusing on analysis, control and design of robotic systems without career interruption. WPI’s online robotics engineering degree requires undergraduate backgrounds in relevant engineering fields with a 3.0 GPA minimum.

Master of Engineering in Robotics and Autonomous Systems

Program Overview and What You’ll Learn

Master of Engineering programs in Robotics and Autonomous Systems focus on industry needs and combine technical mastery with professional skills. They differ from thesis-driven MS degrees. The MEng curriculum at University of Cincinnati emphasizes advanced intelligent hardware devices and software that design sophisticated autonomous robotic devices. The program focuses on making these systems reliable, safe and secure. It infuses Industry 4.0 concepts like big data, sensors, AI/machine learning, additive manufacturing and cyber-security.

You’ll receive specialized training in computer science, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, systems engineering and project management. The MEng in Autonomy & Robotics at Illinois requires 32 credit hours. This comprises 16 hours of core coursework, 12 hours of electives and 4 hours of professional development through capstone projects. Core courses include Introduction to Robotics, Principles of Safe Autonomy and Autonomous Vehicle System Engineering. UCLA’s program spans three semesters and covers control systems, robot kinematics and dynamics, machine learning, and embedded cyber-physical systems.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Graduates enter roles as control systems engineers, senior systems engineers, IT managers, principal electrical engineers, aeronautical engineers and robotics design engineers. Other positions include software engineers, UX designers, data scientists, machine learning engineers, computer vision specialists and autonomous vehicle engineers. The global robotics market projects growth from $37.81 billion in 2017 to $158.21 billion by 2025 at a 19.11% compound annual growth rate. ASU reports estimated salary ranges between $90,000 and $120,000 per year.

Admission Requirements and Prerequisites

Cincinnati requires an engineering bachelor’s degree from an ABET-accredited institution with a 3.0 minimum GPA. The degree should preferably be in electrical, mechanical or robotics engineering. GRE scores become mandatory if your bachelor’s degree lacks ABET accreditation, your GPA falls below 3.0, or you’re an international student with a degree earned outside the United States. International applicants need TOEFL scores of 92 minimum or IELTS scores of 6.5 minimum. ASU requires basic knowledge in feedback and controls, embedded systems, programming (preferably C or MATLAB) and dynamics.

Average Tuition Costs

Top Schools Offering This Degree

Leading institutions include University of Cincinnati, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, UCLA Samueli School of Engineering, Johns Hopkins Engineering for Professionals and Arizona State University. Others are Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Duke University, University of Maryland and Boston University.

Online and Hybrid Options

Johns Hopkins offers a master’s in Robotics and Autonomous Systems that is fully online. University of Cincinnati provides MEng options that are fully online with distance learning fees applied. WPI pioneered the nation’s first online robotics engineering master’s degree and delivers courses via live and self-paced virtual sessions.

Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Engineering with Robotics Concentration

Program Overview and What You’ll Learn

Interdisciplinary engineering programs with robotics concentrations offer broader flexibility for professionals from a variety of technical backgrounds. Purdue’s online concentration spans analysis, control, and design of robots through fundamental theories and modeling techniques. The degree requires 30 credit hours total with at least 18 hours of Purdue graduate engineering courses. You’ll complete core courses that include Introduction to Robotic Systems, Industrial Robotics and Flexible Assembly, and Linear Algebra with Applications, totaling 9 credits.

Additional required coursework covers systems analysis, lumped system theory, or control systems theory, plus two electives from convex optimization, applied optimal control and estimation, artificial intelligence, optimization methods, modern automatic control, or digital control. WPI’s groundbreaking online program addresses mathematical and mechanical frameworks to design safer robotic systems. The program covers computer science, electrical and computer engineering, mathematics, and mechanical engineering fundamentals. Advanced topics include artificial intelligence and computer vision, along with wireless networking. The capstone experience makes it possible to solve practical workplace problems under faculty and industry mentorship.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Graduates find employment in national defense, factory automation, healthcare, consumer products, customized manufacturing, and interactive entertainment. Mechanical engineers earn $98,444, while mechatronics engineers make $100,358. Robotics automation engineers command $109,770. Robotics engineers earn $122,177, and software engineers receive $123,420. Computer hardware engineers make $120,459, and automation engineers earn $102,539. Professionals with master’s degrees earn 16% more than bachelor’s holders on average.

Admission Requirements and Prerequisites

Mathematics prerequisites include Calculus I, Calculus II, and either Linear Algebra or Differential Equations. WPI requires backgrounds in computer engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or robotics engineering with a 3.0 GPA.

Average Tuition Costs

Costs vary by institution and program type. University of Cincinnati applies distance learning fees plus non-resident fees to out-of-state students.

Top Schools Offering This Degree

Purdue University offers both residential and online options. Worcester Polytechnic Institute provides the nation’s first online robotics engineering master’s degree. Johns Hopkins Engineering for Professionals delivers programs online. University of Cincinnati offers Master of Engineering in Robotics and Intelligent Autonomous Systems online.

Online and Hybrid Options

Purdue’s online program features dedicated academic advisors and student success coaches that support enrollment through graduation. Students receive strong support that includes academic planning workshops and professional development opportunities. WPI delivers courses via live and self-paced virtual sessions that connect you with faculty, industry professionals, and peers globally.

PhD in Robotics

Program Overview and What You’ll Learn

PhD programs in robotics represent the terminal research degree and prepare you to conduct original independent research that advances the field. College Factual analyzed 3 schools handing out 61 doctoral degrees. The major ranks #152 in popularity among 306 majors. Georgia Tech’s program is the first multidisciplinary robotics doctorate, with Interactive Computing, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, and Aerospace Engineering schools. Programs require 5 to 6 years to complete. Coursework covers robot kinematics, statics, dynamics, machine learning fundamentals, and control systems.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Graduates pursue research scientist positions, tenure-track professorships, principal engineers at tech firms, and roles in government labs. These include DRDO, ISRO, and NASA. Entry positions in industrial R&D start at $100,000 to $140,000 per year.

Admission Requirements and Prerequisites

You need a bachelor’s degree with upper quarter class ranking and minimum 3.0 GPA. Stevens requires 3.5 minimum GPA and competitive GRE scores. Utah has no specific GRE requirements. International applicants need TOEFL scores of 100 minimum.

Average Tuition Costs

Most PhD students receive full funding packages that cover tuition, fees, and stipends throughout the program. University of Utah offers tuition benefits covering up to $32,000 per year at non-resident rates.

Top Schools Offering This Degree

Carnegie Mellon University, Georgia Institute of Technology, University of Michigan, Stevens Institute of Technology, Purdue University, and University of Utah lead PhD programs.

Online and Hybrid Options

PhD programs require on-campus research due to laboratory work and advisor collaboration requirements. This makes online options unavailable.

Associate Degree in Robotics Technology

Program Overview and What You’ll Learn

Two-year associate programs provide practical robotics skills through hands-on training. You’ll complete around 60 credits in semester programs or 90 credits in quarter systems. Curriculum includes network programming, microprocessors, microcomputers, technical computing, motor controls, programmable logic controllers, and industrial robotics covering pneumatics and hydraulics. Programs emphasize automated system maintenance and troubleshooting among CAD, electrical schematics, and manufacturing mathematics.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Graduates qualify for entry-level technician positions. These include robotics technician, automation technician, and manufacturing production technician roles. Average earnings reach $33,082. Median wages fall between $60,240 and $70,760 each year.

Admission Requirements and Prerequisites

You need a high school diploma or GED with a 2.0+ GPA. ACT scores of 16 or higher are required by most programs.

Average Tuition Costs

Top Schools Offering This Degree

Texas State Technical College, Oakland Community College, and Utah Valley University provide accredited programs. Indian Hills Community College and Ivy Tech Community College also offer quality options.

Online and Hybrid Options

Laboratory requirements mean most programs operate on campus. Some institutions offer hybrid formats that combine online coursework with in-person lab sessions.

Starting a Career

Your robotics career starts by choosing the right degree pathway for your goals and circumstances. You can pursue a specialized Bachelor of Science in Robotics Engineering, opt for a broader mechanical or electrical engineering foundation with robotics concentration, or advance through graduate programs. Each option opens doors to this industry expanding faster than most. The field offers strong earning potential and diverse specializations. You get flexibility through both campus-based and online formats. Pick the program that lines up with your technical interests, career timeline and budget. Then commit to building the hands-on skills that employers value most.