Robotics and autonomous systems (systems engineering), MS
Program description
This advanced degree develops system-level expertise in robotics and autonomous systems. The systems engineering concentration trains students to model, analyze, optimize and manage complex mechatronic and robotic challenges.
ASU’s master’s program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience in designing and controlling robotic platforms. These interdisciplinary technologies are increasingly important in manufacturing, transportation, aerospace, defense and healthcare.
The program covers robotics, controls, AI, mechatronics, soft robotics, medical robotics, additive manufacturing and automation. Robots, such as autonomous vehicles, manufacturing robots, drones and surgical systems, are growing rapidly, creating strong demand for experts in AI, machine learning, control systems and related fields.
Career outlook
Graduates of the master’s degree robotics and autonomous systems find roles in corporations, government agencies and startups. They gain hands-on experience in advanced labs and deepen their knowledge of machine learning, AI, human-robot interaction and adaptive control.
Career options include automation engineer, controls engineer, machine learning engineer, robotics engineer and systems engineer. Many graduates lead research teams developing advanced manufacturing technologies and enjoy strong job prospects with competitive salaries.
Estimated salary range: $90,000-$120,000/year.
Applicants must meet the following admission requirements:
- Minimum of an earned U.S. bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution or the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree from an international institution that is officially recognized by that country in engineering, physical sciences, mathematics or a similar field.
- Students applying to the systems engineering concentration are expected to possess basic knowledge in key relevant areas, e.g. feedback and controls, embedded systems, programming (preferably C or similar language, MATLAB-Simulink-toolboxes) and dynamics or similar topics. See program handbook for listing of recommended academic preparation prior to admission (page 9).
- Minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.0=A) in the last 60 hours of a student’s first bachelor’s degree program.
- Minimum of 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.0 = A) in the applicable master’s degree.
- If the applicant does not meet the minimum GPA requirements, the application may still be considered. In certain cases, demonstrated aptitude through professional experience or additional post baccalaureate education will be considered.
- An online graduate admission application, including upload of unofficial transcript(s), personal statement and resume.
- Official transcripts from each college or university attended.
- GRE is not required for this program.
- Submit a professional resume and personal statement as part of the online admissions application.
- International applicants must also meet the English proficiency requirements, as defined by Graduate Admissions. Please be sure to review the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE score requirements, as your application will not be processed without valid proof of English proficiency.
Curriculum overview
The 30 credit hours must include 2 required core courses (6 credit hours) and 2 concentration courses (6 credit hours) from a focus area of interest. The remaining courses can be taken in the form of electives, in which students can choose from the approved elective list.
- EGR501 Applied Linear Algebra for Engineers
- RAS545 Robotic Systems I
EGR 550 Mechatronic Systems and one of the following:
- RAS546 Robotic Systems II
- RAS557 Foldable Robotics
- RAS598 Machine Learning and AI
- RAS 598 Experimentation and Deployment of Robotic Systems
- EGR520 Engineering Analysis I
- EGR555 Mechatronics Device Innovation
- EGR560 Vehicle Dynamics and Control
- EGR598 Topic: System Control and Optimization
- EGR598 Topic: Zero Emissions Vehicles
- EGR598 Topic: Transforms and Systems Modeling
- EGR598 Topic: Mechanical Engineering Systems
- EGR598 Topic: Power Electronic Converters and Systems
- EGR608 Adv Simulation
- EGR611 Complex Engineering Systems
- IEE576 Network Optimization and Algorithms
- SER594 Software Engineering for Machine Learning
- SES598 Autonomous Exploration Systems
Courses not counted as concentration classes can be taken as electives that fall in emphasis areas. Students can take any of the concentration courses listed in the handbook as electives, or select electives from this list. Be sure to check the handbook and the linked elective list often for updates.
Elective #1
- RAS 546 Robotic Systems II
- RAS 557 Foldable Robotics
- RAS 598 Experimentation & Deployment of Robotic Systems
- MFG 598 Additive Manufacturing
- MFG 598 Micro/Nano Additive Manufacturing
- MFG 598 Multiphysics Digital Twins for Adv Mfg Processes
- EGR 555 Mechatronics Device Innovation
- AMT 570 Unmanned Aerial Systems
- SES 598 Autonomous Exploration Systems
Elective # 2
- MFG 598 Engineering Computing with Python
- MFG 598 CNC Computer Programming
- MFG 598 Programming of Industrial Robotics System
- EGR 598 System Control and Optimization
- EGR 611 Complex Engineering Systems
- EEE 587 Optimal Control
- EEE 591 Foundations of Machine Learning: from Theory to Practice
Elective # 3
- RAS 557 Foldable Robotics
- RAS 598 Machine Learning and A.I.
- MFG 598 Engineering Computing with Python
- MFG 598 Industrial Ultrasonic Testing
- MFG 598 AI in Additive Manufacturing
- MFG 598 Nondestructive Testing
- APM 598 Introduction to Deep Neural Networks
- EEE 598 Machine Learning
- MAE 551 Applied Machine Learning for Mechanical and Aerospace Engineers
Select one culminating experience:
- Portfolio
- RAS593 Applied Project (3)
- RAS599 Thesis (6)
See the program handbook or Advising for details.
Degree requirements
The MS in Robotics and Autonomous Systems with a concentration in Systems Engineering requires a minimum of 30 credit hours. These credit hours must reflect one of the following options:
- 30 credit hours and a portfolio, or
- 30 credit hours including the required Applied Project course (RAS 593), or
- 30 credit hours including the required Thesis course (RAS 599) and a thesis
Review the MS Robotics and Autonomous Systems degree requirements and coursework in the program handbook for additional information.
Application priority deadlines
August 15 Spring semester (January)
December 31 Fall semester (August)
These are priority deadlines. Applications received after this date may still be considered but are not guaranteed to be evaluated for the semester of application.
Accelerated master’s
Finish two degrees faster by combining advanced undergraduate and graduate coursework during your senior year as part of the accelerated master’s program.