Robotics and Autonomous Systems
MSc
This multidisciplinary program adapts to emerging industry trends and bridges knowledge gaps in the field of robotics and autonomous systems. It will teach you key knowledge and skills to thrive in this progressive sector of engineering.
Location: Aston University, Birmingham
Course type
Full-time
Entry requirements
Duration
One year
Start date
Course overview
The UK Government has identified Robotics and Autonomous Systems (RAS) as one of the 8 Great Technologies that support UK industrial strategy. Robotics and autonomous system technologies and industries are growing fast along with the development of artificial intelligence. The way we manufacture, travel, live, work and play is being revolutionised as evidenced by the advent of Industry 4.0 and autonomous driving.
We have developed this MSc course to meet the demand for the corresponding engineering professionals and to maintain UK’s leading position in the sector. RAS involves smart sensors and control systems, power electronics and electric drives, vehicle automation and connectivity, robot software, applied industrial robotics, autonomous system design, machine learning and much more.
Designed in collaboration with The Greater Birmingham & Solihull Institute of Technology this course will help you understand and develop in the promising field of robotics and autonomous systems.
Course description
Facilities
Aston University invests in state-of-the-art facilities, providing you with the essential tools for your academic journey. Our facilities and equipment have been designed to enhance your learning and allow you to conceive, design, implement, and operate device prototypes, giving you the skills and knowledge needed for a rewarding career in robotics and autonomous systems. During your study, you will have access to cutting-edge laboratory facilities such as Sawyer and Universal robot, Kinova robotic arm and gripper, Auto-Pod autonomous car, Jackal UGV, Turtlebot3, DJI drone, unmanned surface vehicle and other equipment.
Following a multi-million pound investment, we are now home to extensive engineering facilities. From an entire engineering model shop and exclusive Maker Lab to specialist computer labs and more. You will also have access to the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Institute of Technology located on our campus, this powerhouse for advanced manufacturing and engineering and is home to a Cyber-Physical Manufacturing Rig.
Course objectives
- Bridge the multidisciplinary knowledge gap required by modern industry through covering topics such as electrical, electronic, computer science and mechatronic engineering as applied to robotics and autonomous systems.
- Provide the skills required to analyse industrial problems and propose and critique innovative solutions by using robotics and autonomous system engineering techniques underpinned by engineering principles.
- Provide the opportunity to practice professional planning and communication with a large audience.
- Enable students to use state-of-the-art engineering tools to identify and integrate actuators, sensors and controls, predict system performance and design components and subsystems within the context of robotics and autonomous system engineering.
Modules
Modules and learning outcomes
Taught stage modules
In the taught stage, you will study the following core module:
Module Title | Credits |
Robot Software | 15 |
Smart Sensors and Control Systems | 15 |
Autonomous System Design | 30 |
Applied Industrial Robotics | 15 |
Machine Learning | 15 |
Vehicle Automation and Connectivity | 15 |
Aston Global Advantage | 15 |
Total | 120 |
Dissertation stage modules
Module Title | Credits |
Dissertation | 60 |
Total | 180 |
Programme outcomes
On successful completion of both the taught and dissertation stage, you will be able to:
- Propose solutions to the future challenges in the field of robotics and autonomous systems by utilizing the major concepts of mathematics, physics and engineering.
- Evaluate typical multi-physics engineering problems by employing a range of sensing, control and automation techniques.
- Formulate strategies for predicting the performance of industrial system using latest software and hardware tools to tackle the challenges in the field of robotics and autonomous systems.
- Evaluate the requirements of commercial and industrial problems identifying user needs, business needs, environmental regulations and industry standards, and implied ethics and social issues.
- Design advanced robotic and autonomous systems for wide range of industries such as manufacturing, transport and biomedical.
- Work effectively within a team, practicing personal responsibility as a contributing team member or leader, work effectively with non-technical teams and communicate with wider audiences.
- Critically evaluate techniques and technologies from diverse industrial sectors and select appropriate methodologies to synthesis creative solutions to industrial problems by using robotics and autonomous system engineering techniques.
Entry requirements
Bachelors in Engineering in any of the following fields: Mechanical, Mechatronics, Electrical, Electronic, Control, Manufacturing Engineering and Computer Sciences or related disciplines with a qualification equivalent to UK 2:2 or higher.
You will need to have obtained a second-class Honours Degree from a UK academic organisation or an equivalent overseas degree recognised by Aston University. You must also provide two professional references – at least one must be from an academic referee, and a completed application form.
We recognise the value of extensive professional experience. If you do not have the academic qualifications but have extensive and relevant professional experience and a proven ability to succeed, we would welcome your application.
The information contained on this website details the typical entry requirements for this course for the most commonly offered qualifications. Applicants with alternative qualifications may wish to enquire with the relevant admissions teams prior to application whether or not their qualifications are deemed acceptable. For less commonly encountered qualifications this will be judged on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the academic admissions tutor.
See international student information below for international equivalent information.
International students
Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students on many of our undergraduate programmes. Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year. Based in the centre of Birmingham, Aston is not only a great place to study, it’s also a great place to live.
Qualifications in your country
For details of equivalent qualifications in your country, use our area pages below:
- Africa
- Americas
- Australia
- North East Asia
- Europe
- Middle East and North Africa
- South Asia
- South East Asia
- Western and Central Asia
English language requirements
Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification.
How to apply
Aston University provides a range of opportunities for international students to join our community and study on our campus. A key part of our strategy is our relationships with teaching partners, providing multiple pathways to Aston.
Aston’s professional work placements can improve your chance of securing a graduate job. Placements give you experience, confidence and opportunities and, as an Aston student, you’ll be better prepared for your future career. One of the great things about Aston is our focus on employability. Our close links with businesses, industries and professions make this possible.
Post-study work visa
Aston University welcomed the creation of a new Graduate Immigration Route which enables international students to remain in the UK for two years after you complete your studies to find work. This new post-study work visa applies to international students completing full-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
Pathway Programmes
If you don’t meet our entry requirements, we have a range of pathway programmes offered by our partner, ONCAMPUS Aston, which you can complete to progress onto one of our degrees.
Masters Foundation programmes
If you don’t meet our entry requirements, we have a range of pathway programmes offered by our partner, ONCAMPUS Aston, which you can complete to progress onto one of our degrees.
Fees and scholarships
Course fees
UK students
(2024/25)
Annual tuition fees: | £11,150 |
International students
(2024/25)
Annual tuition fees: | £21,500 |
More information on fees
The United Kingdom government has confirmed that European Union (EU), other European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss nationals commencing academic courses in England from August 2021 will no longer be charged the same tuition rates as UK students.
Tuition fees for students are reviewed annually and may increase in subsequent years in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI) to take account of the University’s increased costs of delivering the Programme. Any such increase shall always be in accordance with the law. When undertaking a placement year, a placement year fee applies.