Robotics & Autonomous Systems MSc

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 course in order to meet the demand for the corresponding engineering professionals and to maintain UK’s leading position in the sector. As a typical multidisciplinary scientific and technological domain of implementing and applying complex systems with cognitive capabilities, 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.

Empowered by world-class research and flourishing links to the wider region, the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences at Aston University is an open and engaged hub of such interdisciplinary expertise. 

What you’ll learn

We’ll teach you the relevant knowledge and skills needed to thrive in this sector and you’ll develop your ability to propose solutions to future challenges in robotics and autonomous systems by utilizing the major concepts of mathematics, physics and engineering. You will have access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities such as Sawyer and Universal robots, Auto-Pod autonomous cars, Turtlebot3, DJI drones, unmanned surface vehicles and other equipment.

With an emphasis on hands-on experience, you’ll have the opportunity to integrate your knowledge and develop an autonomous system from scratch by a CDIO (Conceive-Design-Implement-Operate) approach through the core module of Autonomous System Design. The transferrable skills you learn through the course will prepare you for future challenges as you develop your career.

Core Modules

• Robot Software
• Smart Sensors and Control Systems
• Autonomous System Design
• Applied Industrial Robotics 
• Research Project
• Dissertation on Robotics and Autonomous Systems
• Power Electronics and Electrical Drives

Optional Modules

• Vehicle Automation and Connectivity 
• Machine Learning

If you have any questions about the application process please get in touch with our postgraduate admissions team:

Email: pgadmissions@aston.ac.uk

Call: 0121 204 3200 (Please note this line is open Monday-Friday between 10am-4pm)

Please click here for guidance on completing the postgraduate application. 

• We expect applications from graduates of 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.
   
• Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification. Please find out more about our English language requirements. For more information about qualifications view our Aston in your country webpage.

The information 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. Less commonly encountered qualifications will be judged on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the academic admissions tutor.

Learning will include lectures, seminars and tutorials, as well as practical projects and presentations. 

You’ll work on your own and as part of a team on projects and presentations. The different projects will enable you to develop your communication and team working skills alongside your technical expertise, which is important as you enter the workplace.

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. 

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, the GBSIoT is a powerhouse for advanced manufacturing and engineering and is home to a Cyber-Physical Manufacturing Rig.

The course will be assessed through a combination of exams, coursework and practicals.

Programme Director: Jian Wan

Tuition fees 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. When undertaking a placement year a placement year fee applies.

UK postgraduate loans available 

If you’re starting a masters course on or after 1 August 2022, you can apply for a postgraduate loan of up to £11,570 to help with course fees and living costs. Find out more.

Scholarships

At Aston University we are committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs. Find out more about our UK student scholarships here. Find out more about our international student scholarships here.

Cost shouldn't limit your career aspirations, which is why we are delighted to offer all Aston University graduates (including exchange students) a 20% loyalty scholarship in standard taught MA, MSc and Full-time MBA course fees. As an Aston University graduate, you will automatically qualify. For more information visit our webpage.

Why study Robotics and Autonomous Systems at Aston?

Robotics and autonomous technologies and industries are growing fast along with embedded artificial intelligence. They are revolutionizing the way we manufacture, travel, live, work and play as evidenced by the advent of Industry 4.0 and autonomous driving. 

This course adapts to emerging industry trends and focus on hands-on experience in the field of robotics and autonomous systems. You will graduate with the upgraded skills to develop your career further with many employment opportunities in emerging industries concerning autonomous driving, drones, industrial robots and others. 
 

What will I be doing on the Robotics and Autonomous Systems course at Aston?

You’ll learn key knowledge and skills on robotics and autonomous systems in a range of ways, with a focus on hands-on experience and practical solutions to technological problems. You will have the opportunity to integrate your knowledge and develop an autonomous system from scratch by a CDIO (Conceive-Design-Implement-Operate) approach. The transferrable skills you learn through the course will prepare you for future challenges as you develop your career.