Frequently Asked Questions
What is Autonomy and Robotics?
Broadly speaking it is the integrative science of systems that can independently operate in unstructured environments to achieve complex physically defined goals. These systems are usually formed by the integration of computational, perceptive, and physical subsystems that interoperate so that the overall autonomous system or robot can carry out technically sophisticated tasks. Subsystems frequently need to be co-designed due to the required tight coupling between them, and therefore expertise and capability is needed which crosses traditional engineering disciplinary boundaries.
What careers or fields can I pursue with this degree?
There are a variety of careers that can be pursued with this degree. Examples of target industries include:
- self-driving cars
- fulfillment and delivery systems
- home robotics and automation
- rehabilitation and prosthetic robotics
- drones and UAVs
- agricultural robotics
- digital manufacturing
- construction autonomy
- marine autonomy
- embedded software systems
- computer vision for autonomous systems
- walking and limbed robots
- personalized airborne transportation
What are some examples of projects that I may work on while I complete the degree?
Projects will be drawn from a range of industries related to the curriculum. In our capstone project course, students integrate advanced technical knowledge and tackle real-world challenges for industry clients. Students gain valuable project experience with the processes that engineers must master in a professional environment. Students enrolled in this course work either independently or in an assigned team to accomplish the project goals as identified by the industry client.
How will students choose courses?
Students will work closely with academic and faculty advisors to select courses based on their preferred track.
What are ideal areas of expertise/undergraduate majors for this degree?
As a multi-disciplinary program, there are several undergraduate majors that would be a good fit, including but not limited to Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Systems Engineering and Design. Please review the curriculum for this program. This will outline the required coursework as well as elective options. Click on these individual courses to see what prerequisites or foundational courses are generally required.