Program Overview

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Program Overview

The Master of Science in Robotics and Autonomous Systems (Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering) is a multidisciplinary program that emphasizes robotics, controls, autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, and related fields. This concentration is suitable for students who wish to focus on applications in mechanical or aerospace engineering.

Program Details

• Degree Awarded: MS in Robotics and Autonomous Systems (Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering)
• STEM-OPT Extension Eligible: Yes, this program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months for international students on F-1 visas.

At a Glance

• College/School: Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering
• Location: Tempe
• STEM-OPT Extension Eligible: Yes

Accelerated Program Options

This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years. Accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree programs are designed for high-achieving students who want the opportunity to share undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of their master's degree. These programs feature the same high-quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty.

Available Accelerated Programs

• Aerospace Engineering (Aeronautics), BSE
• Aerospace Engineering (Astronautics), BSE
• Aerospace Engineering (Autonomous Vehicle Systems), BSE
• Mechanical Engineering, BSE

Degree Requirements

• 30 credit hours and a portfolio, or
• 30 credit hours and a thesis, or
• 30 credit hours including the required applied project course (MAE 593)

Required Core

• MAE 501 Linear Algebra in Engineering (3) or RAS 501 Applied Linear Algebra for Engineers (3)
• MAE 547 Modeling and Control of Robots (3) or RAS 545 Robotic Systems I (3)

Concentration

• 6 credit hours

Electives or Research

• 12-18 credit hours

Culminating Experience

• MAE 593 Applied Project (3)
• MAE 599 Thesis (6)
• Portfolio (0)

Admission Requirements

• General University Admission Requirements: All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
• Applicants must have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering, science, mathematics, or a related field from a regionally accredited institution.
• Minimum Cumulative GPA: 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

Additional Application Information

• An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

Tuition Information

When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.

Application Deadlines

• Fall: Priority deadline is December 31
• Spring: Priority deadline is August 15

Career Opportunities

Robotics engineers are in high demand in various engineering specialty areas, such as manufacturing, mechanical, aerospace, biomedical-rehabilitation, autonomous vehicle, and AI engineering. Skills in the design and control of robotic systems, AI, machine learning, and robot perception are valuable to consumer, automotive, aerospace, and defense industries.

Career Examples

• Automation engineer
• Machine learning and AI engineer
• Robotics engineer
• Systems engineer

Additional Information

• What are accelerated programs? Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.
• What are concurrent programs? Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees, and receive two diplomas.
• What are joint programs? Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units.
• What constitutes a new program? ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently.
• What are online programs? ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year.
• What is WRGP (Western Regional Graduate Program)? The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides a reduced tuition rate to non-resident graduate students who qualify.