MEng Robotics, Autonomous and Interactive Systems

Program Overview

The MEng Robotics, Autonomous and Interactive Systems program at Heriot-Watt University combines electronics, computer science, and mechanics to prepare students for careers in robotics. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, industry collaboration, and research opportunities, equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge to create innovative robotic solutions in various fields, including manufacturing, healthcare, and research.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The MEng Robotics, Autonomous and Interactive Systems program at Heriot-Watt University is a multi-disciplined degree that brings together electronics, computer software, and mechanics to prepare students for careers in the rapidly growing field of robotics.

Objectives:

• Equip graduates with the technical skills and industry awareness to create an innovation pipeline from academic research to global markets in the field of robotics.
• Provide a strong foundation in the core disciplines of robotics, including electronics, computer science, and mechanical engineering.
• Offer opportunities for specialization in specific areas of robotics, such as autonomous vehicles, healthcare, and industrial manufacturing.
• Foster a "learning by doing" philosophy through hands-on projects and industry-standard equipment.
• Prepare graduates for successful careers in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and research.
• Praxis Electronic Design: Provides hands-on experience in designing and building electronic circuits.
• Software Development 1 & 2: Equips students with the programming skills needed to control robots and develop robotic software.
• Robotics group project: Introduces students to the principles of robotics through a group project focused on designing and building a robot.

Year 2:

• Builds upon the knowledge acquired in Year 1 and introduces more advanced topics in robotics, such as:
• Control systems
• Machine learning
• Computer vision
• Sensor technology
• Students may have the opportunity to choose elective courses based on their interests and career goals.

Year 3:

• Focuses on project work, giving students the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world problems.
• Students can choose from a variety of project topics, such as:
• Designing a robot for search and rescue
• Developing a robotic prosthetic limb
• Building a self-driving car

Year 4:

• Includes more advanced coursework and project work, focusing on emerging areas of robotics such as:
• Human-robot interaction
• Artificial intelligence
• Medical robotics
• Students may have the opportunity to complete an internship or research project in industry or academia.

Year 5:

• Consists of a major individual research project, allowing students to delve deeply into a specific area of robotics that interests them.
• The project culminates in a dissertation that demonstrates the student's ability to apply their knowledge and skills to solve a complex problem in the field of robotics.

Assessment:

The program uses a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Coursework: Individual assignments and projects that allow students to demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge and skills to specific problems.
• Group projects: Collaborative projects that require students to work together to design and build robots or solve robotic problems.
• Presentations: Opportunities for students to present their work to their peers and faculty.
• Individual research project: A major research project that assesses the student's ability to independently conduct research, analyze data, and communicate their findings.
The program also emphasizes formative assessment, which provides students with feedback on their progress throughout the course. This feedback can help students identify areas where they need to improve and ensure that they are on track to meet the learning outcomes of the program.

Teaching:

The program is taught by a team of experienced and research-active faculty members, who are experts in their respective fields. The faculty is committed to providing students with a high-quality education and a supportive learning environment. The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: Traditional lectures that introduce students to key concepts and theories.
• Tutorials: Smaller group sessions that allow students to ask questions and receive individualized attention.
• Laboratory sessions: Hands-on sessions that allow students to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world problems.
• Project work: Collaborative projects that require students to work together to design and build robots or solve robotic problems.
• Individual research project supervision: One-on-one guidance from a faculty member on the student's research project.

Careers:

Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in a variety of industries, including:

• Manufacturing: Designing, building, and operating robots used in manufacturing processes.
• Healthcare: Developing robots for use in surgery, rehabilitation, and assistive care.
• Research: Conducting research on new robotic technologies and applications.
• Education: Teaching robotics to students of all ages.
• Government: Working on policy and regulation related to robotics.
The program also prepares graduates for further study, such as a PhD in robotics.

Other:

• The program has strong links to industry, providing students with opportunities for internships, placements, and research collaborations.
• The program is based at the National Robotarium, a world-leading research and innovation center for robotics and autonomous systems.
• The program is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).

• Scotland: Paid by SAAS
• England / Wales / N Ireland / Rep of Ireland: £9,250
• International: £24,048