Program start date | Application deadline |
2024-08-01 | - |
2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The MSc in Robotics and Autonomous Systems at the University of Sussex is a conversion course designed for non-engineering graduates aspiring to work in the field. The program emphasizes developing skills in designing and implementing robotic and autonomous systems, fostering individual responsibility, critical awareness, and innovative thinking. Students benefit from supervision by research-active faculty, industry links, well-equipped facilities, and support for professional development. This program qualifies graduates for a broad range of careers in smart technologies, autonomous vehicles, medical robotics, and other innovative fields.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This MSc in Robotics and Autonomous Systems is a conversion course designed for non-engineering graduates who wish to work for engineering companies. The program aims to equip students with the skills necessary to work in the field of robotics and automation, including:
- Developing and applying devices and systems for robotics and automation
- Creating smart systems with autonomous capabilities
- Designing ubiquitous and wearable devices The program emphasizes individual responsibility, critical awareness, and creative thinking, and examines issues such as:
- Project management, planning, and scheduling
- Resourcing
- Documentation and communication Students will be supervised by research-active faculty and will be part of the University of Sussex's vibrant international community. The program benefits from strong industry links, well-equipped research and teaching laboratories, and dedicated support for professional development.
Outline:
The program is offered as a 1-year full-time or 2-year part-time course.
Core Modules:
- MSc Project (Robotics and Autonomous Systems): This substantial project is often practical and theoretical, with opportunities for industrial partnerships. Previous student projects have led to journal and conference publications. The project emphasizes individual responsibility and promotes skills development in project management, planning, resourcing, scheduling, documentation, communication, critical awareness, and creative thinking. Assessment includes interim reports, presentations, and a dissertation. Some projects are undertaken in groups, replicating professional teamwork expected in industry. Topics are generated from academic research and industrial collaborations within the Department. A faculty member supervises the project. Students will learn to use CAD software to design and model robotic components, systems, and environments. Students will learn about feedback control systems, stability analysis, and controller design.
- Mechanics of Mechanisms and Robots: This module explores the mechanical principles underlying the design and operation of robotic mechanisms. Students will learn about kinematics, dynamics, and the analysis of robotic systems.
- Reawakening Mathematics: This module provides a refresher on essential mathematical concepts and techniques relevant to robotics and autonomous systems. Students will review topics such as linear algebra, calculus, and differential equations.
- Autonomous Vehicles: This module focuses on the design, control, and implementation of autonomous vehicles. Students will learn about sensor fusion, path planning, and navigation algorithms.
- Robot Design and Implementation: This module covers the practical aspects of robotic design and implementation. Students will learn about different robotic architectures, actuators, sensors, and programming techniques.
Options:
Students can choose options to broaden their horizons and tailor their course to their interests. The following options are subject to change based on student feedback, research, and staff availability:
- Business and Project Management: This module explores the principles and practices of project management in a business context. Students will learn about project planning, risk management, and team leadership. Students will learn about usability principles, interaction design, and user-centered design methods.
- Internet-of-Things and Embedded System Practice: This module introduces the concepts and technologies behind the Internet of Things (IoT) and embedded systems. Students will learn about sensor networks, data communication, and embedded programming. Students will learn about machine learning, reinforcement learning, and evolutionary algorithms.
- Advanced Topics in Control of Electromechanical Systems: This module delves into advanced control techniques for electromechanical systems, including nonlinear control, adaptive control, and robust control.
- Embedded Systems and Sensors: This module covers the design and implementation of embedded systems, including sensor integration, data acquisition, and signal processing.
- Image Processing: This module introduces the fundamentals of image processing and its application to robotics and autonomous systems. Students will learn about image segmentation, feature extraction, and object recognition.
- Industrial Automation and Mechatronics: This module explores the integration of mechanical, electrical, and computer systems in industrial automation. Students will learn about mechatronics principles, automation technologies, and industrial robotics.
- Machine Learning: This module provides an introduction to machine learning, a powerful tool for building intelligent systems. Students will learn about supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and deep learning.
- Wearable Technologies: This module examines the design, development, and applications of wearable technologies, including smartwatches, fitness trackers, and medical devices.
Assessment:
Assessment methods vary depending on the module but may include:
- Exams: Written examinations assess students' understanding of core concepts and theories.
- Assignments: Written assignments allow students to demonstrate their critical thinking, research, and analytical skills.
- Presentations: Oral presentations provide opportunities for students to communicate their findings and ideas effectively.
- Project Reports: Project reports document the research, design, and implementation of students' MSc projects.
Teaching:
Teaching methods include:
- Lectures: Lectures provide a structured overview of key concepts and theories.
- Seminars: Seminars offer opportunities for interactive discussions and critical analysis of topics.
- Tutorials: Tutorials provide personalized support and guidance on specific topics.
- Practical Sessions: Practical sessions allow students to apply their knowledge and skills in a hands-on environment.
Careers:
An MSc in Robotics and Autonomous Systems can lead to a wide range of career opportunities in established and rapidly developing fields, including:
- Smart Technologies: Designing and developing smart devices and systems for various applications.
- Driverless Vehicles: Working on the development and implementation of autonomous vehicles.
- Vehicle Design: Contributing to the design and engineering of vehicles with advanced features.
- Renewable Energies: Applying robotics and automation to renewable energy systems.
- Film and Television: Creating special effects and animation using robotics and computer graphics.
- Car Production Manufacturing: Optimizing manufacturing processes and developing robotic systems for automotive production.
- Space or Underwater Exploration: Designing and operating robots for exploration in extreme environments.
- Precision Agriculture: Developing robotic systems for precision farming and agricultural automation.
- Medical Diagnosis: Creating robotic systems for medical diagnosis and treatment.
- Remote and Minimally Invasive Surgery: Developing robotic systems for remote and minimally invasive surgical procedures.
- Crime Prevention: Designing and deploying robotic systems for security and surveillance.
Other:
The program is offered by the Department of Engineering and Design at the University of Sussex. The University of Sussex is a leading research-intensive university with a strong reputation for innovation and excellence in engineering and technology.
Home students: £11,950 per year for full-time students Channel Islands and Isle of Man students: £11,950 per year for full-time students International students: £25,000 per year for full-time students
University of Sussex
Overview:
The University of Sussex is a leading, research-intensive university located in Brighton, UK. It is known for its commitment to academic excellence and its focus on creating a vibrant and diverse campus community.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Accommodation:
On-campus housing options are available for students, with various types of accommodation to suit different needs and budgets.Student Support:
The university provides comprehensive support services to students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health resources.Careers:
The university offers career services to help students find internships, graduate jobs, and develop their career skills.Library:
The university library provides access to a vast collection of books, journals, and online resources.IT Services:
Students have access to a range of IT services, including computer labs, wireless internet, and online learning platforms.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Sussex can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a wide range of clubs, societies, and sports teams for students to join. The campus is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Brighton.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Research Excellence:
The university is renowned for its research excellence, with a strong focus on innovation and impact.World-Class Faculty:
The university boasts a world-class faculty, with experts in a wide range of fields.Vibrant Campus Community:
The university has a diverse and welcoming campus community, with a strong sense of belonging.Location:
The university is located in Brighton, a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a thriving arts and culture scene.Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including: