Online Robotics Degree: 9 Top Programs

Do you have a strong desire to improve how humans live and work? If the answer is yes, an online robotics degree can help you shape a better future.

So, what is robotics engineering? This unique field involves designing, building, and guiding intelligent machines that make our lives more efficient. A career involving robots may sound like a science fiction film, but robots are already helping our society. According to the Institute of Electronics and Electrical Engineers (IEEE), robotics are already making a difference in the manufacturing, healthcare, emergency response, and entertainment fields. We also see robotics in daily life – farming, food service, and in the workplace.

If you want to be at the forefront of these changes, then earning a robotics degree online can launch you into an exciting career. Master the blend of problem-solving, math, computer science, and mechanical engineering that drives this technology. From designing robot arms that perform delicate surgery to programming drones that map disaster zones, the career possibilities are endless as a robotics engineer.

This article dives into nine of the best colleges for robotics engineering to help you get started on a career that’s both fulfilling and impactful.

Article Navigation: Types of Online Robotics Engineering Degrees  | Bachelor’s Degrees in Robotics | 3 Best Schools for a Bachelor’s in Robotics Online | Master’s Degrees in Robotics | 3 Top Picks for a Master’s in Robotics Online | Graduate Certificates in Robotics | 3 Best Schools for a Graduate Certificate in Robotics Online | Accreditation For Online Robotics Programs | Is Getting an Online Robotics Degree Worth It? | Start an Online Robotics Degree Today!

Types of Online Robotics Engineering Degrees

The booming world of robotics is paving the way for diverse online robotics programs, each tailor-made to your specific passion within the field. Dive into bachelor’s degrees that lay the fundamental groundwork, or propel yourself further with advanced master’s programs that hone your expertise. Whether you’re drawn to mechanical design, electronics, or the world of artificial intelligence, there’s a perfect online learning path waiting for you. Some programs sprinkle in hands-on labs where you’ll get to tinker with real robots, turning digital plans into tangible reality. But rest assured, the in-person components vary for each program – some require a hybrid approach, while others keep you comfortably at home. So, let’s explore the possibilities of online robotics degrees!

Industrial Robotics Engineering

This degree teaches students to design robots for different industries,  bringing them to life using programming languages and tools. During this program, students learn how to use mechatronics, control systems, and sensors to create precise movements. After that, they graduate with the skills to operate and manage industrial robots. Jobs with this degree include AI specialist, aerospace engineer, and software engineer.

Aerospace Robotics Engineering

Data science and artificial intelligence go hand-in-hand. This advanced degree combines the two for a dynamic learning experience. It is a mixture of research, theory, and hands-on practice. This degree mixes key concepts from data science and artificial intelligence. It is a versatile degree, since graduates learn from two in-demand fields. Sample courses include Blockchain technology, Artificial Intelligence Applications, and Design Thinking.

Automotive Robotics Engineering

Similarly, an MBA with an AI concentration is a pragmatic degree. On one hand, you’ll reinforce business foundational subjects like accounting, marketing, and entrepreneurship. On the other hand, the AI element helps students connect the dots between the two disciplines. Students will learn essential management skills and how to incorporate artificial intelligence to improve business productivity. Future business executives must harness AI skills to help their company thrive, and this degree will give them the right tools. Usually, students take MBA courses and choose AI-related electives. Classes can range from Managerial Communication, Integrated Decision Making, to Machine Learning.

Mechatronics Engineering

It is a practice-first degree that incorporates projects in its curriculum. Research is less of an emphasis although it’s still an important element of the degree. Instead, graduate students will focus on different complex tasks that interconnect AI and engineering. Students will gain strong technical skills as they develop AI-related new technologies. For example, Engineering Project Management, Intelligent Systems, and Soft Computing Based on AI are some of the courses you can take. Many of these programs are non-thesis degrees. Innovators at heart would benefit most from this degree.

Drone and Unmanned Aerial Systems Engineering

Students who pursue this degree will gain expertise and knowledge in UAVs and drones, with coursework focused on learning how to operate and manage unmanned systems. Hands-on practice and real-world simulations are part of this degree, which features topics like aeronautical engineering, risk management, and surveillance. Possible curriculums include Aviation Business, Cybersecurity, and Modern Control Systems classes.

Robotics Software Engineering

This concentration will teach you how to develop software to improve how robots operate. It has a strong computer science foundation. You’ll become familiar with automatization, debugging programs, and multiple coding languages. The degree is ideal for creative minds who want to build applications to impact a robot’s functionality. Students learn about robot behavior, algorithms, and data analytics. Robotics Software Development is a possible course.

Biomedical Robotics Engineering

These programs focus on designing and improving medical robots. Coursework taps into mechanical, electrical, and biomedical engineering. Students learn about surgery systems, injury prevention, and advanced prosthetic devices. Moreover, they discover the applications of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and autonomous systems in biomedical engineering. Besides working in the medical field, research and manufacturing are potential career paths. Medical Imaging, Tissue Engineering, and Cellular Physiology are example courses.

Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Robotics

A robotics engineering bachelor’s degree online is an excellent introduction to the industry. Ideal candidates for this degree should have an interest in STEM fields. You will build your core knowledge in computer science, software development, and robotic technology.

A typical online robotics bachelor’s degree offers around 120 credits. To begin with, students complete general education courses. After that, they begin taking classes relevant to their degree. Programs may also include immersive labs and practice opportunities. Most aspects of bachelor’s programs are online, which allows students to earn a degree from anywhere.

Generally, applicants must submit high school transcripts. SAT and ACT scores might be required. A resume and letter of intent often is required. Prior STEM-related coursework is often required.

3 Best Schools for a Bachelor’s in Robotics Online

1. University of Advancing Technology

   Accreditation: HLC
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $722 per credit hour

   Become a STEM expert at the University of Advancing Technology (UAT). This institution offers an online robotics degree to create the next generation of innovators. You will become versed in many skills like programming languages, mechanical systems, and sensor processing. Students will participate in immersive embedded systems projects to solve real-world problems. In essence, you will gain the foundational knowledge needed to succeed in numerous robotics engineering jobs.

   UAT built a program with the student’s needs in mind. Their flexible learning format has asynchronous courses, which helps students balance their schedules. Courses are intensive – you will take condensed five-week courses. There are nine official start dates a year. However, ambitious students can take a class from a future semester early. UAT calls this “jump starting.” Virtual classes offer a fourteen-to-one student-to-teacher ratio. You can ask questions and receive personalized mentorship from experienced faculty.

   Find Out More:
   Bachelor of Science in Robotics and Embedded Systems

    

2. Kansas State University

   Accreditation: HLC
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $351 per credit hour

   Kansas State University offers a comprehensive robotics degree online. This accredited institution gives students a practical educational experience. Learn with expert K-State professors and thrive in a fully online setting. Students will develop hands-on skills to calibrate, test, and deploy robots.

   Courses feature skill labs to ensure you are learning the material. You can test algorithms with the school’s collaborative robot called “Cobot.” Students have access to state-of-the-art technology like the Tesla V100. These processors help students conduct impactful artificial intelligence simulations. These in-depth projects will help build confidence to succeed in your next career. In short, you have the tools to grow and help make positive changes to people’s daily lives. The 120-unit program gives the option to pursue either a web development or computational core track. Coursework focuses more on fieldwork experiences than getting bogged down in coding.

   Find Out More:
   Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology / Machine Learning & Autonomous Systems

    

3. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

   Accreditation: SACSCOC
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $1,767 per credit hour

   Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s online BSUAS degree offers robotics engineering courses that specialize in uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and small uncrewed aircraft systems (sUAS). Graduates develop skills in propulsion, airspace integration, and teaming. Moreover, an 83% post-graduation job placement rate shows graduates are marketable candidates for many unscrewed systems careers. Construction, government, and agriculture are just a few industries that hire Embry graduates.

   Coursework is innovative and rigorous. Students choose between an administration, operations, or development track. You will grow as a critical thinker, problem-solver, and communicator. Numerous specializations are available to support your career goals. For example, students can earn an Agricultural Drone Certification or become a Certified Remote Pilot. The “Top Drone” residency program for advanced drone pilots is available. Students can earn both an undergrad and master’s in just five years thanks to the 4+1 program.

   Find Out More:
   Bachelor of Science in Uncrewed & Autonomous Systems

    

Online Master’s Degrees in Robotics

An online robotics master’s degree is a surefire way to stand out to potential employers. Though a bachelor’s degree helps professionals break into the field, a master’s ensures they thrive. Ideal candidates are recent bachelor’s degree holders who wish to continue their journey and working professionals seeking a career boost.

Unlike a bachelor’s degree, students will go deep into research. Programs also emphasize experimental learning to reinforce skills. Therefore, you will conduct experiments and get practical experience through immersive projects. Many master’s programs include labs to help students apply theoretical skills to real-world problems. Learning sequences usually include approximately ten intensive courses or around 30 credits of material. In essence, students can choose electives to tailor their degree towards certain specialties. Programs often help students develop knowledge in project management, machine learning, artificial intelligence, software development, and computer science. There may be a capstone project or thesis at the end of the online robotics master’s degree.

Successful applicants generally come from STEM backgrounds. GRE scores may be required. Schools may require a minimum 3.0 undergrad GPA. Proficiency in various disciplines such as Calculus, Algebra, and different programming languages.

Below is our list of top programs to help you find the best online robotics master’s degree. Each selection is an accredited and peer-respected institution. They offer relevant coursework to help you succeed as a roboticist and are fully online.

3 Top Picks for a Master’s in Robotics Online

1. Kennesaw State University

   Accreditation: SACSCOC
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $383 per credit hour

   Kennesaw State University has a dynamic online robotics degree that won’t break the bank. Affordable and effective, it’s ideal for students with STEM backgrounds. In fact, it aligns with current industry trends to help you become a capable intelligent robotic systems engineer. You will balance theory and practice in this program, while you learn online.

   To begin with, you’ll tackle topics like Robot Operating Systems (ROS), machine learning, and robotic simulations. You will also learn how to design and utilize systems for AI. Knowledge from each course can easily translate to numerous professional industries. In addition, students learn from experienced faculty who are committed to their growth.

   There are three start dates each year for this 30-hour online master’s degree in robotics. Multiple project options are available as a final graduation requirement. Graduate students can earn their advanced degree in just one year. Applicants must hold a STEM bachelor’s degree, a 3.0 undergrad GPA, and may need to submit GRE scores.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Science in Intelligent Robotic Systems

    

2. Johns Hopkins University

   Accreditation: MSCHE
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $1697 per credit hour

   Johns Hopkins University’s reputation as a robotic engineering pioneer continues with an in-depth master’s in robotics engineering degree. Students will utilize cutting-edge technologies to deepen their robotics expertise. In fact, JHU has a robust catalog of 17 robotic and autonomous systems courses to match your long-term goals. The program’s curriculum creates experts in areas like complex system modeling, automatic computing, and AI ethics.

   The JHU robotics engineer degree is 30 credits long and features ten courses. In addition to four core and three focus areas, students complete three elective classes. Besides autonomous systems, other focus areas offered include human-robot / robot-robot teaming and general robotics. Courses are a combination of live online lectures and self-paced delivery formats. JHU seeks candidates with a bachelor’s degree in a STEM major who are proficient in math, programming, and software development.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Science in Robotics & Autonomous Systems

    

3. Stevens Institute of Technology

   Accreditation: MSCHE
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $1,724 per credit hour (full-time), $1,864 per credit hour (part-time)

   Stevens Institute of Technology offers a nationally ranked Master of Engineering in Robotics. Technical skills and research combine in an online setting, while students learn from published creators with patented work. Moreover, there’s is a 95% employment rate within three months of graduating from Stevens.

   The 30-credit degree features core classes, electives, and robotics engineering courses. All in all, you will get a well-rounded education that blends mechanical engineering, mathematical sciences, and computer science. Each course lays the groundwork for your knowledge, while project-based robotics labs build expertise. The program covers topics ranging from robotic modeling and deep learning, to different programming languages. Students can either complete a final project or thesis to graduate. Although best suited for mechanical engineering students, all education backgrounds can apply.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Engineering in Robotics

    

Online Graduate Certificates in Robotics

Fascinated by robotics but hesitant about a full graduate degree? Dive into a graduate certificate instead! It’s your streamlined path to robotics expertise, offering an intensive year-long introduction with less commitment than a master’s. A graduate certificate in robotics is perfect for those seeking a career boost, or engineers needing robotics credentials. Expect around four graduate-level courses which lead to a stand-alone credential. At times, a graduate certificate can be a potential gateway to a master’s, with the credits transferring to online robotics degree programs. Admission varies by school, but most graduate certificates in robotics require undergrad transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal statement.

For those without a robotics background, a related bachelor’s in engineering, computer science, or math is typically sufficient. Get Educated has curated a list of the top online robotics graduate certificates based on value, curriculum quality, online capabilities, student success, and institutional credibility.

3 Best Schools for a Graduate Certificate in Robotics Online

1. Clemson University

   Accreditation: SACSCOC
   Tuition (In-State): $514 per credit hour
   Tuition (Out-of-State): $1,032 per credit hour

   Clemson University offers a well-rounded graduate certificate online with live virtual lectures or asynchronous study material. The certificate is ideal for working professionals who want to broaden their career prospects, while they gain essential skills.

   The curriculum reinforces basic principles of human-robot interaction, data analytics, and mechatronics. Not to mention that students can complete the 12 credit-hour program in as little as one year. In a virtual setting, they will participate in lab experiments and hands-on projects and learn the latest robotics and autonomous technologies. Graduates can apply for entry-level robotics engineer jobs or continue their studies. What’s more, credits can even transfer to complete a robotics degree online at a different school. Ideal candidates should have a bachelor’s in either engineering, physics, or math.

   Find Out More:
   Graduate Certificate in Autonomous and Robotic Systems

    

2. Stanford University

   Accreditation: WSCUC
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $1,456 per credit hour
   Stanford offers an effective four-course graduate certificate for aspiring robotics professionals. In short, the goal of the program is to connect students to different robotics specialties. In due time, they’ll have a complete understanding of the field. For example, they’ll explore focus areas like learning-based methods, systems integrations, physical interactions, and robot-to-human interactions. Learning outcomes include building collaborative systems and autonomous robots.

   The program consists of two required courses and two electives from a diverse catalog. Most candidates finish between one and two years. In addition, they have a rare opportunity to learn and interact with the industry community in an optional weekly seminar series. Applicants must have prior coding and commuter programming experience and a 3.5 undergrad GPA. They must also complete prior algebra, statistics, probability, and calculus coursework.

   Find Out More:
   Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence

    

3. Naval Postgraduate School

   Accreditation: WSCUC, WASC
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $700 per credit hour

   The Naval Postgraduate School’s (NPS) distance learning program has coursework to help you learn robotics, autonomous systems, and unmanned vehicle skills. The program is flexible, offering both instructor-led and self-paced study, so it can work around your schedule.

   The 20-credit hour program is divided into foundations and application sequences. Practice is a vital part of this certificate, so each course has a lab to give students hands-on experience. The curriculum helps students master advanced tech to solve defense-related problems, while they gain confidence working with AI, machine learning, and big data analysis. There are two start dates per year, and most students complete the program in one year. Qualified applicants must be a US military officer, Department of Defense contractor, or government civilian, and a commander/company endorsement is required.

   Find Out More:
   Graduate Certificate in Robotics Engineering

    

Accreditation For Online Robotics Programs

Every robotics engineering degree on our list comes from an accredited university or college. According to the Department of Education (DOE), accrediting agencies thoroughly review a school based on student outcomes, curriculums, faculty, resources, and educational standards. Once the school passes these reviews, it receives accreditation.

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) are examples of regional accreditation authorities. Accreditation is crucial for your degree’s credibility. In fact, without it, industry peers and employers may not value your qualifications. Always choose programs from accredited schools, to be sure.

An individual online robotics degree program can also have accreditation. Although this isn’t necessary to land a quality job, it can add value to your resume. Also, programmatic accreditation means a program has been reviewed and approved for its excellent academic standards. It assures prospective students that the program has high integrity.

The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) is the country’s premier agency to recognize engineering programs. They are a non-profit that accredits individual associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s programs.

You may consider getting a Professional Engineer (PE) license after completing your education and getting work experience. In truth, most entry-level robotics engineering jobs don’t require a license. However, there are many benefits to getting one. In sum, a PE license gives you more employment flexibility and increased pay. By and large, it adds prestige to your resume and opens doors to leadership positions. The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) administers the PE exam. Only candidates with at least four years of relevant work experience can apply to take the exam.

Is Getting an Online Robotics Degree Worth It?

If you want to break into the robotics engineering field, the best way to do that is with formal training. An online robotics degree can be your gateway. Graduates gain essential skills and learn to master innovative technologies. They also build a solid foundation in various disciplines like computer science, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering. This path prepares graduates for many high-paying careers that are not only financially rewarding but also encourage creativity and innovation.

According to Glassdoor, robotics engineers in 2024 make a median yearly salary between $93,000 and $151,000 per year. What’s more, the 10% projected employment growth over the next ten years is double the national average.

Gaining work experience and obtaining a PE license can give you a professional advantage as well. If you want to earn more, then New Mexico, the District of Columbia, and Louisiana offer the best median yearly salaries.

Skills learned from your robotics degree online qualify you for data scientist positions, which offers not only job security but also generous pay. There is also a 35% expected ten-year job increase for this position. In 2022, data scientists earned a median of $103,500 in annual salary. The highest-paid data scientists are in California, Washington, and Virginia.

Another career path in this field is that of software engineer. Not only will this field have an exponential 25% growth over the next decade, but also reap an average of $124,000 per year. Although demand is high for this role across the country, California, Texas, and New York have the highest employment rates. Meanwhile, top salaries can be found in California, Washington, and Rhode Island.

Computer hardware engineers earned a median of $132,360 per year in 2022, with job growth projected to increase by 5% over ten years. Entry-level earners make around $78,380 per year, while top performers earn around $208,200 a year.

These jobs are most plentiful in California, Oregon, and Colorado. On the other hand, grads looking for the highest pay should head to California , Massachusetts, and Oregon.

Start an Online Robotics Degree Today!

So, are you ready to take the fast track to the future? A career in robotics engineering is waiting. Embrace the challenge and reap the rewards – job security, great pay, and endless growth. Online robotics programs make the journey flexible, so you can fit your education easily into your life. Let Get Educated’s extended database be your roadmap to help you get started on this degree path today!