Robotics Carnegie Mellon University

Overview

The Robotics programme at Carnegie Mellon University is a research-driven Master of Science designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the development of future technologies. This interdisciplinary course provides a rigorous foundation in technical principles while allowing for deep specialisation through original research. Students benefit from an environment that mimics the initial years of a doctoral programme, facilitating a smooth transition for those pursuing further academic study.

Why Robotics at Carnegie Mellon University?

Studying at the Robotics Institute provides access to one of the world's most renowned centres for intelligent systems. The programme emphasises a balanced approach between theoretical breadth and specialised depth. Students conduct their supervised research within state-of-the-art laboratories, working alongside distinguished faculty and peers. The curriculum is specifically structured to cover foundational domains including sensing, perception, and environment interaction, ensuring graduates possess a comprehensive technical toolkit.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 60400 per year
• National fee: USD 60400 per year
• Local fee: USD 60400 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires the completion of 168 credits, split equally between taught modules and supervised research. Students must complete four core areas and three elective subjects. Modules may include:

• Sensing and Perception
• Thinking about Actions
• Robot Embodiment
• Environment Interaction
• Human-Robot Interaction
• Haptics
• Field Robotics
• Robotic Vision
• Machine Learning

In addition to coursework, students must complete a Master's Thesis and deliver a public oral presentation. The research component involves formulating a problem, conducting experiments, and producing a final publication-quality document under the guidance of a faculty advisor.

Careers with Robotics

Graduates are well-equipped for advanced research careers in both the public and private sectors. The programme serves as a primary gateway to doctoral degree programmes at leading global institutions. Beyond academia, alumni frequently secure research staff positions at major technology companies and government agencies. The focus on original research and technical mastery ensures that students are prepared for roles involving the design and implementation of complex robotic systems and autonomous technologies.

Accreditation

• Carnegie Mellon University is accredited through a voluntary, peer-review process coordinated by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE or Middle States). MSCHE is one of six regional accrediting agencies in the United States, each accrediting institutions of higher education within a specific geographic region. Middle States is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. This recognition enables MSCHE's member institutions to establish eligibility to participate in federal financial aid programs (e.g., federal loans, grants, and work-study) administered by the U.S. Department of Education. Carnegie Mellon University has been accredited by Middle States since 1921.
• Please visit the pages within this site to learn more about accreditation standards and processes and to view the University's reaccreditation reports.