Worcester Polytechnic Institute

What you'll study

The Robotics Engineering curriculum blends core engineering fundamentals with specialised robotics topics and substantial laboratory and project work. Early courses establish a foundation in calculus, physics, chemistry, programming and basic circuits, followed by core engineering courses in mechanics, materials, signals and systems, and electronics.

• Core robotics subjects: kinematics and dynamics of robots, control theory and feedback systems, sensors and actuators, embedded systems, and mechatronics.
• Computation and perception: programming for robotics, data structures and algorithms, machine perception, computer vision, and machine learning for autonomous systems.
• Systems and integration: real-time systems, robotics software frameworks, motion planning, human–robot interaction and systems engineering.
• Laboratories and hands‑on experience: multi‑term lab sequences in design and fabrication, electronics and embedded programming labs, mobile robotics platforms, and sensor integration. Students apply theory in dedicated robotics labs and maker spaces.
• Project work: a sequence of team projects culminating in a substantial capstone Major Qualifying Project (MQP) where students design, build and demonstrate working robotic systems to address an open-ended problem.
• Humanities and social sciences: WPI’s curriculum includes communication, ethics and project management components to prepare students for multidisciplinary teamwork and leadership.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school credential that qualifies them for university study and demonstrate strong preparation in mathematics and science. Typical preparation includes:

• High achievement in mathematics (including pre-calculus or, preferably, calculus) and physics.
• Background in chemistry and basic programming is highly recommended; experience with C/C++, Python or similar languages is advantageous.
• For international applicants, proof of English proficiency is required where the applicant’s education was not in English; accepted tests are commonly TOEFL or IELTS or equivalent.
• Successful applicants typically demonstrate problem-solving ability through coursework, projects, robotics clubs, internships, or related extracurricular activities.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BS in Robotics Engineering go into a wide range of roles across industry and research. Common career paths include:

• Robotics engineer or systems engineer designing and integrating robotic platforms for manufacturing, logistics, inspection and service industries.
• Controls and automation engineer developing motion control, sensor fusion and feedback systems for autonomous vehicles, drones or industrial manipulators.
• Perception and software engineer working on computer vision, machine learning and SLAM for mobile and aerial robots.
• Embedded systems engineer building real‑time firmware and hardware for low‑power robotic devices.
• Opportunities in research and development, leading to roles in industry R&D groups or preparation for graduate study (MS/PhD) in robotics, computer science, electrical or mechanical engineering.

Why study at Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Worcester Polytechnic Institute emphasises project‑based, interdisciplinary engineering education. Robotics students benefit from hands‑on lab facilities, collaborative design projects and industry partnerships that provide practical experience beyond classroom theory.

• Project‑based learning: WPI’s signature project curriculum ensures students apply technical concepts in team settings on real problems, including global and local project opportunities.
• Dedicated robotics resources: students have access to robotics and maker labs, mobile robotics platforms, fabrication shops and electronics labs that support rapid prototyping and system integration.
• Interdisciplinary environment: the program integrates mechanical, electrical and computer engineering, allowing students to tailor electives toward controls, perception, AI or hardware design.
• Industry engagement: strong links with regional and national employers, co‑op and internship opportunities, and career services help students transition into professional roles.