Robotics and Autonomous Systems (MSc)

This new MSc Robotics and Autonomous Systems programme blends theoretical understanding with hands-on experience and learning to develop skills for the robotics and autonomous systems industry. 

You'll develop theory and practical skills covering real-world applications across land, sea, air, space, and medical robotics. 

This robotics and autonomous systems masters provides foundational and specialist skills in key areas such as: 

• robotics modelling
• sensing
• planning
• control
• machine intelligence

We'll also address critical cross-cutting themes such as ethics, regulation, and human factors.

You’ll gain practical experience in the development, implementation, and responsible deployment of intelligent robotic systems. The learning opportunities will develop your advanced technical knowledge and support you to specialise in your core interests. 

During the programme’s mini conference, you’ll engage with external stakeholders to showcase your achievements and support your career development.

You’ll need a degree in engineering, computing, or a related discipline to benefit from our cutting-edge laboratories, simulation platforms, and industry-aligned project opportunities.

Supporting your career goals

The programme is designed with a strong employability focus and delivered by academics from Engineering and Electronics and Computer Science. 

You’ll address critical cross-cutting themes such as ethics, regulation, and human factors, to prepare you for leadership in robotics and autonomous systems across global sectors. 

As a graduate of this robotics and autonomous systems programme, you will have:

• worked on both fixed and mobile robotic systems in various environments
• hands-on, project-based learning using real robotic platforms
• knowledge of regulation, ethics, and human factors in robotics
• co-designed MSc research projects with academic and industry supervision

Our Manufacturing and Production Engineering course is ranked 2nd in the UK by the Complete University Guide 2026 and 92.3% of Mechanical Engineering masters graduates were in employment from the latest Graduate Outcome data 2024.

Course lead

The course leader is Professor Blair Thornton. If you have any questions, email Professor Thornton on B.Thornton@soton.ac.uk.