Robotics Control and Intelligent Systems

The Robotics Control and Intelligent Systems Master’s program at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) offers students an in-depth education in the design, development, and implementation of advanced robotic and intelligent systems. This interdisciplinary program combines principles from mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, and control engineering to prepare students for innovative careers in robotics research, development, and industrial applications. The curriculum is designed to provide strong theoretical foundations while emphasizing practical skills through laboratory work, projects, and collaborations with industry partners. Students gain expertise in areas such as autonomous systems, sensor integration, machine learning, perception, motion planning, and human-robot interaction. The program encourages innovation and problem-solving skills, enabling graduates to contribute effectively to the evolving fields of automation, artificial intelligence, and intelligent systems. Throughout the course, students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research centers, fostering an environment of discovery and technological advancement. Career opportunities for graduates include roles in robotics startups, aerospace, manufacturing, healthcare, research institutions, and academia. The program also offers pathways for doctoral studies for students wishing to pursue advanced research. Emphasizing a multidisciplinary approach, the Master’s in Robotics Control and Intelligent Systems at EPFL equips students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to lead the future development of intelligent robotics technologies in various sectors worldwide.

• Design of experiments (a) - Fall session 
• Design of experiments (c) - Spring session
• Highlights in microtechnology   
• Product lifecycle management - concepts methods and tools
• Topics in Autonomous Robotics
• Translational Robotics for Clinical Rehabilitation 

Before applying for admission, candidates should consult the websites of the laboratories participating in the Robotics, Control and Intelligent Systems program, to get acquainted with current research activities and to identify potential thesis advisers. They must then fill out the application form for the EPFL Doctoral School and submit them to the secretary of the EDRS doctoral program. The webpage of the EPFL Doctoral School provides practical information about student life at EPFL and in the Lausanne area.

Complete and validated application files (including 3 letters of recommendation, diplomas and grades for bachelor and master) must reach the secretariat of the program at the latest the day of the deadline date to be evaluated at the corresponding deadline date session.

Deadlines : January 15 - April 30 - September 15

The Robotics Control and Intelligent Systems master's program at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) offers a variety of financing options for students to support their academic journey. Funding opportunities include university scholarships, research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and external scholarships from government and private organizations. EPFL provides merit-based scholarships for outstanding students, which may cover tuition fees partially or fully, depending on the applicant's academic excellence and financial need. Additionally, students enrolled in the program can apply for research assistant positions within various departments, where they assist faculty with ongoing research projects related to robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence. These positions often provide a salary or stipend, helping students offset living expenses and gain valuable research experience. Teaching assistantships are also available, allowing students to support undergraduate teaching activities, which in turn come with a financial allowance and opportunities to develop pedagogical skills. EPFL maintains collaborations with Swiss and international organizations that offer scholarships and grants to international students, including the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships and funding from the European Union. Furthermore, students are encouraged to seek external funding from national research agencies, foundations, or private companies interested in robotics and intelligent systems. The university’s Career Center provides guidance on funding sources and supports students in preparing applications. Some students may also leverage part-time work opportunities and internships during their studies, which are available both on and off-campus, subject to visa regulations for international students. Overall, the combination of university-controlled funding programs, external scholarships, research and teaching assistantships, and external grants can significantly reduce the financial burden of pursuing a master's degree in Robotics Control and Intelligent Systems at EPFL. It is advisable for prospective students to research and apply early for these funding sources as application deadlines and eligibility criteria vary.

The Master of Science in Robotics, Control and Intelligent Systems at ETH Zurich offers a comprehensive education in the core areas of robotics, control engineering, and artificial intelligence. This interdisciplinary program is designed to equip students with advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills to develop autonomous systems, robotic architectures, and intelligent control algorithms. The curriculum is structured to provide a solid foundation in mathematics, computer science, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering, ensuring graduates are capable of tackling complex challenges in robotics and automation.

Students will engage with coursework covering topics such as robot dynamics, perception and sensing, machine learning, computer vision, automation, and embedded systems. The program also emphasizes research opportunities, encouraging students to participate in cutting-edge projects and collaborations with industry partners. Practical experience is gained through laboratory work, design projects, and internships, fostering skills in system integration, programming, and algorithm development.

The program is typically delivered over four semesters, with a balance of coursework, a master's thesis, and project work. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and computing facilities at ETH Zurich, which support experimental research and prototype development. The program prepares graduates for careers in research, industry, or entrepreneurship, with opportunities spanning robotics development, industrial automation, autonomous vehicles, and intelligent systems.

Admission to the program requires a solid academic background in engineering or computer science, along with proficiency in English. The university highly values innovation, problem-solving skills, and practical experience. Graduates of this program are well-positioned for leadership roles in technological innovation and applied research within the rapidly evolving field of robotics and intelligent systems.