Robotic Systems Development

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Robotic Systems Development (MRSD) is an advanced graduate degree with a focus on technical and business skills. The program is designed for recent college graduates or practicing professionals who wish to enter the robotics and automation field as practitioners in the commercial sector. MRSD aims to teach the multidisciplinary skills needed to succeed in industry.

The MRSD curriculum provides a broad education in the sciences and technologies of robotics, reinforces theory through hands-on laboratory projects and exposes students to practical business principles and skills. The unique curriculum allows students to work as a team towards practical system-level robotics development and integration projects. Key business concepts and practices in the curriculum include technology planning, product conceptualization and development, team management, project management, prototyping, production, marketing, and sales.

The MRSD program distinguishes itself from other degree programs by combining state-of-the-art instruction in the science and technology of robotics, hands-on implementation experience, exposure to key business concepts and practices essential to high-technology product development company operations, and the opportunity to complete an internship with a recognized robotics company. The program curriculum consists of 162 units and is designed to be completed full-time in 16 consecutive months. It includes three semesters of full-time courses at Carnegie Mellon and an optional 3-month summer practicum / internship with an affiliated industrial partner in the field of robotics. In addition to learning about the latest robot technologies, students will also be challenged to apply and refine innovative thinking 

MRSD strives to teach the critical skills that technology companies value in their employees. Upon completing the program, students should have an understanding of innovative product development, team management, production-readiness, marketing, sales & support as well as strategic technology planning, budgeting and overall leadership. Graduates of MRSD are expected to have high-level technical and managerial competence, making them extremely desirable candidates for employment. Graduates will have the skills to operate at a higher technical / managerial level within a company from the start, drastically reducing the on-the-job training duration companies typically invest into an employee.

Undergraduate (B.Sc. or equivalent) in engineering, computer science, physical science or applied mathematics – REQUIRED
1 to 3 years of practical experience in industry, government or research laboratory – PREFERRED
Standardized Test Completion

General GRE – REQUIRED
TOEFL / IELTS (Foreign Students only) – REQUIRED
Application Materials

Résumé – REQUIRED
Statement of Purpose (1 to 2 pages) – REQUIRED
Undergraduate/Graduate (as applicable) Transcripts – REQUIRED
Letters of Recommendation (3 – REQUIRED)
The application period is Mid-September through December 15 (early application deadline December 3)

The Robotic Systems Development program at Carnegie Mellon University offers a comprehensive financial structure designed to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees vary depending on the specific course load and residency status, with current rates for graduate programs approximately $58,000 per year for full-time students. The university provides a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships, to help offset these costs. Competitive fellowships are available for outstanding applicants, which may cover partial or full tuition and include stipends for living expenses. Graduate Assistantships offer students the opportunity to work on research projects or teaching assignments, providing both income and valuable professional experience. Additionally, students are encouraged to seek external funding sources, such as industry-sponsored scholarships and government grants, which can supplement university aid. The university also promotes loan programs for eligible students, with favorable interest rates and repayment terms. Cost of living in the Pittsburgh area is relatively moderate compared to other major U.S. cities, with expenses including housing, transportation, and personal costs, which should be factored into the overall financial planning. The university’s Financial Aid Office provides detailed guidance and counseling to help prospective and current students navigate the available options. Overall, Carnegie Mellon University aims to make robotic systems development education accessible through various financial support mechanisms, ensuring talented students can pursue advanced studies regardless of their financial background.

The Master of Science in Robotic Systems Development at Carnegie Mellon University is a comprehensive graduate program designed to prepare students for advanced careers in robotics and intelligent systems. This interdisciplinary program combines coursework and research across several departments, including Robotics, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, and Electrical and Computer Engineering, providing students with a broad and robust education in the principles and applications of robotics. The curriculum emphasizes foundational topics such as robotics perception, control systems, automation, artificial intelligence, machine learning, sensors and actuators, embedded systems, and software development.

Students have the opportunity to engage in hands-on projects and laboratory work, enabling them to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios involving robot design, programming, and deployment in real-world environments. The program encourages collaboration with industry partners and research institutions, fostering innovation and facilitating access to cutting-edge technologies. Students may specialize in areas such as autonomous vehicles, robotic manipulation, human-robot interaction, or mobile robotics, tailoring their education to their career interests and industry demands.

The faculty involved in the program are renowned experts in robotics and related fields, providing mentorship and guidance in research projects that contribute to advancing the state of the art. The program also offers professional development opportunities, including workshops, seminars, and industry internships, to prepare graduates for leadership roles in academia, industry, or entrepreneurship. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to develop new robotic systems, improve existing technologies, or pursue further research through doctoral studies. The program's facilities include advanced laboratories and simulation environments that support innovative experimentation. Overall, the Master of Science in Robotic Systems Development at Carnegie Mellon is designed to produce highly skilled professionals capable of pushing the boundaries of robotics technology and its applications across various sectors including manufacturing, healthcare, transportation, and exploration.