School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics

MSc Robotics

Duration

1 year
Course type

Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location Plymouth
Register for open evening
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Gain advanced theoretical and practical knowledge from our world-leading experts in intelligent and autonomous systems. Graduate ready to pursue an exciting career in the robotics industry and academic research. Help resolve real-world problems in areas such as home automation, robotic assistance, agriculture, medicine, transportation, art and entertainment, deep-sea or space exploration.

  • HStart this programme in January or September.

Key features
  • Get up-to-date with the latest developments in artificial life and intelligence, adaptive behaviour, information visualisation, neural computation and dynamic systems, as well as remote access and monitoring systems. Our seminars series with speakers from industry and academia gives you the opportunity to keep ahead in this fast moving field.
  • Give yourself the edge. Our programme distinguishes itself from other robotics masters programmes, in the UK and abroad, by ensuring a deeper theoretical and practical knowledge of interactive and intelligent robotics.
  • Expand your skills with first-class facilities including 3D rapid prototyping systems, in-house PCB design and assembly tools, and our award winning Plymouth Humanoid robots.
  • Get expert training from members of the Autonomous Marine Systems Research Group and the Centre for Robotics and Neural Systems (CRNS) .
  • Access to our new engineering and design facility . Students in engineering, science and the arts have access to a range of specialist equipment and innovative laboratories.
  • Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) on behalf of the Engineering Council as meeting the requirements for Further Learning for registration as a Chartered Engineer. Candidates must hold a CEng accredited BEng/BSc (Hons) undergraduate first degree to comply with full CEng registration requirements.
  • Benefit by combining disciplines that are traditionally taught separately. You’ll graduate ready with the expertise and joined-up knowledge to design and develop fully integrated mechanical, electronic, control and computing systems.
  • Postgraduate scholarships for international students: you can apply for a postgraduate scholarship from the UK government to cover things like course fees and the cost of living when you study in the UK. For more information, details on how to apply and confirmed closing dates for applications, please visit Gov.uk.

Course details

  • Programme overview

  • On this programme you’ll gain a solid and broad understanding of the latest developments and issues in robotics. You’ll build theoretical and practical knowledge of control and design as well as covering the interface between real-world devices, autonomous processing and evaluation of acquired information. You’ll investigate user interaction and intelligent decision-making and immerse yourself in an innovative project inspired by the latest developments in technology and society. You’ll have access to a robotics club and to a seminar series so that you can keep up-to-date with advances in the industry and academia.

    Core modules

    PROJ518
    MSc Dissertation and Research Skills 60 credits

    You will develop a methodical approach to research that helps propose research projects that are practically realistic and academically worthwhile. A substantial project will be planned and carried out using ethically suitable quantitative and qualitative research methods. The project will be reported through a high quality, scholarly and professional write-up, either as a formal dissertation or journal paper.

    100% Coursework

    ROCO507Z
    Advanced Robot Design and Prototyping 20 credits

    This module aims to give the students a theoretical and practical understanding of designing and building advanced robot assemblies and mechanisms, through engineering and bioinspired approaches.

    70% Coursework

    30% Examinations

    ELEC520
    Distributed and Interactive Communications Systems 20 credits

    In this module, students will develop applications involving interconnected hardware devices and software capabilities. Devices include both embedded and networked computers. Capabilities include sensor data acquisition, actuator control, and behaviour generation. The module will cover both theory and practical work, including management of code complexity, and dealing with real-time and reliability issues.

    70% Coursework

    30% Examinations

    COMP5019
    Natural Language Processing and Large Language Models 20 credits

    This module introduces the foundational concepts and applications of Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Large Language Models (LLMs). It covers the theoretical underpinnings of language processing techniques and provides experience in developing and fine-tuning LLM models. Students will learn how NLP and LLMs, such as BERT and GPT, are utilized in diverse domains enabling them to tackle complex challenges effectively.

    100% Coursework

    MECH544
    Data Processing, Simulation and Optimisation of Engineering Systems 20 credits

    Data Processing part of the module explores the benefits and limitations of data processing in engineering practice. State of the art tools and techniques will be introduced in this module. Simulation and Optimisation of Engineering Systems part will provide the tools to enable the students to develop dynamic simulation of engineering systems, predict their behaviour and optimise their performance using MATLAB/Simulink.

    100% Coursework

    ROCO509
    Intelligent Sensors and Actuators in Engineering Systems

    The module covers a range of classical and smart sensors and actuators, which can be applied in interactive and automated system, with emphasis on several key sensors and actuators. It also introduces the micro sensors/actuators devices as well as the automated recycling concept. Besides, this module provides a strong hands-on through inertial measurement unit (IMU) lab practice.

    ROCO510Z
    Computer Vision and Deep Learning

    This module will provide an advanced knowledge of computer vision systems for autonomous robots. It will be underpinned by current theoretical understanding of animal vision systems, feature detection/recognition, and stereo vision/calibration. This module will also introduce the use of deep-learning neural networks (deep feedforward, convolutional, and recurrent) in vision systems.

The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.

Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:

MSc Robotics programme specification September 2025_2558

Entry requirements
A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2.2) in a technical subject such as robotics, computing, engineering (mechanical / electrical/ electronic), physics or mathematics.Students with advanced standing who can evidence an academic ability to a similar level may also be considered.
Applicants will also be asked to provide evidence of: a sound understanding of A level mathematics (linear algebra, calculus, differential equations), basic knowledge of computer hardware and operating systems, basic competency in a programming language such as Python, C, C++, Java or similar. Basic skills in electrical engineering would be a plus.
Applicants with overseas qualifications can check their comparability with the UK equivalent through Ecctis, which provides an advisory service.
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary .
If your first language is not English then evidence of English proficiency is required. The level of proficiency that is required can vary with the type of programme for which you are applying. For further advice on the appropriateness of overseas qualification and proficiency in the use of English, please contact our International Office .
The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is normally 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each element.

Fees, costs and funding
2024-2025 2025-2026
Home £10,700 £11,350
International £19,800 £20,400
Part time (Home) £590 £630
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

Find out more about your eligibility for a postgraduate loan

You may now be eligible for a government loan of over £11,000 to help towards the cost of your masters degree.

Scholarships for international students

We fund our international scholars to reach their goals.
Complete our short enquiry form and we will send you more information on the scholarships that may be available to you.

Tuition fee discount for University of Plymouth graduates

If you studied your undergraduate degree at Plymouth, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
  • 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students
  • For 2024/2025 entry, a 20% discount on tuition fees for international students (International alumni who have applied to the University through an agent are not eligible to receive the discount)

How to apply

Apply online

When to apply

Most of our taught programmes begin in September. Applications can usually be made throughout the year, and are considered until programmes are full.

Before you apply

Familiarise yourself with the information required to complete your application form. You will usually be required to supply:
  • evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
  • evidence of English language proficiency, if English is not your first language
  • a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
  • your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
  • proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
If you require further information take a look at our application guidance.

Disability Inclusion Services

If you have an impairment, health condition or disability, learn about the additional support the University provides .

International students

Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office. Take a look at our how to apply information or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Submitting an application

Once you are happy that you have all of the information required you can apply using our online postgraduate application form (the blue 'Apply' icon on this page).

What happens after I apply?

You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
If you would like any further information please contact the Admissions and Course Enquiries team:
Telephone: +44 1752 585858
Email: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk

Admissions policy

More information and advice for applicants can be referenced in our admissions policy which can be found on the student regulations, policies and procedures page. Prospective students are advised to read the policy before making an application to the University.

Progression routes

International progression routes

The University of Plymouth International College (UPIC) offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to University of Plymouth degrees. Courses are specially designed for EU and international students who are missing the grades for direct entry to the University, and include full duration visa sponsorship. You can start in January, May or September, benefitting from small class sizes, top-quality tuition and 24/7 student support.

Enquiry form

Complete our short enquiry form and we will send you more information on the scholarships that may be available to you.
 

Benefit from specialist facilities

Our robotics facilities and specialist laboratories enable a hands-on approach to learning.
As a robotics student, you'll have use of both custom in-house and industrial robots during your studies. We also have a range of robots and platforms that can be used for student projects, including robot dogs and drones.
Robot platform outside Babbage building

Explore our research groups

Signal transmitting neuron or nerve cell in the brain
Centre for Robotics and Neural Systems (CRNS)

The centre builds on the world-leading and international excellence in the field of artificial intelligence, cognitive robotics and neural computation
Springer's first open water trials, Autonomous Marine Systems
Autonomous Marine Systems Research Group

Exploring the application of AI techniques to the navigation, guidance and control of autonomous vehicles, wave energy devices and marine propulsion systems
Silicon Wafers and Microcircuits - A wafer is a thin slice of semiconductor material, such as a crystalline silicon, used in electronics for the fabrication of integrated circuits.
Nanotechnology and Electronics Research Group

Exploring interdisciplinary research opportunities at the interfaces of nanotechnology, electronics and other disciplines

Hear from our graduates

Learn more about the experiences of some of our robotics graduates

Ishita Parekh

Ishita Parekh
Ishita won the 70th Anniversary British Council Scholarship for Indian women pursuing a masters degree in STEM

Baptiste Arnou

Baptiste Arnou
Baptiste works as an optimisation software engineer for Smart Me Up

Anurag Sure

Anurag Sure
Anurag now works as a Marketing Coordinator for Securifi Embedded Systems

Studying robotics at Plymouth was a transformative experience.

Despite my non-robotic background, the programme was accessible and full of opportunities. I gained valuable skills and connections, which directly helped me secure my first job at the University.
I had the opportunity to collaborate with talented and passionate staff and other students. By the end of the masters, I felt significantly more confident and employable as an engineer than when I first enrolled.
– Sami, MSc Robotics graduate
Sami, Robotics graduate

Meet some of your lecturers

 
* Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology on behalf of the Engineering Council as meeting the requirements for Further Learning for registration as a Chartered Engineer. Candidates must hold a CEng accredited BEng/BSc (Hons) undergraduate first degree to comply with full CEng registration requirements.