Boston University

How this program compares

Budget-wise, $69.9K puts this master's program at the 85th percentile on cost — about 63% above the $42.9K average across 394 comparable listings. It runs on a full-time schedule (on-campus).

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: A bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, along with prerequisites in programming, linear algebra, and control systems. GRE scores are often optional, and relevant experience in robotics or AI is preferred.

About This Program

This multidisciplinary program explores robotics from the interconnected perspectives of mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering and computer science. Coursework concentrates on Machine Learning and Robotics & Autonomous Systems. Most students complete it in about 2 years.

It is one of 27 AI-related programs we track in Massachusetts, of which about 56% offer an online option. On price, it comes in higher than about 77% of the Massachusetts programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $58.9K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as Robotics Engineer, with reported salaries around $110,000.

Design and simulate autonomous robots and vehicles for stability and maneuverability.

Estimated total tuition is $69.9K, above the $42.9K average for AI master's programs in our database and in the 85th percentile on cost at this level. Applicants should weigh that premium against the program's outcomes and brand.

Career Outcomes

The MS in Robotics & Autonomous Systems at Boston University (Boston, Massachusetts) is oriented toward Robotics Engineer hiring, with alumni reporting pay near $110,000. Its focus on Machine Learning and Robotics & Autonomous Systems maps directly to how employers in autonomous vehicles screen for specialized skills rather than generic degrees. Federal projections for this occupational area point to roughly 15% growth this decade — verify the current figure on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook before you rely on it.

• 1. Robotics Engineer
• 2. Autonomous Systems Engineer
• 3. Embedded Systems Developer
• 4. AI Robotics Specialist

What You'll Learn

• Design and simulate autonomous robots and vehicles for stability and maneuverability.
• Integrate sensors, AI, and machine learning for perception and real-time decision-making.
• Develop control systems and trajectory planning for multi-agent robotic fleets.
• Build embedded software for hardware-software co-design in robotic applications.

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum includes core engineering principles and electives in areas such as mechatronics, robotic manipulation, and artificial intelligence integration.

Top Employers

Top employers include Boston Dynamics, iRobot, Google DeepMind, and aerospace firms like Boeing and Lockheed Martin.

Admissions

Admission to Boston University's MS in Robotics & Autonomous Systems generally expects a bachelor's degree. The GRE is optional here — a growing norm among AI programs — so applicants can often lead with coursework, projects and recommendations instead. Deadlines, testing policies and funding change year to year, so confirm the current requirements on the official program page before applying.

Application Materials

• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Letters of Recommendation: 2–3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Frequently Asked Questions