Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

How this program compares

Budget-wise, $62.5K puts this master's program at the 79th percentile on cost — about 46% 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 computer science, engineering, or a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, along with programming experience and coursework in algorithms, linear algebra, and calculus. GRE scores are optional, and relevant research or project experience strengthens applications.

About This Program

A technical graduate degree emphasizing a solid foundation in computer science with a specialized focus on the design and analysis of autonomous robotic systems. Coursework concentrates on Computer Vision and Robotics & Autonomous Systems. Most students complete it in about 2 years.

It is one of 56 AI-related programs we track in New York, of which about 43% offer an online option. On price, it comes in higher than about 59% of the New York programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $59.9K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as Robotics Engineer, with reported salaries around $120,000.

Design and implement robotic control systems using kinematics and dynamics.

Budget planners should note $62.5K estimated total tuition (79th percentile among AI master's programs, above the $42.9K average). Applicants should weigh that premium against the program's outcomes and brand.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's M.S. in Computer Science - Robotics most often target Robotics Engineer roles, where reported compensation runs around $120,000. Its focus on Computer Vision and Robotics & Autonomous Systems maps directly to how employers in engineering ai 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 Software Engineer
• 2. Autonomous Systems Developer
• 3. Machine Learning Robotics Specialist
• 4. Research Scientist in Robotics

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement robotic control systems using kinematics and dynamics.
• Apply machine learning techniques to perception and decision-making in robots.
• Develop algorithms for autonomous navigation and path planning.
• Integrate computer vision for object recognition and environment mapping.

Curriculum Highlights

The 30-credit program includes depth buckets in computer systems and theory, along with specialized research or projects in robotics and autonomous applications.

Top Employers

Top employers include Boston Dynamics, Google DeepMind, Amazon Robotics, and automotive firms like Ford and Toyota.

Admissions

Admission to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's M.S. in Computer Science - Robotics 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: 3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Frequently Asked Questions