Santa Clara University

How this program compares

At an estimated $57.7K in total tuition, the MS in Robotics and Automation sits about 35% above the $42.9K average for AI master's programs in our database — placing it in the 75th percentile on cost among the 394 we track at this level. It runs on a full-time schedule (on-campus).

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: A bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, or related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, along with relevant coursework in programming, calculus, and physics.

About This Program

This interdisciplinary program integrates mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering to provide students with the expertise needed to design and control robotic systems and smart machines. Coursework concentrates on Machine Learning and Robotics & Autonomous Systems. Most students complete it in about 2 years.

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

Design and control robotic systems for industrial automation.

At roughly $57.7K total, Santa Clara University's MS in Robotics and Automation sits above the $42.9K average among AI master's programs we track — the 75th percentile on price. Applicants should weigh that premium against the program's outcomes and brand.

It is one of 65 AI-related programs we track in California, of which about 37% offer an online option. On price, it comes in higher than about 61% of the California programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $63.3K.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Santa Clara University's MS in Robotics and Automation most often target Robotics Engineer roles, where reported compensation runs around $110,000. Its focus on Machine Learning 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 10% growth this decade — verify the current figure on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook before you rely on it.

• 1. Robotics Engineer
• 2. Automation Controls Engineer
• 3. Mechatronics Specialist
• 4. Autonomous Systems Developer

What You'll Learn

• Design and control robotic systems for industrial automation
• Implement computer vision and sensor fusion for perception
• Develop motion planning algorithms for autonomous navigation
• Optimize mechatronic systems for reliability and efficiency

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum offers concentration options in autonomous vehicles, aerospace systems, or agricultural technology, featuring a capstone design project or master's thesis for real-world application.

Top Employers

Top employers include Tesla, Boston Dynamics, Siemens, and Amazon Robotics.

Admissions

Admission to Santa Clara University's MS in Robotics and Automation 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