University of California, Los Angeles

How this program compares

At an estimated $52.9K in total tuition, the Master of Engineering - Autonomous Systems sits about 23% above the $42.9K average for AI master's programs in our database — placing it in the 71st 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 a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, along with relevant coursework in controls, programming, and mathematics. GRE scores are often optional, and prior experience in robotics or AI is preferred.

About This Program

This professional one-year program integrates expertise from multiple engineering disciplines to train leaders in the design and management of reliable, safe, and secure autonomous robotic devices. Coursework concentrates on Computer Vision and Machine Learning. Most students complete it in about 1 year.

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 cheaper than about 53% of the California programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $63.3K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as Robotics Engineer, with reported salaries around $125,000.

Develop perception algorithms for real-time environmental sensing in autonomous vehicles.

Budget planners should note $52.9K estimated total tuition (71st 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 University of California, Los Angeles's Master of Engineering - Autonomous Systems most often target Robotics Engineer roles, where reported compensation runs around $125,000. Its focus on Computer Vision and Machine Learning 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 25% growth this decade — verify the current figure on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook before you rely on it.

• 1. Autonomous Systems Engineer
• 2. Robotics Software Developer
• 3. Control Systems Engineer
• 4. AI Perception Specialist

What You'll Learn

• Develop perception algorithms for real-time environmental sensing in autonomous vehicles.
• Design motion planning and decision-making systems for safe robotic navigation.
• Implement feedback control strategies for dynamic cyber-physical systems.
• Apply machine learning techniques to optimize autonomous system performance.

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum features technical core courses in dynamic systems and control, professional development electives, and an industry-sponsored capstone project focused on real-world engineering challenges.

Top Employers

Top employers include Waymo, Tesla, Boston Dynamics, and aerospace firms like Northrop Grumman.

Admissions

Admission to University of California, Los Angeles's Master of Engineering - 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