University of Dayton

How this program compares

At an estimated $13.3K in total tuition, the Graduate Certificate in Autonomous Systems sits about 21% above the $11.0K average for AI certificate programs in our database — placing it in the 72nd percentile on cost among the 180 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 STEM field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required. Relevant technical background or work experience in robotics or control systems is preferred.

About This Program

This interdisciplinary program prepares professionals to meet the demand for expertise in automated decision-making. It focuses on the design and advancement of self-governing physical and virtual machines. Coursework concentrates on Computer Vision and Robotics & Autonomous Systems. Most students complete it in about 1 year.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as Robotics Engineer, with reported salaries around $115,000.

Design control algorithms for autonomous vehicle navigation and decision-making.

Budget planners should note $13.3K estimated total tuition (72nd percentile among AI certificate programs, above the $11.0K average). Applicants should weigh that premium against the program's outcomes and brand.

It is one of 17 AI-related programs we track in Ohio, of which about 41% offer an online option. On price, it comes in cheaper than about 69% of the Ohio programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $35.1K.

Career Outcomes

University of Dayton positions this certificate track for Robotics Engineer careers — typical offers cluster around $115,000. Its focus on Computer Vision 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 22% 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. UAV Systems Integrator
• 4. Perception Algorithm Specialist

What You'll Learn

• Design control algorithms for autonomous vehicle navigation and decision-making.
• Implement sensor fusion techniques for environmental perception in dynamic settings.
• Develop motion planning strategies for safe operation of unmanned systems.
• Integrate AI and machine learning models for real-time autonomous operations.

Curriculum Highlights

The 15-credit certificate includes five courses covering theoretical and practical concepts. Themes include advanced programming, data structures, human factors, and the advancement of autonomous system design.

Top Employers

Top employers include Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and government agencies like DARPA and NASA.

Admissions

Admission to University of Dayton's Graduate Certificate in Autonomous Systems generally expects a bachelor's degree. The GRE is not required 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