University of Pennsylvania
MS in Design - Robotics and Autonomous Systems
Last reviewed June 2026 by the AI Graduate editorial team. Program data is compiled and verified from official university sources — see our methodology.
How this program compares
Budget-wise, $47.5K puts this master's program at the 66th percentile on cost — about 11% 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 design, engineering, computer science, or a related field is required, along with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and relevant portfolio or project experience in robotics or autonomous systems. Prerequisites may include coursework in programming, linear algebra, and mechanics.
About This Program
This post-professional degree explores architectural design through the lenses of AI, robotic fabrication, and autonomous workflows. Coursework concentrates on Machine Learning and Deep Learning. Most students complete it in about 1 year.
Graduates frequently move into roles such as Robotics Engineer, with reported salaries around $120,000.
Design and implement perception algorithms for robotic sensing and environmental understanding.
Budget planners should note $47.5K estimated total tuition (66th percentile among AI master's programs, above the $42.9K average). Applicants should weigh that premium against the program's outcomes and brand.
It is one of 60 AI-related programs we track in Pennsylvania, of which about 43% offer an online option. On price, it comes in cheaper than about 58% of the Pennsylvania programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $81.1K.
Career Outcomes
The MS in Design - Robotics and Autonomous Systems at University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) is oriented toward Robotics Engineer hiring, with alumni reporting pay near $120,000. Its focus on Machine Learning and Deep Learning 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 Design Engineer
- 2. Autonomous Systems Developer
- 3. Perception and Planning Specialist
- 4. Robotics Research Engineer
What You'll Learn
- Design and implement perception algorithms for robotic sensing and environmental understanding
- Develop motion planning and pathfinding strategies for autonomous navigation
- Integrate sensor data for accurate localization, mapping, and state estimation
- Engineer control systems for stable and adaptive robotic behaviors in dynamic environments
Curriculum Highlights
The structure features design-fabrication studios, RAS theory, advanced programming, cyber-physical systems, and scientific research and writing.
Top Employers
Top employers include autonomous vehicle companies like Waymo and Tesla, robotics firms such as Boston Dynamics and Path Robotics, and tech giants like Amazon and Google.
Admissions
Admission to University of Pennsylvania's MS in Design - Robotics and 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
What distinguishes the MS in Design - Robotics and Autonomous Systems at University of Pennsylvania?
This post-professional degree explores architectural design through the lenses of AI, robotic fabrication, and autonomous workflows.
Can you complete the MS in Design - Robotics and Autonomous Systems online through University of Pennsylvania?
This program is listed as on-campus, so plan for on-campus attendance. University of Pennsylvania may offer other online AI options — verify current formats before applying.
How much does the MS in Design - Robotics and Autonomous Systems cost?
We estimate total tuition at roughly $47.5K, above the $42.9K average for comparable AI master's programs in our database. Tuition changes yearly and excludes fees and living costs, so treat this as a planning figure and confirm with University of Pennsylvania.
Does the MS in Design - Robotics and Autonomous Systems require the GRE?
No — University of Pennsylvania does not require the GRE for this program, which is increasingly common among AI programs. A strong transcript, projects and recommendation letters carry more weight.
How long does the MS in Design - Robotics and Autonomous Systems take to complete?
Most students finish in about 1 year for full-time enrollment. Accelerated or part-time tracks may change the timeline.
What jobs can you get with the MS in Design - Robotics and Autonomous Systems?
Graduates commonly pursue roles such as Robotics Engineer, with reported pay around $120,000. Actual outcomes depend on your prior experience, portfolio and location — see our AI salary guide for current, source-cited ranges.
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