University of West Florida

How this program compares

At an estimated $15.9K in total tuition, the PhD in Intelligent Systems & Robotics sits roughly 82% below the $87.2K average for AI doctoral programs in our database — placing it in the 0th percentile on cost among the 36 we track at this level. It runs on a full-time schedule (on-campus).

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: A master's degree in a related field such as robotics, computer science, electrical engineering, or mechanical engineering is typically required, along with a strong research background, minimum GPA of 3.5, and evidence of prior research experience.

About This Program

A research-focused doctoral program offered in partnership with the Institute for Human and Machine Cognition (IHMC) to develop next-generation educators and innovators in robotics. Coursework concentrates on Computer Vision and Machine Learning. Most students complete it in about 1.75 years.

Design and implement intelligent control algorithms for robotic systems.

At roughly $15.9K total, University of West Florida's PhD in Intelligent Systems & Robotics sits below the $87.2K average among AI doctoral programs we track — the 0th percentile on price. That makes it one of the more affordable options for students weighing return on investment.

It is one of 50 AI-related programs we track in Florida, of which about 42% offer an online option. On price, it comes in cheaper than about 56% of the Florida programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $25.9K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as AI Research Scientist, with reported salaries around $130,000.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of University of West Florida's PhD in Intelligent Systems & Robotics most often target AI Research Scientist roles, where reported compensation runs around $130,000. Its focus on Computer Vision and Machine Learning maps directly to how employers 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 Research Scientist
• 2. AI Robotics Engineer
• 3. Autonomous Systems Developer
• 4. University Professor in Robotics

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement intelligent control algorithms for robotic systems
• Develop AI models for perception, navigation, and decision-making in robots
• Conduct original research advancing autonomous systems and human-robot interaction
• Apply machine learning to solve complex robotics challenges

Curriculum Highlights

The program includes foundational AI courses in knowledge representation and machine learning, followed by individualized research curricula in areas like computer vision and aerial robotics.

Top Employers

Top employers include tech companies like Google, Boston Dynamics, NVIDIA, and research institutions such as NASA and DARPA.

Admissions

Admission to University of West Florida's PhD in Intelligent Systems & Robotics generally expects a master'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