University of Wisconsin–Madison
Graduate Certificate in 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
University of Wisconsin–Madison's Graduate Certificate in Autonomous Systems lists about $6K total tuition — roughly 45% below the $11.0K AI certificate average (26th percentile in our data). It is one of the 54% of programs in our database offered fully or partly online.
Admission Snapshot
Typical admitted student: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics, or a related field, with a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0. Prior coursework in linear algebra, differential equations, and programming is typically required or recommended.
About This Program
A graduate certificate focused on providing engineers with technical expertise in AI-driven data analysis and the development of intelligent applications. Coursework concentrates on Robotics & Autonomous Systems and Tech. 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 control algorithms for autonomous systems and mobile robots.
Budget planners should note $6K estimated total tuition (26th percentile among AI certificate programs, below the $11.0K average). That makes it one of the more affordable options for students weighing return on investment.
It is one of 25 AI-related programs we track in Wisconsin, of which about 56% offer an online option. On price, it comes in cheaper than about 100% of the Wisconsin programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $34.7K.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of University of Wisconsin–Madison's Graduate Certificate in Autonomous Systems most often target Robotics Engineer roles, where reported compensation runs around $120,000. Its focus on Robotics & Autonomous Systems and Tech 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 15% growth this decade — verify the current figure on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook before you rely on it.
- 1. Autonomous Systems Engineer
- 2. Robotics Engineer
- 3. Controls Systems Designer
- 4. Perception and Computer Vision Engineer
What You'll Learn
- Design and implement control algorithms for autonomous systems and mobile robots
- Integrate sensor data from multiple sources for accurate environmental perception and localization
- Develop and optimize path planning and motion control strategies for autonomous navigation
- Apply machine learning and computer vision techniques to enable intelligent autonomous decision-making
Curriculum Highlights
The nine-credit structure includes core study in machine learning and generative AI for engineering, alongside electives in statistics or decision analysis.
Top Employers
Top employers in autonomous systems and robotics include Tesla, Boston Dynamics, Google Waymo, Ford, General Motors, Amazon Robotics, and defense contractors like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman.
Admissions
Admission to University of Wisconsin–Madison's Graduate Certificate in Autonomous Systems generally expects a bachelor's degree in related field. 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 makes University of Wisconsin–Madison's Graduate Certificate in Autonomous Systems stand out?
A graduate certificate focused on providing engineers with technical expertise in AI-driven data analysis and the development of intelligent applications.
Can you complete the Graduate Certificate in Autonomous Systems online through University of Wisconsin–Madison?
Yes — University of Wisconsin–Madison lists this program as online, and it can be taken part-time. Confirm on-campus residency requirements, if any, on the official program page.
How much does the Graduate Certificate in Autonomous Systems cost?
We estimate total tuition at roughly $6K, below the $11.0K average for comparable AI certificate 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 Wisconsin–Madison.
Does the Graduate Certificate in Autonomous Systems require the GRE?
No — University of Wisconsin–Madison 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 Graduate Certificate in Autonomous Systems take to complete?
Most students finish in about 1 year, though part-time schedules can extend that. Accelerated or part-time tracks may change the timeline.
What jobs can you get with the Graduate Certificate in 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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Visit the official program page for the latest deadlines, tuition, and application requirements.