Worcester Polytechnic Institute
MS in Robotics Engineering - Autonomous Vehicles
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, $50.7K puts this master's program at the 69th percentile on cost — about 18% above the $42.9K average across 394 comparable listings. It runs on a part-time schedule (on-campus).
Admission Snapshot
Typical admitted student: A bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, or related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, along with prerequisites in programming, linear algebra, and control systems.
About This Program
This on-campus program offers project-based, experiential learning using state-of-the-art technology to prepare students for leadership roles in the robotics industry. Coursework concentrates on Computer Vision and Robotics & Autonomous Systems. Most students complete it in about 2 years.
Graduates frequently move into roles such as Robotics Engineer, with reported salaries around $115,000.
Model, simulate, and control autonomous vehicles for stability and maneuverability.
Budget planners should note $50.7K estimated total tuition (69th 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 27 AI-related programs we track in Massachusetts, of which about 56% offer an online option. On price, it comes in cheaper than about 62% of the Massachusetts programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $58.9K.
Career Outcomes
The MS in Robotics Engineering - Autonomous Vehicles at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (Worcester, Massachusetts) is oriented toward Robotics Engineer hiring, with alumni reporting pay near $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 15% growth this decade — verify the current figure on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook before you rely on it.
- 1. Autonomous Vehicle Engineer
- 2. Robotics Software Developer
- 3. Perception Systems Specialist
- 4. Control Systems Engineer
What You'll Learn
- Model, simulate, and control autonomous vehicles for stability and maneuverability.
- Integrate AI for perception, decision-making, and environmental sensing.
- Design motion planning algorithms for navigation in dynamic environments.
- Develop embedded software and sensor fusion for real-time robotic operations.
Curriculum Highlights
The 30-credit-hour curriculum includes a distribution of core robotics courses and electives, with options to complete either a capstone project or a research thesis.
Top Employers
Top employers include Tesla, Waymo, Boston Dynamics, and automotive firms like General Motors and Ford.
Admissions
Admission to Worcester Polytechnic Institute's MS in Robotics Engineering - Autonomous Vehicles 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 Robotics Engineering - Autonomous Vehicles at Worcester Polytechnic Institute?
This on-campus program offers project-based, experiential learning using state-of-the-art technology to prepare students for leadership roles in the robotics industry.
Does Worcester Polytechnic Institute offer the MS in Robotics Engineering - Autonomous Vehicles in an online format?
This program is listed as on-campus, so plan for on-campus attendance. Worcester Polytechnic Institute may offer other online AI options — verify current formats before applying.
How much does the MS in Robotics Engineering - Autonomous Vehicles cost?
We estimate total tuition at roughly $50.7K, 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 Worcester Polytechnic Institute.
Does the MS in Robotics Engineering - Autonomous Vehicles require the GRE?
No — Worcester Polytechnic Institute 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 Robotics Engineering - Autonomous Vehicles take to complete?
Most students finish in about 2 years, though part-time schedules can extend that. Accelerated or part-time tracks may change the timeline.
What jobs can you get with the MS in Robotics Engineering - Autonomous Vehicles?
Graduates commonly pursue roles such as Robotics Engineer, with reported pay around $115,000. Actual outcomes depend on your prior experience, portfolio and location — see our AI salary guide for current, source-cited ranges.
Student Reviews
Loading reviews...
Ready to Apply?
Visit the official program page for the latest deadlines, tuition, and application requirements.