Enter OTP
The Master of Science in Robotics (MSR) at Carnegie Mellon University is a full-time, two-year research-intensive graduate program designed to mirror the first two years of a PhD in robotics. Offered through the renowned Robotics Institute, this program balances foundational coursework with in-depth, supervised research, equipping students for advanced roles in research and development or seamless entry into doctoral programs.
While the program does not provide guaranteed funding, it offers access to world-class research labs and faculty expertise across all subfields of robotics. Students work closely with an advisor and thesis committee to explore and contribute to the field’s cutting-edge advancements.
Course Overview:
Core Courses (1 course from each area):
Perception: Computer Vision, Sensor Systems, Range Data, Tactile/Force Sensors, Inertial Guidance
Cognition: AI for Robotics, Knowledge Representation, Planning, Machine Learning
Action: Kinematics, Control Systems, Mobile Robots, Locomotion
Electives:
Three graduate-level electives selected in consultation with the advisor to support research goals.
Research Component:
Supervised hands-on research under a faculty advisor.
Culminates in a written thesis demonstrating mastery and context within the field.
A public oral presentation is required.
Thesis must be archived as a CMU Technical Report.
Oversight by a faculty thesis committee.
Full-scale research immersion in CMU’s top-ranked Robotics Institute
Access to over 30 specialized robotics labs spanning human-robot interaction, haptics, robotic vision, and field robotics
Optional research-aligned internships with academic or industrial partners
Regular progress reviews ensure sustained development and feedback
Close mentorship from leading robotics faculty through the thesis committee
Excellent preparation for PhD programs in robotics, AI, or related fields
Strong career outcomes in industry, government, and academic research labs
Personalized research specialization in areas like robotic vision, haptics, field robotics, machine learning
Graduates regularly contribute to high-impact publications and open-source robotics platforms
Deadline details: The Common Application Regular Decision deadline for all first-year and transfer applicants to Drama and Music is December 1, 2024, and all pre-screen/portfolio materials must be submitted by December 1, 2024. The Common Application Regular Decision deadline for all first-year and transfer applicants to Architecture, Art and Design is January 2, 2025, and the portfolio requirements must be submitted by January 10, 2025.SAT/ACT Update: Carnegie Mellon is test optional for undergraduate applicants, which means the submission of SAT or ACT results is not required. However, School of Computer Science applicants are strongly encouraged to submit either an SAT or ACT score, including the math subscore.SAT/ACT Score Reporting: If you choose to submit scores: note that we allow superscoring of SAT test results, but we are unable to accept superscored results for the ACT exam due to the composite score included in the score report.English Language Proficiency- https://www.cmu.edu/admission/admission/international-applicants#languageRecommendations: School Report- Required, Counselor Recommendation- Required, Mid Year Report- Required, Final Report- Required, Teacher Evaluation(s): 1 Required, 1 Optional, Other Evaluation(s): 0 Required, 1 Optional.Recommendation Requirements: We require two letters of recommendation, one from a high school counselor and one from a teacher. While we'll accept a third recommendation from a teacher or other recommender, we require our committees to consider only two recommendations in the decision-making process.Writing Requirements: Common App essay- Required, Writing Supplement- 3 Required Questions.Robotics researcherR&D engineerAutonomous systems developerAI/ML researcherPhD candidateAcademic researcherRobotics software engineerGovernment lab researcher
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
Carnegie Mellon University
