Enter OTP
Launched in Fall 2023 and housed within the School of Computer Science (SCS), the Bachelor of Science in Robotics (BSR) at Carnegie Mellon University prepares students to design, build, and program robotic systems capable of solving complex real-world challenges. The program emphasizes systems thinking, interdisciplinary teamwork, and an understanding of the ethical and societal implications of robotics and AI.
Students gain mastery in key areas such as computer science, mathematics, robotics algorithms, engineering principles, and effective communication. Hands-on experience, team-based projects, and cutting-edge robotics labs ensure students are industry-ready or well-prepared for graduate study.
Course Overview
Computer Science Core:
First Year Immigration Course
Principles of Imperative Computation
Introduction to Computer Systems
Great Ideas in Theoretical CS
Robotics Core:
Robot Building Practices
General Robotic Systems
Introduction to Feedback Control Systems
Robot Kinematics and Dynamics
Computer Vision
Robotics Systems Engineering
Robotics Capstone
Concepts of Robotics (recommended, but not required)
Ethics Requirement (choose one):
AI and Humanity Seminar
Ethics and Robotics
Electives and Supporting Courses:
3 Robotics electives
1 SCS Elective
36 units from Mellon College of Science/College of Engineering
63 units from Humanities & Social Sciences or Fine Arts
Core@CMU
Free electives (with restrictions)
Optional SCS Honors Research Thesis
Sample Course Sequence:
Year 1: First Year Immigration Course, Principles of Imperative Computation, Mathematical Foundations for Computer Science, Concepts of Robotics, Core@CMU, Interpretation and Argument, Science / Engineering Course, Humanities / Arts Elective
Year 2: Intro to Robotic Building Practices, Introduction to Feedback Control Systems, General Robotic Systems, Great Ideas in Theoretical Computer Science, Humanities / Arts Elective, Foundational Mathematics of Robotics, Probability Course
Year 3: Robot Kinematics and Dynamics, Computer Vision, Robotics Electives, Humanities / Arts Electives, Free Electives
Year 4: Robotics Systems Engineering, Ethics Course, Robotics Capstone, SCS Elective, Science / Engineering Courses, Free Elective
Access to 40+ robotics labs and interdisciplinary research centers
Real-world projects in areas like autonomous vehicles, urban search & rescue, and human-robot interaction
Robotics Capstone for full-cycle design, prototyping, and implementation
Optional undergraduate research thesis through SCS
Cross-disciplinary learning across engineering, design, and humanities
Direct career pathways in robotics, autonomous systems, and AI
Foundation for graduate programs in robotics, computer vision, or intelligent systems
Opportunities for R&D roles in top robotics companies and research labs
Emphasis on ethical reasoning and communication for leadership in tech
Strong alumni network
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 engineerAutonomous systems developerAI/ML specialistResearch scientistAcademic researcherRobotics product developerMechatronics engineer
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Carnegie Mellon University
