Cranfield University

What you'll study

The programme combines core taught modules with applied laboratory work, group design projects and an individual research dissertation. Core subject areas include robot kinematics and dynamics, control systems for robotics, sensors and actuators, and perception (computer vision and sensor fusion). Students learn software and hardware integration through modules on robot programming, real-time systems and middleware, plus machine learning for robotics and autonomy.

Typical modules and activities you may encounter:

• Robot Kinematics & Dynamics: forward/inverse kinematics, dynamics, trajectory generation and modelling of manipulators.
• Control for Robotic Systems: classical and modern control, state estimation, feedback linearisation and robust control techniques.
• Perception and Sensor Fusion: camera and lidar processing, SLAM, multi-sensor fusion and object recognition.
• Machine Learning for Robotics: supervised and reinforcement learning approaches applied to perception and control.
• Mobile Robotics and Autonomy: navigation, path planning, localisation and autonomy stacks.
• Embedded and Real-time Systems: microcontrollers, ROS/middleware, real-time constraints and hardware interfacing.
• Human–Robot Interaction and Safety: design considerations, ergonomics and standards for collaborative systems.
• Group Design Project: multidisciplinary team project focussing on design, build and test of a robotic system.
• Individual Research Dissertation: an extended research or development project, often undertaken with industrial partners or research centres.

Teaching methods include lectures, laboratory practicals, workshops, project supervision and guest seminars from industry. Assessment is by coursework, design reports, exams, demonstrations and the final dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree (typically a UK 2:1 or international equivalent) in engineering, computer science, electronic engineering, mechatronics, mathematics or a closely related discipline. Applicants with a lower-class degree but significant relevant industrial experience may also be considered.

Practical experience with programming (for example C++, Python, MATLAB), basic control theory and linear algebra is expected. Experience with sensors, embedded systems or machine learning is advantageous.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through a recognised qualification. Additional documentation such as a CV, academic transcripts and references will be required as part of the application.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of roles across robotics, automation and autonomous systems. Typical job titles include robotics engineer, autonomy engineer, controls engineer, computer vision engineer, systems integration engineer and research/development engineer. Employers are found in sectors such as manufacturing and industrial automation, automotive and autonomous vehicles, aerospace and defence, medical devices and service robotics, and technology consultancies.

The programme also prepares students for doctoral research and roles in R&D where advanced simulation, algorithm development and hardware prototyping skills are required. Cranfield’s industry-focused projects and links enhance opportunities for placements, collaborative research and direct recruitment.

Why study at Cranfield University

Cranfield is a specialist postgraduate university with strong links to industry and an emphasis on applied engineering and systems integration. The campus provides access to dedicated laboratories, workshops and test facilities where students can build and trial robotic systems. Small cohort sizes mean close supervision and extensive practical contact time.

The university’s partnerships with companies across automotive, aerospace, defence and manufacturing support real-world projects, guest lectures and career connections. Cranfield’s focus on translating research into industry-relevant solutions makes the programme well suited to students seeking hands-on experience and direct routes into engineering and technology roles.