Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI)

Programme overview

The Doctor of Philosophy in Robotics is a full-time, on‑campus, research-led doctoral programme that prepares students for world-class research and leadership roles in robotics and autonomous systems. Research themes include perception and applied machine learning, human‑robot interaction, cognitive and soft robotics, and swarm intelligence. Students undertake supervised research with access to advanced equipment and collaborate with faculty and industry partners.

What you'll study

The degree is primarily research-based; coursework is intended to provide the skills necessary to complete the thesis under a supervisory panel. The minimum requirement is 60 credits composed of core courses, electives, an internship, an advanced research methods course, and a research thesis.

• Core courses: four courses totaling 16 credits. Core coursework is mandatory and designed to equip students with essential knowledge and skills for their research.
• Electives: at least two electives (minimum 8 credits) chosen in consultation with the supervisory panel to match prior background and the planned research project.
• Internship (INT899): an industry internship worth 2 credits; students must complete at least one internship of minimum three months and must have completed 24 credit hours before undertaking it. The internship blends practical experience with academic learning.
• Advanced Research Methods (RES899): a 2‑credit course that prepares students to conduct rigorous, ethical research, covering research integrity, AI ethics, methodology development, peer review, and presentation of research.
• Research thesis: a 32‑credit thesis project representing the core of the PhD.

Entry requirements

Admission follows the university’s graduate admission process; specific entry criteria are detailed by MBZUAI. Applicants are evaluated for suitability to undertake a research programme and will have a supervisory panel assigned to design an appropriate course plan based on prior qualifications and the proposed research.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for research and leadership roles across academia, industry and government. The programme targets those pursuing careers as academic researchers and educators, industrial R&D leads, and technical specialists in autonomous systems and robotics.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

MBZUAI operates graduate funding and fellowship initiatives (for example, the Aspire PhD Fellowship Program is listed among university opportunities). Prospective students should consult the university’s admissions and fellowship pages for current scholarship and funding options and eligibility details.