'The demand is so high'
CU Engineering launches interdisciplinary robotics program, graduate degrees
Engineering graduate students have a new degree option at the University of Colorado Boulder: robotics.
The CU Board of Regents has established a master’s and PhD program in robotics. It will provide students an education merging hardware and software engineering, mathematics and artificial intelligence into a single academic program.
“Robotics is increasingly a key driver for both the future of work and engineering education,” said Alessandro Roncone, an assistant professor and associate director of the robotics program. “This program leverages strengths across the College of Engineering and Applied Science and positions CU Boulder as a leader.”
The program officially began in fall 2023, and interest is already strong, said Sean Humbert, a professor and program director.
“Students really want a PhD in robotics, and employers want that education. I’ve spoken with other university robotics programs that are turning down students with external fellowships because the demand is so high,” Humbert said.
The program brings together a wide array of faculty, research and class options from across CU Engineering departments.
Students enrolled in the program can choose from more than 40 different courses taught by leading researchers with strong expertise in key areas, including field robotics, reasoning and assurance, smart materials, human-centered robotics and biomedical robotics.
“This is a field where the exciting research is, and our program tears down walls between majors so students can receive an interdisciplinary education,” Humbert said. “Students who used to want to take these kinds of courses had to look at multiple different departments every semester and file all kinds of petitions to make the credits work. The robotics program solves all of that.”
In addition to a research-focused PhD, students enrolled in the master’s program can choose from thesis and non-thesis options, providing graduates with opportunities in academia and technical leadership positions in large industry, startups, emergency services and government.
“Our program is designed to evolve with the rapidly changing technology landscape, well-positioning students for high-demand roles across multiple sectors,” Roncone said.
Roncone added that with Boulder and Colorado’s Front Range being home to many businesses active in robotics, there are strong opportunities for educational partnerships and nearby career options for students and graduates.
“With this program, CU Boulder will be at the forefront of a trend that is set to grow nationwide over the next five to 10 years,” Roncone said. “We are providing an unparalleled environment for growth and discovery.”