MSc Robotics Programming and Automation
Course Overview
The UK is experiencing a surge in the adoption of robotics in manufacturing industries, boosting productivity and efficiency (1). Moreover, industries such as agriculture, healthcare and retail are discovering the benefits of automation, so the potential of robotics and future opportunities for growth are significant. As the range of industry 4.0 environments expands and the use of robots and the Internet of Things (IoT) increases, so do employment opportunities. A wealth of career opportunities await highly qualified and talented graduates with expertise in programming and robotics algorithms, and the future employment prospects in this sector look bright.The University of Bolton's MSc in Robotics Programming and Automation is ideal for graduates with a computing or software engineering background. Our expert team will support you in developing vital skills in robotics automation and programming, as well as in business and marketing. The course focuses on integrating robotics into various industries, preparing you for high-demand roles in research, development, and implementation of cutting-edge automation technologies. We'll support you in developing wide-ranging knowledge of current challenges, tactics and methodologies, covering essential areas such as machine learning, robotics perception and control, robotic process automation (RPA), and human-robot interaction.
While studying at our town centre campus in the North of England, you'll consider the latest methods and development techniques in software robotics and explore the interaction between robotics and artificial intelligence. Our expert team will support you in developing a detailed understanding of advanced robotics techniques and their integration with machine learning algorithms. You'll explore the principles, techniques, and applications of RPA in business processes and build upon your undergraduate research skills, learning advanced techniques to support your professional practice. Our dedicated tutors will also promote lifelong learning skills, creativity and critical thinking so you're ready to adapt as the industry evolves throughout your career.
Interpersonal and transferable skills are also vital, so we'll challenge you to develop sought-after communication, problem-solving, analytical, self-management, and decision-making skills. Our dedicated team will focus on helping you gain the skills employers value and a detailed understanding of the technologies and methods underpinning robotics programming and automation.
(1) https://www.statista.com/outlook/tmo/robotics/united-kingdom accessed on 29 January 2024
Highlights
- By studying for your postgraduate degree with us, you can deepen your knowledge of programming and automation while experiencing life at our supportive, student-focused, multicultural campus in the heart of the North West of England.
- Bolton University's Master's in Robotics Programming and Automation emphasises working collaboratively with industry partners and offers a comprehensive programme of relevant industrial topics.
- We continually monitor and update the content of our MSc programmes so they offer the best preparation for the industry.
- The success of our postgraduate students is directly related to the practical research aspects covered in the course laboratory work.
- For the coursework elements of the degree, you'll consider realistic scenarios that help prepare you for your postgraduate career. Completing this work will develop your understanding of the technical concepts underpinning robotics programming and automation and the outputs required by employers, such as technical proposals or reports to management.
- Completing a capstone project will build your subject specialist knowledge and understanding and provide a showcase of your skills, ready to impress employers and clients.
Key Features
- You'll have access to specialist labs featuring industry-leading technologies, supporting you in developing skills without limitations.
- Industry partners provide relevant, up-to-date input to our teaching and live student projects.
- Our team of highly knowledgeable and enthusiastic lecturers offer face-to-face sessions and one-to-one support, ensuring you can access help and advice when you need it.
- We'll also support you in gaining lifelong learning skills, which will help you take ownership of your professional development for the future, maximising your potential for success.
- By choosing to study with us, you'll have the chance to enjoy Bolton's many shops, bars, restaurants and leisure facilities. Nearby Manchester is one of the UK's most multicultural and lively cities, and the Northwest of England is renowned for its beautiful countryside, coastline, and heritage.
Entry Requirements
- Normally, you should have at least an upper second class (2.1) honours degree in a relevant subject. Examples of relevant subjects include robotics, computing, business, software engineering and mechanical engineering.
- For applicants without a first or upper second, then a lower second class honours degree will be considered on a case-by-case basis (particularly for candidates with good relevant industrial experience).
- We'll consider applications where appropriate work experience can be demonstrated in lieu of, or in addition to, the published academic qualifications in line with the University’s Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) procedures.
- You may be required to attend an interview and/or provide a portfolio of work.
- If English isn’t your first language, you’ll also need IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any band (or equivalent). We also accept a range of other English language qualifications – please visit our English Language Requirements web page for more details.
Where changes are made to material information contained in this course description or a decision is taken to suspend a course between the offer of admissions and enrolment, we will inform applicants at the earliest possible opportunity and will outline the various options available to the applicant.
Career Opportunities
Bolton University's MSc in Robotics Programming and Automation is ideal for computer science graduates and experienced computing professionals. Through hands-on projects and coursework, you'll develop the skills needed to design, build, and manage automated systems.
As a graduate of this postgraduate degree, you'll possess a solid understanding of the core technologies underpinning robotics programming and automation and be able to demonstrate your skills in applying machine learning and RPA concepts and methodologies to solve problems. You'll also be able to demonstrate vital transferable skills, including analytical skills, communication, creativity and innovation, independence, logic, numeracy, project management and organisation.
What can I do with this qualification?
Employers range from established big-tech firms to ambitious young start-ups with opportunities across the UK and the globe. Robotics is already common in areas such as manufacturing, military defence, the energy sector, life sciences, and agriculture, and it has significant potential for growth in all these areas. A broader range of industries, such as retail, food and drink, healthcare, logistics and transport, are also exploring robotics, and opportunities will likely grow in the coming years. As a graduate of this course, your skills will be in high demand. Additionally, your lifelong learning skills will support you in customising your skill set, adapting, and specialising as your career and the fields of robotics and automation develop.
This course also paves the way for PhD research studies in robotics programming, automation and computing-related subjects.
Alternative career options
Graduates can also use the qualification as a stepping-stone into a range of other careers. Some of these roles may require relevant experience and/or postgraduate study. Possible fields include:
- Artificial intelligence
- Data science
- Business intelligence
- Computer vision
- Finance
- Commerce
- Quality management
- Research and development
- Teaching and education
- Public services and local government
- Information management
- Digital communications
Fees & Funding
Home/EU Fees
No fee information is currently available, please contact the University of Bolton’s Academic Fees team by emailing AcademicFees@bolton.ac.uk for more information.
International Fees
No fee information is currently available, please contact the University of Bolton’s Academic Fees team by emailing AcademicFees@bolton.ac.uk for more information.
Important note regarding tuition fees for the 2025-26 academic year: EU nationals who meet residency requirements (have settled or pre-settled status) may be eligible for 'Home' fee status. If you do not meet these residency requirements, overseas fees will apply. Irish citizens living in the UK or Ireland will be eligible for 'Home' fee status under the Common Travel Area arrangement. Please read the student finance for EU students web page on www.gov.uk for information.
The fees for a student's course of study will be set for the normal duration of that course subject only to inflationary increases – measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI) recorded in March each year to take effect for subsequent start dates.
How to apply
Home Applicants
Course application details are unavailable at present
International Applicants
Course application details are unavailable at present
Partner Organisation Applicants
Course application details are unavailable at present
Teaching & Assessment
We take a blended learning approach, combining face-to-face sessions and practical work as appropriate. You can expect a mix of lectures, seminars, tutorials, discussion groups, guest speakers, master classes, self-directed learning, e-learning, and online sessions and support. As well as attending formally timetabled sessions, we'll expect you to spend considerable time in independent study. Background reading, completing online activities and assessment work, and preparing for sessions will be essential to your success.
Assessment is varied and typically involves written coursework, project work, oral assessments and portfolios. Summative assessments contribute to your final module mark and allow you to demonstrate that you have met the learning outcomes. Normally, you'll receive written feedback with the opportunity to receive a more detailed verbal explanation.
You'll also participate in formative assessments that help you learn, provide you with feedback and inform your development, though these don't count towards your final module mark. These will help identify any areas that would benefit from extra attention on your part or where you need additional support from your tutor.
We use a blended learning and teaching style, including online delivery and engagement where appropriate.
The university will use all reasonable endeavours to deliver your course as described in its published material and the programme specification for the academic year in which you begin your course. The university considers changes to courses very carefully and the university will minimise any changes. Please be aware that our courses are subject to review on an ongoing basis and changes may be necessary due to legitimate staffing, financial, regulatory and academic reasons. The content of course modules and mode of associated assessments may be updated on an annual basis. This is to ensure that all modules are up-to-date and responsive to employment and sector needs. The published course material and the programme specification contain indicative ‘optional modules’ that may be subject to change due to circumstances outside of our control. For this reason, we cannot guarantee to run any specific optional module.
