Master of Engineering Science (Robotics)
- Commencing Terms
- Term 1, 2 & 3
- Duration
- 1 - 2 Year(s)
- Delivery Mode
- Face-to-face (includes blended)
- Campus
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Kensington
- Codes
- Program code 8338
- CRICOS code 084282A
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Commonwealth Supported Places are available for this program2024 Indicative CSP first year fee
- $9,000*
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2024 Indicative CSP fee to complete degree
- $18,500*
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2024 Indicative first year full fee
- $54,000*
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2024 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $112,500*
Fees
Fees
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Upskill or retrain
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Specialised degree
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Emerging Field
International application pause for 2025 intakes
Applications for international students to study at UNSW in 2025 are currently paused. Please submit your expression of interest to join our application waitlist so we can contact you.
- Overview
- Entry requirements
- What will I study?
- Future careers
- How to apply
- Fees & Scholarships
Overview
UNSW Master of Engineering Science (Robotics) is a 2-year full-time postgraduate degree for students wanting to explore and specialise in the growing field of Robotics and automation. The degree is designed for students with a background in engineering and a recognised undergraduate degree to provide a foundation for continued learning.
The Master of Robotics offers unique opportunities to combine a range of essential elements from a number of disciplines to develop modern day robotics and autonomous systems – and change the world for the better. In this degree, you’ll develop the knowledge, tools and strategies to design and develop state-of-the art-robotic systems that answer human challenges.
You’ll be able to develop and expand your knowledge and skills in your current area of expertise and meet or maintain professional accreditation standards. Postgraduate study also opens the door to increased professional opportunities and greater involvement in the research sphere of this specialisation.
This degree offers core disciplinary knowledge, advanced disciplinary knowledge and an advanced research component in the field of Robotics. It’s a comprehensive postgraduate study option for professional Mechanical/Electrical engineers or Computer Scientists wishing to upgrade their skills or extend their knowledge.
Why study this degree at UNSW?
Advance your knowledge in Robotics with a degree from Australia’s top-ranking Engineering faculty. You’ll study at UNSW’s School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, ranked #1 in Australia and 36th the world in the Shanghai Ranking's Global Ranking of Academic Subjects. We’re the only Australian university ranked in the top 50.
We produce internationally acclaimed research, working closely with industry to provide innovative solutions to the sector. We’re leaders in research into Robotics and Autonomous Systems. Working with state-of-the-art sensors, we apply complex theories to the development of next generation robotic systems and autonomous vehicles. Due to recent investment, we’re now home to many cutting-edge laboratory facilities which are unique nationally.
There’s a range of benefits from studying with us:
- Our staff are experts in their field in Australia and across the world
- We have expertise in a diverse set of Mechanical Engineering disciplines including aerospace, mechanical, advanced manufacturing, mechatronic and robotics
- Cutting-edge laboratory facilities including a robotics laboratory, energy storage laboratory, solar thermal energy laboratory and nuclear energy laboratory
- Our School is a research powerhouse for Mechanical Engineering with strengths in Energy Conversion and Storage, Engineered Medical Solutions and Robotics and Autonomous Systems
- Partnerships with industry-leaders such as Australia Advanced Aerospace Technology, Delta V – Fusion Power Systems, Hyundai NGV, The Boeing Company and Xinjang Goldwind Science & Technology
UNSW Engineering is home to UNSW Robotics and Autonomous Systems. This research group conducts internationally recognised research into the design and analysis of robotic systems, combining core knowledge from control engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering and computer science. We work across a range of projects drawing on our academic staff and research students’ expertise with plenty of opportunities to get involved with our work.
In Robotics and Autonomous Systems, we research and develop methodologies to be used in achieving persistent autonomous operation of aerial and ground vehicles. Our projects include work in:
- Field Robotics
- Medical Robotics: Precision Robotics: Space Robotics
- Control Systems
- Autonomous Urban Transportation Systems
- Agricultural Robotics
Want to see more from UNSW Engineering?
Entry requirements
There are two entry points into this Master of Engineering Science specialisation depending on your cognate background. This provides a structured and supportive option for students with a non-cognate background, while enabling students with cognate backgrounds earlier flexibility in their course selection. Both entry points equate to the same duration of 2 years (96 UOC), and differ only in the order and structure of core foundation courses.
Students with a cognate background:
Entry into the Master’s program requires completion of a 4-year Bachelor of Engineering degree (or equivalent) or 3-year Engineering Science degree in a cognate discipline. A minimum 65% average, or its equivalent, throughout the qualifying bachelor’s degree is mandatory.*
Students with a non-cognate background:
Students with a non-cognate background can enter the Master of Engineering Science via the Graduate Certificate in Engineering Science/Master of Engineering Science pathway.
Entry into the pathway requires completion of a 4-year Bachelor of Engineering degree (or equivalent) or 3-year Engineering Science degree in any engineering discipline.
A minimum 65% average, or its equivalent, throughout the qualifying bachelor’s degree is mandatory.*
Successful applicants will be offered entry to the Master of Engineering Science via the Graduate Certificate in Engineering Science/Master of Engineering Science pathway. Students can transition to the Master of Engineering Science after passing 18 UOC of foundational courses. The total study duration is the same as the entry point for students with a cognate background (2 years/ 96 UOC). There is no separate application required for this pathway. Applicants with non-cognate backgrounds must apply for the Master of Engineering Science to be considered for this entry.
*Qualifications from non-211 Chinese Universities will require a 70% average
| Cognate disciplines | |
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Recognition of Prior Learning (Credit Transfer)
UNSW recognises that many students have professional experience or relevant previous studies. If you have worked in a relevant industry or have relevant previous study experience, you may be eligible for credit points that would enable you to complete your Master of Engineering Science in as little as one year, or another accelerated option listed below dependent on your previous study and experience.
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A 4 year Bachelor Degree with honours (AQF Level 8 equivalent) from any institution in a cognate discipline.
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A 3 year Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7 equivalent) from any institution in a cognate discipline.
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A 3 year Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7 equivalent) from any institution in a cognate discipline.
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.
If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
There are two entry points into this Master of Engineering Science specialisation depending on your cognate background. This provides a structured and supportive option for students with a non-cognate background, while enabling students with cognate backgrounds earlier flexibility in their course selection. Both entry points equate to the same duration of 2 years (96 UOC), and differ only in the order and structure of core foundation courses.
Students with a cognate background:
Entry into the Master’s program requires completion of a 4-year Bachelor of Engineering degree (or equivalent) or 3-year Engineering Science degree in a cognate discipline. A minimum 65% average, or its equivalent, throughout the qualifying bachelor’s degree is mandatory.*
Students with a non-cognate background:
Students with a non-cognate background can enter the Master of Engineering Science via the Graduate Certificate in Engineering Science/Master of Engineering Science pathway.
Entry into the pathway requires completion of a 4-year Bachelor of Engineering degree (or equivalent) or 3-year Engineering Science degree in any engineering discipline.
A minimum 65% average, or its equivalent, throughout the qualifying bachelor’s degree is mandatory.*
Successful applicants will be offered entry to the Master of Engineering Science via the Graduate Certificate in Engineering Science/Master of Engineering Science pathway. Students can transition to the Master of Engineering Science after passing 18 UOC of foundational courses. The total study duration is the same as the entry point for students with a cognate background (2 years/ 96 UOC). There is no separate application required for this pathway. Applicants with non-cognate backgrounds must apply for the Master of Engineering Science to be considered for this entry.
*Qualifications from non-211 Chinese Universities will require a 70% average
| Cognate disciplines | |
|
|
Recognition of Prior Learning (Credit Transfer)
UNSW recognises that many students have professional experience or relevant previous studies. If you have worked in a relevant industry or have relevant previous study experience, you may be eligible for credit points that would enable you to complete your Master of Engineering Science in as little as one year, or another accelerated option listed below dependent on your previous study and experience.
-
A 4 year Bachelor Degree with honours (AQF Level 8 equivalent) from any institution in a cognate discipline.
-
A 3 year Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7 equivalent) from any institution in a cognate discipline.
-
A 3 year Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7 equivalent) from any institution in a cognate discipline.
Admission pathways
If you do not meet the requirements for direct entry into your chosen degree, you may be eligible for a pathway program with UNSW College. UNSW College provides alternative entry options using university-approved content so that you can start your UNSW journey with confidence.
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on whether you are from an English-speaking background or non-English speaking background. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If English is not your first language, you’ll need to provide proof of your English proficiency before you can be given an offer to study at UNSW. You can do this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
Check the specific English language requirements for this program
Program structure
When you choose to study a Master of Engineering Science, you’ll choose from one of 26 specialisations which will help you make your next career move.
Within these specialisations your study will include:
- Enquiry-based courses
- Disciplinary courses
- Engineering and Technical Management Courses.
You’ll be able to tailor your degree to your interests by combining courses in your chosen specialisation with elective courses.
You’ll also have the chance to work on a complex, open-ended enquiry-based research project.
Full program structure
Degree structures can vary depending on your specialisation of choice, the number of courses you choose and timetabling, to give you an indication you can consider the below.
Depending on your specialisation and your previous studies/professional experience you may study:
- At least 4 Disciplinary Courses
- At least 4 Advanced Disciplinary Courses
- At least 1 Engineering and Technical Management Course
- At least 3 enquiry-based courses (which includes a research project)
- At least 4 elective courses (across Disciplinary, Advanced Disciplinary and Engineering and Technical Management courses)
Through the Disciplinary and Advanced Disciplinary Knowledge courses you’ll learn the technical knowledge and skills you need for your chosen specialisation. You’ll also update your knowledge in cutting-edge developments in your area of interest.
Engineering and Technical Management courses help you build skills in communicating and justifying professional decisions, employing ethical approaches to practice, and developing the abilities required for roles more focused on project and or staff management, leadership and strategy.
You’ll complete a research project in this degree within the enquiry-based courses. In this you can choose to develop your Postgraduate Research skills to assist with the research project component of the degree or as your first step towards a Higher Degree Research (PhD) program. Or you can complete a “Launching a Startup” course where you will be equipped with the skills necessary to successfully commercialise your ideas.
Future careers
This degree at UNSW offers a range of professional opportunities in the growing field of Robotics upon graduation. As organisations and engineers find new and unique ways to apply robotics to existing and emerging fields the types of roles you can pursue abound.
With a degree in Robotics Engineering from UNSW you could pursue roles including a Robotics Engineer, Project Engineer and Systems Engineer to just scratch the surface. Many jobs in this field are yet to be imagined.
Pursue a range of careers in industries and sectors, including:
- Automation
- Robotics
- Engineering Design
- Propulsion Systems
- Control Systems
- Technology
UNSW Engineering graduates are some of the most sought-after professional engineers in Australia and abroad thanks to the reputation of our research and teaching.
How to apply
Applications must be submitted through our Apply Online portal. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term. Some high-demand programs and Faculties with limited places may have an earlier application deadline or commencement date. Find out more.
Ready to start your application?
For most international students, applications are submitted via our Apply Online service. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term.
Some high-demand programs with limited places, may have an earlier application deadline or may have an earlier commencement date. For more information visit our international applicant information page.
Ready to start your application?
Fees & Scholarships
$9,000*
$18,500*
All places within this degree are Commonwealth supported. This means that if you receive an offer from UNSW Sydney as a domestic student, you will have a substantial proportion of your fees subsidised by the Australian government. Start your application today with our guide on how to apply.
*The indicative Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) fees are an estimate based on the relevant student contribution band/s for a Commonwealth Supported Place undertaking a standard full-time load of 48 units of credit per year (1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load/1 EFTSL). To find out more about Commonwealth Supported Places visit Postgraduate Commonwealth Support.
Indicative fees are a guide only and have been calculated based on the typical enrolment patterns of students undertaking the degree/program. The indicative fee listed here is an estimate for tuition only and excludes non-tuition fees and charges. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year of enrolment, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (48 units of credit (UOC) per year).
You should not rely on indicative fees as fee increases are assessed when required and may exceed the indicative figures listed here. Actual fees are calculated on enrolment. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.
*Fees are subject to annual review by the University and may increase annually, with the new fees effective from the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only, other fees and charges are not included. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year to enrol, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (8 courses per year).
Indicative fees are a guide for comparison only based on current conditions and available data. You should not rely on indicative fees. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.
Indicative fees to complete the program have been calculated based on a percentage increase for every year of the program. Fee increases are assessed annually and may exceed the indicative figures listed here.
Indicative fees to complete the program include tuition plus an estimate of study-related costs of approximately $1,000 per year. To find out more about other costs, visit UNSW International.
Scholarships
At UNSW, we award over $83 million in scholarships each year. We pride ourselves on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, our range of scholarships, prizes and awards can support your journey.
Featured scholarship
The UNSW Women in Engineering Research Scholarship was established to assist women of high academic achievement with an interest in a research and/or an academic career in engineering. UNSW Engineering offers two Women in Engineering Top-up Scholarships every semester.
Apply here and search for ‘Engineering’ in the keywords.
QS World University Rankings, 2025.
AFR Top 100 Future leaders Award.
#1 Australian uni attended by start-up founders.
I love that everything in the world is being engineered by somebody.
