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Explore top online robotics engineering courses

Develop in-demand robotics engineering skills with flexible edX courses and programs from top schools and industry leaders.

Key takeaways

  • Explore flexible edX courses to build in-demand skills in programming, AI, and engineering for careers across robotics-related industries.
  • Build foundations in computer science, linear algebra, calculus, physics, and probability to support robotics design, motion modeling, and decision-making systems.
  • Roles in robotics engineering pay a median of $117,750 (BLS) with 9% job growth projected.

Popular online robotics engineering courses with certificates

What you'll learn in robotics engineering

Robotics is a branch of engineering focused on creating, developing, and implementing autonomous machines designed to emulate human actions and behaviors.

The study of robotics combines principles from mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science to create systems that interact with the physical world. Robotics has applications in various career fields, including science, engineering, technology, and mathematics.

Why learn robotics?

Learning robotics can help you:

  • Prepare for a stable, high-paying career. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), mechanical engineering jobs, including robotics engineering jobs, are projected to grow by 9% from 2024 to 2034.
  • Enter in-demand sectors like artificial intelligence, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing.
  • Build skills in coding, electronics, and design thinking, combining technical expertise and creativity.

Browse online Robotics Certificates

Find new interests and advance your career opportunities

Stand out in your field

Use the knowledge and skills you have gained to drive impact at work and grow your career.

Learn at your own pace

On your computer, tablet or phone, online courses make learning flexible to fit your busy life.

Earn a valuable credential

Showcase your key skills and valuable knowledge.

Certificates

Careers you can pursue with a robotics background

Robotics engineers identify problems, design sophisticated solutions, and redefine what's possible in our world. Robotics engineering skills can be applied to multiple career paths and industries, including construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and aerospace.

Here are a few positions that you may qualify for with robotics experience, along with salary data from the BLS:

Robotics engineer

Robotics engineers research, create, and maintain robots and other automated systems. Responsibilities include designing and testing robotic sensors, programming software, and developing solutions that can improve a machine's performance, safety, and reliability.

While licensure may not be required for every entry-level mechanical or robotics engineer position, a Professional Engineering (PE) license may be needed as you advance in your career.

  • Required education: Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field from an accredited program and state licensure
  • Median annual salary (May 2024): $117,750

Why learn robotics engineering online with edX

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Steps to get started in robotics

Begin your journey into robotics with flexible edX courses or degree programs that give you the skills you'll need for your future career. Here's what to do:

1. Build foundational math and science skills

Robotics engineering requires a foundational knowledge of:

  • Computer science: For programming algorithms and understanding data structures
  • Linear algebra: For calculating the forces and motion involved in robotic movement
  • Calculus: For modeling motion, velocity, and acceleration
  • Probability: For calculating the uncertainty that influences making engineering decisions
  • Physics: For understanding mechanical and electrical torque, energy, and circuits

You can develop these skills by enrolling in individual online courses or pursuing a degree program in a relevant field. The right learning path for you depends on your existing knowledge of the above topics, career goals, financial constraints, and schedule.

Featured courses


Explore robotics programs

Choosing the right robotics program for you

Not sure which edX robotics engineering program is right for you? Compare the options below to find a program that fits your current and future goals.

Professional certificate
Who is it best for?
Professionals looking to upskill or switch careers
Typical duration
2-10 months
Cost range
Starts at ~$500
What you can learn
Practical skills for job readiness, such as robotics system firmware and hardware
Course
Who is it best for?
Learners who want to explore robotics before committing to a longer program
Typical duration
2-6 weeks
Cost range
Free access to materials; certificate upgrades start at $50
What you can learn
Focused introductory to advanced robotics skills, including robot development and visual intelligence
Executive education
Who is it best for?
Mid-to-senior level professionals or entrepreneurs who want to expand their leadership abilities in robotics
Typical duration
6-20+ weeks
Cost range
Starts at ~$2,500
What you can learn
Leadership and strategic skills for robotics visionaries
Bachelor's program
Who is it best for?
Bachelor's degree-holders seeking advanced or leadership positions
Typical duration
12-36 months
Cost range
Starts at $10,000
What you can learn
Specialized topics within robotics, such as artificial intelligence
Master's program
Who is it best for?
Learners with a high school diploma or equivalent who are preparing for an entry-level robotics career
Typical duration
4-6 years
Cost range
Starts at $10,000
What you can learn
Foundational to advanced robotics topics with a mix of core and specialized coursework

Frequently asked questions

Will AI replace robotics engineers?

AI is becoming an essential part of robotics engineering, as it's commonly embedded within engineering tasks to enhance automation and productivity. Still, it's unlikely to replace robotics engineers soon. Robotics engineering requires advanced critical thinking skills and innovation that AI can't yet replicate.

What is the salary of a robotics engineer?

O*NET OnLine reports that robotics engineers earned a median annual salary of $117,750 in 2024. Your salary may vary based on industry, location, and experience.

What does a robotics engineer do?

A robotics engineer uses software and mechanical hardware to design, build, and test robots that automate human tasks and solve complex problems.

Do you need coding for robotics engineering?

Coding is an essential skill for a robotics engineer. The code you create provides the instructions robots need to carry out a particular task.

Python is one of the most popular programming languages for robotics. While learners don't necessarily need to be expert coders, it's important to have some prior knowledge and be willing to learn.

How many years does it take to become a robotics engineer?

According to the BLS, mechanical and robotics engineers typically hold a bachelor's degree in robotics or mechanical engineering. Completing a bachelor's program takes roughly four years. Then, you'll likely need to complete 1-2 years of experiential learning through an internship or an entry-level role.

If you already have a bachelor's degree in a related field, you may be able to spend 1-2 years taking focused robotics courses, acquiring a professional certificate, or earning a master's degree in mechanical engineering.

Can you teach yourself robotics?

While it's possible to independently learn relevant skills related to robotics, many employers require that applicants hold a bachelor's degree or higher.

If you already have a degree in engineering or a related topic, a robotics course or MicroMasters® Program can offer additional resources and instructors to support you in learning field-specific skills.

Is robotics hard to learn?

Robotics requires strong mathematical, programming, and engineering knowledge, which may be challenging for beginners. However, you can get started at any time by enrolling in an online robotics course or an engineering degree program.