Learn robotics engineering: What is it and how to get started

How to get started in robotics

1. Gain prerequisite skills

Start by learning essential mathematics for robotics, including algebra, calculus, statistics, and probability. Physics concepts of motion, force, and laws of mechanics (Newton's laws) are also integral to working with robots.

Once you've built that foundation, begin learning programming languages such as Python and C++.Introductory data analysis courses may also help you understand how robots process information.

Explore edX's introductory courses in robotics process automation, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to start building core technical knowledge.

2. Sharpen your technical and soft skills

After covering the basics, deepen your expertise in electrical engineering, mechanical design, and control systems. At the same time, focus on building soft skills that employers value, such as communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

edX's Professional Certificate programs offer structured, multi-course series to help you build these skills in 2-10 months.

3. Enroll in a bachelor's degree, master's degree, or certificate program

Since standalone bachelor's degrees in robotics are less common, many robotics engineering roles may require applicants to hold a bachelor's in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or computer science. Employers often look for roboticists who can combine knowledge across these fields.

If you already hold a bachelor's degree, consider advancing your education with graduate-level programs, such as a master's degree, MicroMasters®, or executive education program to build business and leadership acumen.

What you'll learn in a robotics engineering program

To learn robotics, you will need to gain knowledge across multiple disciplines. Foundational robotics courses may cover modeling, kinematics, and equations of motion before moving on to more advanced topics such as planning and control.

Other topics covered in robotics engineering courses may include linear problems, machine learning for optimization, and operations research.

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

In a typical introductory robotics course or professional certification program, learners can absorb the fundamentals of robotics in less than a year. However, a more advanced route like a bachelor's or master's degree in robotics may take multiple years to complete, depending on your goals, specialization, or research.

How to choose the best robotics program for you

To find the right robotics program for you, consider your career goals, interests, time constraints, and budget.

edX offers a range of robotics programs designed to fit various student needs, including:

• Courses: Robotics engineering courses are best for learners seeking new skills or wanting to deepen existing knowledge.
• Professional Certificates: Experienced professionals seeking career advancement or a career change should consider earning a professional certificate in robotics engineering. These programs can help you expand your knowledge within the subject while earning credentials recognized by employers.
• Executive Education: Executive education programs are generally designed for those already working in their chosen field who want to learn leadership or management skills and pursue executive-level positions.
• Degrees: If you wish to build a more robust base of knowledge and skills in the robotics field and beyond, then pursuing a master's degree in engineering or artificial intelligence may be a worthwhile investment in your future.

Jobs that use robotic engineering

Robotics is transforming how humans complete tasks and solve complex problems.

Robotics engineers identify problems, design sophisticated solutions, and continue to redefine what's possible in our world. For this reason, robotic engineering skills can be applied to multiple career paths or industries, including engineering, construction, deployment, healthcare, automated management, and maintenance.

Here are a few positions that you may qualify for with robotics experience, along with salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):