Robotics and Intelligent Systems MSc
About this course
MSc Robotics and Intelligent Systems puts you at the forefront of AI and robotics research, combining computational intelligence with cutting-edge robotics to prepare you for a dynamic career in intelligent systems and automation. As robots perform tasks in cooperation with humans more safely, accurately, and efficiently, they have become critical to many sectors, including manufacturing, aerospace, surveillance, rescue, agriculture, forestry and woodland restoration and social care.
Our course explores the sustainable development of robots and intelligent systems, while also examining their applications in tackling crucial UN Sustainable Development Goals for a sustainable future. Additionally, the course facilitates the development of key UNESCO sustainability competencies relevant to the field, including systems thinking, anticipatory competency, normative competency, strategic competency, and integrated problem-solving competency. With access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated robotics labs and pioneering research groups in intelligent systems, you’ll benefit from research-led teaching that immerses you in the latest advancements in the field.
Through our strong industry partnerships, you’ll gain valuable real-world experience, including working on client projects, using case studies and real examples, and professional networking opportunities. You’ will work on projects directly aligned with industry needs, building critical skills and insights that will prepare you for the fast-paced world of robotics, AI, and intelligent systems. This hands-on, experience-based learning ensures you graduate with both technical expertise and the adaptability to excel in a rapidly evolving field.
The course is also dedicated to sustainability, encouraging you to explore how robotics and intelligent systems can address global challenges like those outlined in the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This focus not only sharpens your technical skills but also shapes you as a forward-thinking leader, ready to drive sustainable change in technology.
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One year paid work placement option available.
What you’ll study
You will study six 20 credit point (cp) modules and complete a major project.
Cognitive Robotics (20 credit points)
In this module, you will be introduced to sustainable principles and applications of cognitive robotics, combining robotics, artificial intelligence, and cognitive science. It will also provide you with the proficiency in implementing Cognitive Robotics (CR) skills to tackle practical applications and real-world problems with strong industry support via assessed work-like experiences (AWLE).
Artificial Perception (20 cp)
Artificial Perception is the capability of a computer system to interpret real-world data similarly to how humans perceive the world around them. During this module you will gain a deep understanding of sensory data processing, computer vision, auditory processing, and sensor fusion techniques through designing and implementing systems that mimic human sensory processing.
Introduction to Computer Programming (20 cp)
In this module you’ll focus on developing your skills in producing software solutions for practical problems. Through hands-on experiences, it emphasizes the use of program development environments and develops advanced procedural programming skills. Additionally, you will become familiar with object-oriented programming, preparing you for contemporary software development challenges.
Foundations of Artificial Intelligence (20 cp)
During this module, you will develop an understanding of the foundations of Artificial Intelligence, theoretical and practical approaches to problem-solving, and the techniques for knowledge representation and pattern discovery in data for effective AI-based solutions.
Computational Intelligence (20 cp)
Building on the knowledge gained in the Artificial Intelligence module, you will discover how computational intelligence draws inspiration from natural systems to develop problem solving techniques. You will gain a deep understanding of various nature-inspired algorithms, machine learning techniques, and reinforcement learning.
Research Methods (20 cp)
You will develop the skills necessary for effective research during this module. Explore our facilities to familiarise yourself with the equipment and software available during your Major Project. You will also understand how to select projects, develop a project definition document and write reports and technical papers.
Major Project (60 cp)
Through the design and development of innovative solutions to complex or technical problems, you develop your skills to an advanced level and become a specialist in an area of your choice. You will produce a dissertation or technical research paper, which is a substantial piece of work which you will work on under the supervision of a member of the academic staff.
We regularly review and update our course content based on student and employer feedback, ensuring that all of our courses remain current and relevant. This may result in changes to module content or module availability in future years.
How you're taught
The postgraduate academic year has four terms. You will take two 20 credit point modules per term for the first three terms, then complete a 60 credit point Major Project in the final summer term.
Study hours
Contact hours for a 20 cp modules are typically around 40 hours, with a further 150 hours expected from you for directed and independent study.
Careers and employability
The Department of Computer Science's strong industry connections facilitate site visits and networking events during your course. Additionally, by combining cutting-edge content with practical, industry-focused experiences, the course prepares you for a successful career in the rapidly evolving fields of intelligent systems, cognitive robotics, and related industries.
The course curriculum, with its strong emphasis on practical skills and industry-relevant knowledge, positions you for a variety of high-demand roles in the robotics and intelligent systems sector. The modules offered provide a comprehensive foundation that aligns closely with industry needs:
- Robotics Engineer: The Cognitive Robotics module equips you with skills to design and implement robotic systems, while the Artificial Perception module enhances your ability to develop sensory systems for robots.
- AI Specialist in Robotics: The Foundations of Artificial Intelligence and Computational Intelligence modules provide expertise in AI algorithms and their application to robotic systems.
- Intelligent Systems Developer: The combination of programming skills from the Introduction to Computer Programming module and advanced AI concepts prepares you for developing complex intelligent systems.
- Cognitive Systems Researcher: The Cognitive Robotics module, coupled with the Research Methods module, positions you for research roles in cognitive systems.
- Automation Engineer: Practical skills developed across all modules, particularly in Cognitive Robotics and Computational Intelligence, are directly applicable to automation engineering.
- Machine Learning Engineer for Robotics: The Computational Intelligence module, along with elements of Artificial Perception, provides a strong foundation in machine learning techniques for robotic applications.
- Research and Development Scientist in Robotics: The Research Methods module, combined with the technical depth provided by other modules, prepares you for R&D roles.
- Robotics Software Developer: The programming skills from the Introduction to Computer Programming module, enhanced by application in other technical modules, are crucial for this role.
- Autonomous Systems Engineer: The Cognitive Robotics and Artificial Perception modules are particularly relevant for developing autonomous systems.
- Technical Consultant for Robotics and AI firms: The broad knowledge base acquired across all modules, coupled with project experience, prepares you for consultancy roles.
The Major Project module often involves collaboration with industry partners, providing you with engagement and networking opportunities. These projects can lead to internships or even full-time positions upon graduation.
Other graduates who enjoyed the extensively applied research element of the course and the work on the MSc project will go on to study for a PhD.
Placement opportunities
NTU is one of the most employment-focused universities. Increasingly, employers want to recruit graduates who have real-world work experience. That’s why all of our courses, across every subject area, offer you a work experience opportunity. Our experts help build and support your future with various career programmes and events.
The school of Science and Technology will work closely with you to help you find a placement and strengthen your CV and interview techniques. You'll be supported and assessed throughout your placement year and will write a reflective report and diary at the end of your placement. When you successfully complete your placement and submit your placement report, you will be eligible to receive an additional Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Practice award.
Please note that placements are not guaranteed and the process is competitive through an application and interview process.
Re:search Re:imagined
Research is about more than writing papers and proposing new ideas. By daring to think differently, we’re disrupting the research landscape and finding the answers to the questions that matter. From conservation management to sustainable farming, we’re inspiring the brightest minds to rise and find solutions to some of the most significant global challenges facing society.
NTU Enterprise
You'll also have the opportunity to turn your ideas into a viable business with help from NTU Enterprise, NTU's purpose-built Centre for Entrepreneurship and Enterprise, a support centre to help students create, develop and grow their businesses.
Campus and facilities
Based at the Clifton Campus, you will use our high-specification electronic and communication laboratories. More about our world-class facilities can be found here.
Entry requirements
What are we looking for?
- 2:2 in any related scientific degree such as computing, engineering, physical sciences, life sciences, mathematics, or other quantitative and analytical disciplines but excluding robotics;
- Applicants with relevant employment experience or other relevant qualifications will also be considered.
All prospective students who wish to apply via Recognition of Prior Learning should initially contact the central Admissions and Enquiries Team, which will support you through the process.
NTU may admit a student with advanced standing beyond the beginning of a course through an assessment of that student's prior learning, whether it is certificated or uncertificated. Our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy outlines the process and options available to these prospective students, such as recognising experiential learning or transferring to a similar course at another institution, otherwise known as credit transfer.
Getting in touch
If you need more help or information, get in touch through our enquiry form
You will need:
- 2:2 in any related scientific degree such as computing, engineering, physical sciences, life sciences, mathematics, or other quantitative and analytical disciplines but excluding robotics;
- Applicants with relevant employment experience or other relevant qualifications will also be considered.
International qualifications
We accept qualifications from all over the world – check yours here:
Postgraduate preparation courses (Pre-Masters)
If you don’t yet meet our entry requirements, we offer Pre-Masters courses through our partner Nottingham Trent International College (NTIC), based on our City Campus:
English language entry requirements
You can meet our language requirements by successfully completing our pre-sessional English course for an agreed length of time, or by submitting the required grade in one of our accepted English language tests, such as IELTS:
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
Fees and funding
The course fees for September 2025 entry are:
| Study route | UK | International |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time | £9,990 | £19,900 |
| Full-time with placement year | £9,990 + £1,850 | £19,900 + £1,850 |
| Part-time | £4,995 | £9,950* |
* For part-time study, please check your student visa regulations.
Please note that if you are considering a part-time route that runs over more than one year, the tuition fee stated is for Year One of study. The course fee for Year Two is subject to annual review.
Funding your studies
Preparing for the financial side of student life is important, but there’s no need to feel anxious and confused about it. We hope that our fees and living costs page and our funding page will answer all your questions.
Scholarships
Postgraduate Scholarship (Artificial Intelligence conversion course)
NTU is proud to announce that we have been awarded a share of £8.1 million from the government, the Office for Artificial Intelligence and the Office for Students (OfS). The funding will provide scholarships that will increase diversity and address digital skills gaps in the workforce, supporting the government’s priority to invest in AI to encourage innovation. Find out more about this scholarship.
Other scholarship opportunities
You might be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies. We award scholarships to those students who can demonstrate excellent achievement, passion and dedication to their studies.
Alumni discount
We’re happy to be able to offer a 20% alumni discount to most current NTU students and recent NTU alumni. This discount is currently available for those starting an eligible postgraduate taught, postgraduate research or professional course.
Getting in touch
For more advice and guidance, you can contact our Student Financial Support Service on: +44 (0)115 848 2494. For scholarship help please contact us on: +44 (0)115 8484 200.
The course fees for September 2025 entry are:
| Study route | UK | International |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time | £9,990 | £19,900 |
| Full-time with placement year | £9,990 + £1,850 | £19,900 + £1,850 |
| Part-time | £4,995 | £9,950* |
* For part-time study, please check your student visa regulations.
Please note that if you are considering a part-time route that runs over more than one year, the tuition fee stated is for Year One of study. The course fee for Year Two is subject to annual review.
Scholarships
We offer scholarships of up to 50% of your tuition fee. You can apply for your scholarship when you have an offer to study at NTU.
Living costs
Get advice on the cost of living as an international student in Nottingham and how to budget:
Paying fees
Find out about advanced payments, instalment plan options and how to make payments securely to the University:
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
How to apply
Ready to join us? Then apply as soon as you can. Just click the Apply button at the top of the page and follow the instructions for applying. Make sure you check the entry requirements above carefully before you do.
You can get more information and advice about applying to NTU in our postgraduates' guide. Here you'll find advice about how to write a good personal statement and much more.
Writing your application
Be honest, thorough and persuasive in your application. Remember, we can only make a decision based on what you tell us. Make sure you include as much information as possible, including uploading evidence of results already achieved, as well as a personal statement.
Keeping up to date
After you’ve applied, we’ll be sending you important emails throughout the application process - so check your emails regularly, including your junk mail folder.
Getting in touch
If you need any more help or information, please contact us at Ask NTU or call on +44 (0)115 848 4200.
Apply online through our NTU applicant portal.
Application advice
Apply early so that you have enough time to prepare – processing times for Student visas can vary, for example. After you've applied, we'll be sending you important emails throughout the application process – so check your emails regularly, including your junk mail folder.
Writing your personal statement
Be honest, thorough, and persuasive – we can only make a decision about your application based on what you tell us:
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
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