Robotics, MSc by Research

A unique opportunity to develop skills in an increasingly critical area

Robot hands touching

Course Overview

Start date: MSc by Research - 1st October, 1st January, 1st April & 1st July.

Design of intelligent machines is increasingly critical in an era where Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly evolving towards a future where robots are seamlessly integrated into daily life and work.

This MSc by Research in Robotics offers a unique opportunity to develop advanced research and technical skills crucial for pioneering the intelligent machines of the future. By integrating mechatronics, AI, and computer science, students will engage in a one-year research project to address real-world challenges, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing and healthcare.

The programme combines the disciplines of mechatronics, AI, and computer science to provide you with the unique expertise to design, implement, programme and understand modern intelligent robotic systems. This equips you to build affordable, user-oriented robotic systems with immediate and practical impacts.

You will have the opportunity to use an incredible array of state-of-the-art facilities, with equipment available across the Computer Science and Engineering departments at Swansea University, gaining hands-on experience that is essential for mastering these technologies and gaining competitive skills for your future.

The full-time programme consists of a 1-year research project, which provides you with the chance to apply theoretical knowledge into practice in a real-world context. By working on your project, you will enhance your research as well as your problem-solving skills, acquiring a comprehensive understanding of the nature of intelligent robotics. You will learn to tackle complex challenges in various sectors, including manufacturing, health, search and rescue, and space exploration.

The local research environment available to you is dynamic and rich, featuring facilities like the Robotics & Industry 4.0 Lab in Engineering, and an Internet of Thing (IoT) and Robotics Lab in Computer Science, equipped with advanced robotics and AI tools. Collaborations with international bodies like the International Federation for the Promotion of Mechanism and Machine Science (IFToMM) further enrich the environment, offering you exposure to global research initiatives and cutting-edge technologies.

This results in Swansea’s Computer Scienced department earning the following rankings:

  • Top 201-250 in the World (QS World University Rankings 2025)
  • 100% World Leading and Internationally Excellent Ratings for Research Impact (REF 2021)
  • 90% of Our Research is World Leading and Internationally Excellent (REF 2021)

Engineering at Swansea also has a:

  • 100% World Leading and Internationally Excellent Rating for its Research Environment (REF 2021)

To support the additional costs associated with the research undertaken in this programme, there will be an additional ‘Bench Fee’ of £3,000 due in addition to tuition fees. This fee ensures that students gain comprehensive exposure to cutting-edge equipment and technologies, while also supporting opportunities to attend conferences, fostering networking, professional development, and engagement with the latest advancements in intelligent robotics and AI-driven innovation.