Robotics Technology, PHD

About the Program

The School of Engineering Technology offers research-based M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Robotics Engineering Technology. These programs empower graduates to design, secure, and deploy advanced cyber-physical systems for industrial and real-world applications.

Our curriculum bridges the gap between theory and execution, integrating robotics modeling, autonomy, IoT-enabled architectures, and cybersecurity. Students build a rigorous analytical foundation in optimization and data-driven decision-making, while mastering full-system integration through modern frameworks like ROS. A defining hallmark of the program is the hands-on implementation of sensing, actuation, and secure networking.

Designed to meet the surging global demand for intelligent system architects, the program prepares leaders for sectors ranging from smart manufacturing to defense and healthcare. Purdue graduates emerge ready to validate and operate complex, connected robotic systems that sense, reason, and act on a global scale.

Program Website

Program Requirements

90 Credits Required

(Up to 30 credits from a Master’s may be applied.)

Program Learning Outcomes

Students will:

• Create original contributions to robotics knowledge through independent research in areas such as perception, cognition, actuation, control systems, embedded systems, and intelligent automation.
• Develop and advance complex robotics systems and methodologies by integrating advanced mathematics, data-driven methods, and engineering technologies to address open-ended, real-world problems.
• Lead interdisciplinary research and innovation efforts across domains such as manufacturing, assistive technologies, cyber-physical systems, and intelligent environments.
• Disseminate scholarly and applied research through peer-reviewed publications, presentations, and technical leadership in academic, industry, or governmental settings.
• Demonstrate ethical, societal, and professional responsibility by evaluating the broader impacts of robotics technologies, including safety, security, human interaction, and societal implications.

GPA Requirements

Students must maintain a 3.00 GPA minimum to be granted the degree.

Graduate Programs Disclaimer

• The student is ultimately responsible for knowing and completing all degree requirements. Students should consult with their advisor/department for more information.
• Not all graduate programs may be actively recruiting students and course modality availability may vary. 
• Please refer to the Explore Graduate Programs website for a list of currently available graduate programs.
• Transfer credit policy: Credits earned for graduate study at other universities (both domestic and international) may be applied toward an advanced degree. Only credit hours associated with graduate courses for which grades of B- or better were obtained will be eligible for transfer. Any additional conditions under which credit transfers may be made are determined by the various departments.
• Comparative information about Purdue University and other U.S. educational institutions is also available through the College Navigator tool, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics, and through the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.