Robotics MSc

15 credits

This module offers a comprehensive exploration of the synergy between electronics and robotics, encompassing essential components such as microcontrollers, sensors, motors, and sustainability considerations. This module combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications to empower students with a deep understanding of electronic systems' pivotal role in contemporary robotics. You will delve into topics ranging from the fundamentals of electronics to advanced sustainable practices in robotics design, equipping you with versatile skills for the ever-evolving field of robotics.

15 credits

This module provides high level view on the design of mechatronic and automation systems. Applications and types of such systems are discussed. Main components of mechatronic design are introduced, including mechanical design through specialised software, sensors and actuators, control design, and software development for real-time implementation. Theoretical material is illustrated by practical laboratory sessions on real-time design, using industrial standard, state-of-the-art equipment. A range of transferable skills gained in this module is aimed to help with your work on your final project and extra-curricular activities available within the school.

30 credits

The module offers a comprehensive exploration of fundamental concepts and practical applications related to sensors, actuators, and embedded systems in the context of mechatronics and robotics.

You will delve into the intricate world of electronics, focusing on the critical components that drive autonomous systems. The module combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on projects, providing you with a strong foundation in the design, implementation, and optimisation of sensor-driven mechatronic systems.

This module will provide you with a solid foundation in the electronics and embedded systems aspects of mechatronics and robotics, preparing you for the challenges of designing and developing sensor-driven autonomous systems.

15 credits

The module introduces fundamental concepts and methods in Machine Learning and discusses their applications in smart mechatronic systems. You are firstly introduced to classical methods before they are taught modern state-of-the-art AI approaches. The module is taught in a practical fashion and therefore some knowledge of a programming language is required. This Machine Learning module, through its practical focus on smart mechatronic systems, empowers students with digital competency and creative problem-solving skills. Engaging with both classical and state-of-the-art AI approaches cultivates a questioning mindset and adaptability. The coursework encourages collaboration and resilience as you tackle complex real-world problems like autonomous driving. Regular feedback promotes self-awareness, and an enterprise mindset is fostered through real-world problem solving.

60 credits

Drawing on previous knowledge and experience, the dissertation module allows you to study an area of interest within your chosen field in significant depth. In undertaking the dissertation, you will develop not only a deeper understanding of your subject area but will also be able to demonstrate a high level of autonomy in terms of project dissertation planning and management. You will be able to demonstrate knowledge and competence in reviewing existing published literature and data and, through your own efforts, apply one or more of a range of research methods to collect and analyse data and draw well-founded conclusions as a result of your research. The main output from the module is a final report but the option is available for you to prepare their work in the format of an article suitable for submission to a relevant conference or journal.

30 credits

Research Techniques, Innovation and Sustainability equips you with the skills and knowledge required to select and justify a research topic and then to plan and execute that research project. Research is a broad topic covers a variety of activities that range from undertaking a project as part of an academic programme, through research and development in the commercial environment, to acquiring information to inform projects undertaken as part of routine business practice. This module introduces research in these contexts and allows you to develop your own research plan. As part of the module, you will consider setting research questions and determining hypotheses, acquire relevant information and data, apply suitable analytical techniques, and evaluate the significance and potential applications of their research findings. You will also develop your innovation skills through a combination of workshops and team working, resulting in submission of an innovation proposal aimed to address UN Sustainable Development Goal 11, Sustainable Cities and Communities.

The module covers many practical aspects surrounding research in the commercial environment including intellectual property and professionalism, and sustainability is embedded throughout the module both in course content and via development of the innovation proposal.

15 credits

This module is designed to expand your knowledge and skills in the fields of artificial intelligence, in particular, deep learning applied to robotic applications. The module covers a range of topics, including Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) and Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs). You will gain a deeper understanding of how to design and implement robotic systems that can perform complex tasks efficiently and intelligently such as responding to human behaviour and navigating autonomously in complex and dynamic environments.

15 credits

This module provides you with the knowledge of the basic principles of human-robot interaction (HRI), exploring the fundamentals of a new area of research related to robotics, focusing on the physical, cognitive, and social interaction between humans and robots. This module aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of HRI principles, theories, and practical applications. You will learn to design, evaluate, and implement effective HRI systems that enable seamless communication and collaboration between humans and robots.

120 credits

The Professional Placement module is a core module if you're following a masters programme that incorporates an extended professional placement. It provides you with the opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills in an appropriate working environment, and develops and enhances key employability and subject specific skills in your chosen discipline. You may wish to use the placement experience as a platform for a major project or your future career.

It is your responsibility to find and secure a suitable placement opportunity; this should not normally involve more than two placements which must be completed over a minimum period of 10 months and within a maximum of 12 months. The placement must be approved by your Course Leader prior to commencement to ensure its suitability. You will have access to the standard placement preparation activities offered by the Student Engagement and Enhancement (SEE) group.

Read more about the postgraduate work placement scheme.