Robotics, Autonomous and Interactive Systems

This Robotics degree programme allows students to study in a multi-disciplinary domain that brings together electronics, computer software, and mechanics. We were recently ranked 1st in the UK for Electrical and Electronic Engineering in the Daily Mail University Guide 2026, reflecting the exceptional quality of our teaching, research, and industry engagement in the field. Our BEng (Hons) Robotics, Autonomous and Interactive Systems brings together electronics, computer software, and mechanics.

In the first three years, you’ll be given a background in all three disciplines, along with the opportunity to build integrated systems. In fourth year, you can either continue with a broad-based curriculum, or specialise in particular aspects of contemporary robotics. During your studies, you will apply our ‘learning by doing’ philosophy by practically developing your skills beyond traditional academic content.

You’ll work on both individual and group projects from third year onwards, gaining valuable hands-on experience. By studying at Heriot-Watt, you will be meeting the rapidly growing worldwide demand for graduates with the technical skills and industry awareness to create an innovation pipeline from academic research to global markets in the field of robotics. With key application areas include manufacturing, assistive and medical robots, offshore energy, environmental monitoring, search and rescue, defence, and support for the aging population.