Autonomous Systems and Intelligent Robots - ICT Innovation (EIT Digital Master School), Master of Science (Technology)

Description

The Autonomous Systems and Intelligent Robots study programme offers a multidisciplinary blend of computer science, electrical engineering and automation. Throughout the programme, students develop the knowledge and skills needed to design, analyse and implement autonomous systems that combine perception, decision-making, control, communication and interaction with the physical or digital world.

In computer science, students gain expertise in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, the Internet of Things (IoT), software systems and robotic vision. In electrical engineering, the focus includes automation, robotics, control systems, embedded systems, and communication technologies. Together, these areas provide a broad foundation for understanding both the intelligence and the engineering behind autonomous systems.

Students learn the latest theoretical knowledge and know how to apply their skills in practical real-life problems. Typical application areas for autonomous systems include autonomous robots and machines, industrial automation, intelligent devices and instruments, connected systems, mobility, healthcare technologies, agriculture, home automation, energy management and smart infrastructure. They also play a growing role in scientific research, enabling autonomous exploration, data collection, and experimentation.

The ICT Innovation programme has separate application periods and admission procedures from the other Master's programmes offered by Aalto University. Further information on admission is available on the EIT Digital Master School website.

Language of instruction

In the master’s programme, the language of instruction is English.

Tuition fees and scholarships

Students admitted to Master's Programme in ICT Innovation (EIT Digital Master School) - Autonomous Systems and Intelligent Robots are eligible for scholarships and liable for tuition fees according to EIT Digital's tuition fee and scholarship scheme.

Students are not liable for paying tuition fees to Aalto University or eligible for Aalto University scholarships. Please see programme website for more information.

Structure of studies

EIT Digital Master School programmes are double degree programmes in which students study at two universities in two different countries. The programme leads to two Master of Science degrees (double degree), one from each of the universities where the student has studied. The programme is organised jointly with other European universities in the EIT Digital Master School network. For an up-to-date list of universities, please visit the EIT Digital Master School website.

Overall, the two-year programme comprises a total of 120 ECTS credits:

• Major (60 ECTS)
• Innovation and Entrepreneurship minor (30 ECTS)
• Master’s thesis (30 ECTS)

Specialisations

Aalto University offers AUSIR studies as both an entry university for first-year studies and an exit university for second-year studies.

The first year is similar at all AUSIR entry point universities and provides foundation courses in robotics, artificial intelligence or machine learning, and modelling, estimation and control. Students may also choose elective courses to prepare for their second year specialisation. Innovation and Entrepreneurship (I&E) courses are also an important part of the programme.

During the second year of studies, the student chooses a specialisation option offered by one of the exit point universities. The specialisation offered at Aalto University is Intelligent Robots and Systems.

The Aalto University specialisation offers a wide range of courses in robotics and autonomous systems, covering theoretical foundations, core methodologies, and hands-on skills. Elective courses include autonomous mobile robots, micro- and nano-robotics, neurorobotics, computer vision, robot manipulation, model-based control, sensor fusion, and machine learning methods. Together, these courses equip students with knowledge and skills in robotics and autonomous systems, spanning hardware and software, algorithms, and real-world applications. The specialisation allows students to learn how to design and implement intelligent, autonomous robots and systems. The specialisation is further enriched by compulsory courses in innovation and entrepreneurship, helping students to turn ideas into impactful solutions.

More information on the programme content and curriculum can be found in the Student guide.

Internationalisation

The EIT Digital Master School programmes are inherently international because the studies take place at two universities in two different countries. The programme provides its students with a profound experience of working and studying in multiple countries in an international environment.

Further study opportunities

The degree programme provides eligibility for scientific postgraduate studies in Finland. The skills learned in the programme create an excellent basis for doctoral studies at Aalto University, another Finnish university or top international universities. Doctoral graduates from Aalto University continue to researcher or other academic career or high-level business positions, among other things. Read more about applying for doctoral studies at Aalto University: https://www.aalto.fi/en/doctoral-education/how-to-apply-for-doctoral-studies.

Career opportunities

The job market for autonomous systems and intelligent robotics is currently very promising, with a wide range of opportunities across industries. Automotive manufacturing remains a major industry in Europe and the university partners are well connected with these companies. In addition, autonomous systems and intelligent robots play an increasingly important role in service applications as well as in manufacturing, logistics, shipping, mining, and recycling industries. Autonomous technologies are also advancing in sectors such as construction, scientific research, environmental monitoring, and smart infrastructure. Furthermore, autonomous software systems are increasingly widespread in sectors such as media, finance, customer service, and healthcare – opening up a diverse set of career paths for graduates.

Research focus

The studies in the programme are closely connected to the research conducted at the relevant departments of the consortium universities including Aalto University's Department of Electrical Engineering and Automation and Department of Computer Science.At Aalto, the programme is linked to research in areas such as robotics, autonomous systems, control, sensing, embedded systems, artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer vision and human–machine interaction.

Co-operation with other parties

Please visit the EIT Digital Master School website to learn more about the industry partners and collaboration.

Contact information

EIT Digital Master School

masterschool@eitdigital.eu

https://masterschool.eitdigital.eu/