Since the start of this millennium, our world has been rapidly evolving and advancing with more technology. This has naturally resulted in a society constantly searching for more tech-oriented solutions, causing a higher demand for careers in the field of technology—expanding the industry exponentially. Among the many different branches that have come forth from the industry’s boom, the field of robotics has been one of the most interesting and promising ones. In this article, we answer the question, “Why pursue a robotics degree?”
What is robotics?
Robotics is an interdisciplinary field dedicated to the design, construction and operation of robots. It combines computer science, mechanical engineering and electrical engineering to program autonomous or semi-autonomous machines to perform a diverse range of tasks that replicate or substitute for human actions.
The field of robotics is highly diverse, covering applications from manufacturing and healthcare to exploration and entertainment. Industrial robots, like those used in car assembly lines, showcase efficiency gains in production. Medical robots, such as the da Vinci Surgical System, exemplify precision in surgical procedures. Meanwhile, machines like drones or the Mars Rovers highlight aerial and space exploration.
Why pursue a robotics degree?
There can be many different reasons for one to pursue a robotics degree in 2024. Here are just some of them:
A rapidly growing industry with a surge in demand for professionals
According to Robotics Tomorrow, “[t]he global industrial robotics market is growing quickly. Market volume is expected to surpass 45 billion USD by 2028, with a growth rate of approximately 3.83 percent annually. …. this expansion is reshaping the landscape.” Supporting this, Mordor Intelligence says that “The International Federation of Robotics reported that the demand for robots was fueled by investments in new car production facilities and the modernization of industrial facilities.” In addition, the Hyundai Motor Group invested USD 400 million in August 2022 to establish the Boston Dynamics AI Institute to advance AI and robotics.
Looking beyond, medical robotics is also a player to watch in the industry. Advent Health University says that “[t]he global medical robots market is projected to reach $12.7 billion by 2025, with hospitals holding the largest market share in 2020.” The growth of the robotics field, across multiple industries, is exponential and is evidently on an upward slope.
Interdisciplinary skill development
A robotics degree is not merely a specialised qualification. It is a gateway to a diverse skill set that empowers graduates to navigate a myriad of professional landscapes. Of the many things robotics students learn within their course, the top ones would be:
- programming
- advanced math and science
- complex problem solving
- creative thinking
- teamwork and collaboration.
These equip robotics graduates to enter a very wide range of professions, such as aerospace engineering, healthcare robotics, agriculture and even fashion!
Innovation and research opportunities
Pursuing a robotics degree offers the chance to engage in cutting-edge research. This allows students to be at the forefront of technological advancements and contribute to industry innovations. Robotics solutions do not only make life easier but are also very much capable of addressing global challenges. For instance, robots can address some of the different environmental crises we face today by filling in roles that are too dangerous for humans. A robotics degree equips students to contribute to meaningful problem-solving. Students can better address the world’s most pressing issues and making a positive impact on society and the world.
Competitive edge in emerging technologies
The rapid evolution of automation and AI are not just trends. They are currently the driving forces behind the next wave of industrial and technological evolution. Having a robotics degree provides a competitive advantage in a job market increasingly focused on such emerging technologies. More and more prominent companies are hiring robotics graduates—some of the top companies being NASA, Google, Amazon and Johnson & Johnson based on this list by Glassdoor.
Competitive pay
Indeed says that the average salary for a robotics engineer is $109,985 per year in the United States. This is based on 871 salaries reported, updated on January 2024. On the other hand, according to Talent, “[t]he average robotic engineer salary in the United Kingdom is £40,000 per year or £20.51 per hour. Entry-level positions start at £35,000 per year while most experienced workers make up to £60,695 per year.” As the robotics industry continues to boom in growth, graduates can expect salary offers to go even higher.
Is a robotics degree worth it?
Robotics is present in a wide variety of industries. This gives graduates more opportunities for employment, competitive salaries and rapid career growth. Seeing the many benefits that come with having a robotics degree, obtaining one understandably takes a lot of hard work, dedicated effort and being clear with one’s objectives and end goals. A robotics degree, depending on many factors, may take anywhere between two to six years to complete. Given this time frame, aspiring students must be very clear about what they would like to achieve and what kind of timeline they are willing to abide by. Pursuing a robotics degree can be a very smart and lucrative choice given today’s career landscape. However, it will ultimately boil down to a student’s personal study and career goals, and the hard work they would be willing to put in to make these happen.
How and where can I pursue a robotics degree?
Given that robotics professionals are in very high demand, there is a multitude of ways for aspiring students to study robotics and earn a degree; from enrolling in robotics programs in tech universities and colleges, to pursuing a masters degree or PHD in robotics. While these are mostly hands-on programs, especially in robotics engineering, there are also some online robotics degrees being offered nowadays. There are also many kinds of integrated or combined degrees available, such as an AI and robotics degree.
To learn more about robotics degrees, programs and institutions that offer amazing courses, explore the GSP platform today!
