A four-wheeled autonomous lavender-harvesting prototype drives between rows of lavender at The Lucky Clover Farm in Gaylord, Michigan.
Real Robots. Real Solutions.

Robotics at Michigan Tech

Michigan Tech is a world leader in quality STEM-based education—and with our expert faculty and academic offerings, we are uniquely positioned to develop tomorrow's advances in robotics and mechatronics.

Undergraduate Robotics Programs

Create the future of robotics at Michigan Tech. Through our undergraduate programs in robotics, you'll learn to design and maintain robots, develop new applications for them, and conduct research at an R1 institution to develop the next generation of robotic systems. This is a rapidly developing field, with technological advances opening up new possibilities every day.

Multidisciplinary Programs

Students controlling a robotic arm

Robotics Engineering—BS

Robotic system integration. Develop the robust autonomous systems shaping our future by mastering robotics at the intersection of electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and computing. You’ll explore operating systems, microcontrollers for cyber-physical systems, electric machinery and drives, sensing/perception, and more in a curriculum that blends technical depth with agility and social responsibility. Apply your knowledge to fields like aerospace, automotive, and advanced manufacturing.

Mechatronics—BS

Industrial control and automation. Design and implement industrial automation for manufacturing and process control. Mechatronics blends electrical and mechanical engineering technology and information technology to give you the tools to create smarter machines and processes. Gain hands-on experience with control systems, integration, maintenance, and diagnostics—becoming a go-to expert on complex robotic systems.

Robotics Minor

Enhance your major with a minor in robotics and gain the interdisciplinary skills needed to design and build intelligent systems. This minor blends mechanical, electrical, and computing concepts to prepare you for real-world collaboration and innovation in robotics. Graduate ready to contribute to cutting-edge technologies that are shaping the future across industries.

Mechanical Systems and Technology

Students working on a pulley for the Robot in 3 Days project

Mechanical Engineering—BS

Robotic structure, motion, and control. Engineer the physical systems that bring robots to life. Learn to apply mechanics, dynamics, controls, thermodynamics, and materials science to design robotic systems that are safe, reliable, and efficient. Use your skills to tackle global challenges in energy, healthcare, mobility, and sustainability.

Mechanical Engineering Technology—BS

Production, manufacturing, and robotics. Translate engineering concepts into real-world manufacturing solutions. Focus on the practical application of robotics in automated production environments through classes in product design, manufacturing, and CAD. Plus, learn to operate machine tools, such as lathes and mills. Gain the skills to adapt, operate, and maintain robotic systems in high-tech industrial settings.

Electrical Systems and Technology

Student working on an electrical component in the Plexus Innovation Lab

Electrical Engineering—BS

Robot sensors, actuators, and controls. Power and control robotic systems from the inside out. Learn the core principles of circuits, digital logic, and control systems, then specialize in fields like power engineering, biomedical systems, or photonics. Your knowledge will support the brains and nerves of robotic systems—from sensor input to actuator response.

Electrical Engineering Technology—BS

Data acquisition and instrumentation. Bridge the gap between concept and implementation in robotic systems. Focus on the hands-on design and maintenance of electrical systems, from sensors and control units to industrial automation. Specialize in industrial automation or computer engineering technology to bring data-driven automation to life.

Computer Systems and Information Technology

Student using a VR headset and handheld controllers to control Reachy the Robot

Computer Science—BS

Programming and human-robot interaction. Develop the software that enables robots to perceive, learn, and interact. Use coding, algorithms, and artificial intelligence to power robotic behavior and interface design. Whether you’re building autonomous navigation systems or enabling robots to work collaboratively with people, your programming foundation will be key.

Computer Engineering—BS

Robotic hardware and software. Integrate hardware and software to control intelligent systems. Study everything from microprocessors and embedded systems to machine learning and real-time operating systems. Write the code, design the circuits, and build complete robotic platforms that respond to their environments while taking a wide range of courses in both computer science and electrical engineering.

Information Technology—BS

Secure communication and data infrastructure. Ensure the integrity and security of the networks and systems that support robotics. Specialize in cybersecurity, IT management, or network engineering as you learn to build, protect, and manage the infrastructure that allows robots to communicate, update, and operate reliably in connected environments.

Human-Centered Systems and Technology

Studeng working with motion-tracking technology in a lab

Human Factors—BS

Psychology and human-robot interaction. Study the psychology of human behavior and apply it to create technology that works with people, not against them. Learn how humans think, feel, and act—then use that knowledge to evaluate and design interfaces, controls, and collaborative robotic systems. Explore human–robot teaming, system usability, and task allocation to ensure technology enhances safety, performance, and user experience.

Theatre and Entertainment Technology—BS

Performance and automation. Bring engineering and creativity together to build shows and attractions that move, react, and captivate. Work with production automation, interactive controls, show systems, sensors, animatronics, and media technologies to create immersive live experiences. Learn how technology—including robotics—shapes storytelling in theme parks, theatre, concerts, and beyond.

Sound Design—BA

Automation and creative audio. Explore how sound, sensors, and control systems interact to make experiences come alive. Integrate audio engineering with animation, interactivity, and automation—working with technologies such as live analysis tools, triggered effects, robotic motion cues, and synchronized show systems. Develop the technical and artistic skills to design sound for environments where technology and performance are tightly linked.

Scientific and Technical Communication—BA, BS

Effective robotics communication. Bridge the gap between complex robotic systems and the professionals who operate and depend on them. Learn to communicate sophisticated engineering concepts clearly, ethically, and effectively. Through collaboration with STEM peers, multimedia projects, and technical writing coursework, you‘ll help make robotics accessible, understandable, and user-focused.

Communication, Culture, and Media—BA

Robots in culture and society. Analyze the cultural, ethical, and social impacts of emerging technologies, including robotics and artificial intelligence. Examine how people interact with media and machines, study the societal implications of AI and automation, and develop critical perspectives essential for guiding responsible innovation. Strengthen your insights through research, communication projects, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Human-Centered Design Minor

Learn to solve problems through a human-centered lens. The interdisciplinary human-centered design minor combines design thinking, user research, and community-centered approaches to help you create innovative, ethical, and sustainable solutions. Graduate ready to improve products, services, and experiences for the people who use them.

Undecided Programs

Students watching a humanoid robot walk between tables in a classroom

You don't have to decide on a major to start building your robotics career path. Our undecided programs give you up to three semesters to explore different majors with the help of a dedicated advisor—without delaying graduation or wasting credits.

"In robotics nowadays, having a broad range of skills can be very helpful to any role you're in. I've got a Swiss Army knife of tools in my toolbox from mechanical engineering, mechatronics, and the programming I've done in the past."Edwin Yazbec '21 '22

Student Groups and Organizations

Get involved and gain experience. There are lots of ways to pursue robotics outside of the classroom with fellow Huskies who are just as passionate about robotics as you. Plus, real-world robotics experience looks great on a resume.

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Copper Country Robotics

Alumni of FIRST programs and anyone interested in robotics mentoring high school FIRST teams and volunteering at events.

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Aerospace Enterprise

Hands-on aerospace education and experience—space mission design and analysis, vehicle integration, systems engineering, and comprehensive ground testing and qualification.

Student working in an industrial automation lab

Mechatronics and Industrial Computing Enterprise (MICE)

Designing and implementing interdisciplinary industry-driven projects in industrial automation, digital twins, robotics, and industrial data systems.

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Strategic Education through Naval Systems Experiences (SENSE)

Designing, building, and testing engineering systems with a focus on Navy applications in all domains: space, air, land, sea, and undersea.

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Robotic Systems Enterprise

Integrating exceptional knowledge in electronics, robotics, and programming to solve real-world engineering problems.

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Blue Marble Security Enterprise

Securing the future through the thoughtful use of technology.

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Multiplanetary INnovation Enterprise (MINE)

Designing, testing, and implementing mining innovation technologies for partners in the traditional mining industry and the emerging fields of deep sea and space mining.

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Wireless Communication Enterprise

Focusing on wireless, optical, renewable energy, user interface, and biomedical technologies.

Labs and Facilities

With 15,465 square feet of lab space dedicated to robotics education and research, Michigan Tech is committed to discovering real solutions to real challenges in robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence.

  • Automation in Manufacturing and Industrial Systems Lab
  • Collaborative Robotics and Immersion Lab
  • Intelligent Robotics and System Optimization Lab (IRoSOL)
  • Autonomous Systems Teaching Lab
  • Robotics and Mechatronics Teaching Lab
  • Intelligent Systems and Control Lab
  • Planetary Surface Technology Development Lab (PSTDL)
  • Benedict Lab
  • Robust Autonomous Systems Lab (RASL)
  • Robotics Locomotion and Applied Control (RoLAC) Lab
  • Neuromorphic Robot Lab
  • Robotics and Controls Teaching Lab
  • Plexus Innovation Lab
  • Mechatronics Playground
  • Hydraulic Motion and Control Lab
  • Polymeric Additive Manufacturing Facility
  • Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering Technology Machine Shop
  • Aging and Cognition Lab
  • Walker Lab for Arts and Humanities

Robotics News

What are Huskies working on lately? Learn more about some of our recent robotics projects.

Watch Robot in 3 Days video
Preview image for Robot in 3 Days video

Robot in 3 Days

Meet Blizzard T. Robot! Before the spring 2025 semester began, Michigan Tech’s Copper Country Robotics (CCR) successfully constructed a working robot prototype in the Alley Makerspace as part of the Robot in 3 Days Challenge. The FIRST Robotics Competition challenges high school robotics teams to design, build and test a robot for strategic gameplay in six weeks, advancing to compete with other teams later this year. University students, like the CCR team, have just 72 hours to accomplish the same task, as both demonstration and inspiration for the high school teams. Learn more about the Robot in 3 Days Challenge in Stories from Husky Nation: https://www.mtu.edu/stories/2025/01/ready-set-robot-mtu-robotics-team-builds-working-prototype-in-three-days.html Learn more about CCR: https://ccr.students.mtu.edu/ Learn more about the Alley Makerspace: https://www.makerspace.mtu.edu/ #TomorrowNeeds #MichiganTech

14undergraduate majors related to robotics
15,465square feet of lab space for robotics education and research