MSc Autonomous Systems

This programme will prepare you to meet the global demand for autonomy in a wide variety of sectors, including: marine; robotics; IT; aerospace; automobiles; banking and education.

• Unique programme providing strong skill sets both in marine and robotic autonomy.
• Taught by world-leading experts from the Autonomous Marine Systems (AMS) Research Group, the Centre for Robotics and Neural Systems (CRNS), the Maritime Cyber Threats Research Group and the Big Data Group.
• Keep you updated with the latest development in artificial intelligence techniques and their application in autonomy - our seminars series with speakers from industry and academia gives you the opportunity to keep ahead in this fast moving field.
• Guest lectures from the key people in industries working in autonomy, for example: Thales, Metalectrique Battery Systems, Dynautics (H-Scientific), Sonardyne, MSubs, Furgo, PML, NOC, Babcock International, ORE catapult, Teledyne e2v, Seiche Ltd to provide real contacts and share their experiences.
• Provision to work on Industry-based autonomous systems projects with the potential for laboratory and test facility support.

• Year 1

• The MSc in Autonomous Systems builds on our research expertise and practical capability to develop innovative solutions for autonomous operations to devise a timely and relevant master’s level programme that is attractive to industry partners and potential students alike. The core of the new programme will be in the 'techno-scientific' knowledge domain of autonomous systems operating on land, marine or aerial environments and will be aimed at those who wish to develop the specialist knowledge and skills necessary to design and develop autonomous systems. This will be one of first multi-disciplinary programmes in the School of Engineering and will consist of 120 credits of taught modules and 60 credits of dissertation project. Project subjects can be based on personal interests or taken from those suggested by external partners.
  

  Core modules (120 credits):

  Introduction to Autonomous Systems (40 credits) – This module will develop knowledge and understanding of data analysis, networking, communication and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and will explore the benefits of these in autonomous systems.  Practical sessions will develop appropriate software skills. The module will include guest lectures and a field visit to an autonomy-related manufacturer for demonstrations in their test site and R&D laboratories.  
  
  Fundamentals of Robot Manipulators (20 credits) – This module provides a systematic understanding of the theory and implementation of robot manipulators, as used in industry and other advanced applications, and will cover intelligent control system techniques, sensors and actuators, and modelling.
  
  Engineering Design Research Methods (DRM) and Professional Development (20 credits) - You will use a methodical approach to design research that helps identify and define projects that are practically realistic and academically worthwhile. You will use DRM to plan your research project and select ethically suitable quantitative and qualitative research methods. Your progression towards professional registration will be appraised and plans made for continuous professional development (CPD).

  Modelling and Analytics for Data Science (20 credits) - This module gives students an understanding of modelling and analytics techniques for data science. It supplies modern data modelling tool boxes for making strategic decisions in a broad range of business-related practical situations. It offers a hands-on introduction to Bayesian inference and machine learning. It provides additional practice in making professional presentations.
  
  Data Processing, Simulation and Optimisation of Engineering Systems (20 credits) - This module will develop student knowledge and understanding of data processing techniques and will explore the benefits of these in engineering practice. Further study of simulation and optimisation techniques for engineering systems will provide the tools to enable the students to develop dynamic simulation of real engineering problems, including behaviour prediction and performance optimisation using MATLAB/Simulink.
  
  Engineering Design Dissertation (60 credits) - This module allows students to demonstrate the practical skills and knowledge of research methods to plan and implement high quality research. Students will carry out a substantial research investigation on a topic of their choice and report upon the aims, methodology, data analysis, interpretation, synthesis, and conclusions through a high quality, scholarly and professional write-up of the project.
  

Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:

MSc Autonomous Systems programme specification 6758

We expect students to have achieved at least a 2.2 or equivalent in their undergraduate degree in engineering, mathematics, robotics, marine, computing and physical science-related subjects.

Applicants with overseas qualifications can check their comparability with the UK equivalent through NARIC, which provides an advisory service.

When to apply

Most of our taught programmes begin in September. Applications can usually be made throughout the year, and are considered until programmes are full. 

Before you apply

• evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
  
• evidence of English language proficiency, if English is not your first language
  
• a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
  
• your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
  
• proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
  

Disability services

If you have a disability and would like further information about the support provided by University of Plymouth, please visit our Disability Services website. 

International students

Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office via our how to apply webpage or email international-admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Submitting an application

Once you are happy that you have all of the information required you can apply using our online postgraduate application form (the blue 'Apply now' icon on this page).

What happens after I apply?

You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.

We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.

If you would like any further information please contact the Admissions and Course Enquiries team:

Telephone: +44 (0)1752 585858
Email: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk 

Admissions policy

More information and advice for applicants can be referenced by downloading our Student Admissions Policy Prospective students are advised to read the policy before making an application to the University.