MSc Autonomous Systems

MSc Autonomous Systems will equip you with theoretical and practical skills and enable you to pursue your career in wide selection of industries: defence, health, policing, automobiles, robotics, marine and aircraft industries, e-commerce and financial services.

• 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.
• When our new engineering and design facility is launched, students in engineering, science and the arts will have access to a range of specialist equipment and innovative laboratories.
  
• Keep updated with the latest developments in artificial intelligence techniques and their application in autonomy – our seminar 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

  • Intelligent Sensors and Control for Autonomous Systems (ROCO508Z)

    The module covers a range of classical and smart sensors and actuators, which can be applied in interactive and automated system, with emphasis on several key sensors. This module introduces the basic and advanced concepts of linear and nonlinear modelling analysis and design of intelligent control systems. This module has a strong hands-on component.

  • Autonomy Principles and Ethics (MECH556)

    This module will develop knowledge and understanding of data analysis, networking, communication, artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and associated ethics considerations in autonomous systems. The module will include guest lectures from key people from Industries and academics to share their experiences in the autonomous systems areas.

  • Soft Computing Techniques for Autonomous Systems (MECH557)

    This module will develop knowledge and understanding of soft computing techniques and will explore the benefits of these in autonomous systems. The module will include seminars and guest lectures from key people from Industries and academics to share their experiences in the autonomous systems areas.

  • MSc Dissertation and Research Skills (PROJ518)

    You will develop a methodical approach to research that helps propose research projects that are practically realistic and academically worthwhile. A substantial project will be planned and carried out using ethically suitable quantitative and qualitative research methods. The project will be reported through a high quality, scholarly and professional write-up, either as a formal dissertation or journal paper.

  • Data Processing, Simulation and Optimisation of Engineering Systems (MECH544)

    Data Processing part of the module explores the benefits and limitations of data processing in engineering practice. State of the art tools and techniques will be introduced in this module. Simulation and Optimisation of Engineering Systems part will provide the tools to enable the students to develop dynamic simulation of engineering systems, predict their behaviour and optimise their performance using MATLAB/Simulink.

  • Cyber-Physical Systems Security (COMP5011)

    This module looks at developing the necessary skills and techniques for analysing, critiquing and designing secure cyber-physical systems (CPS). Examples of CPS include the Internet of Things, transportation, robotics, maritime shipping and autonomous vehicles. Consideration is given to a systems-based approach to the security analysis of CPSs, the identification of vulnerabilities and the development of secure solutions.

  Optional modules

  • Applied Marine Autonomy (MAR537Z)

    This module introduces students to marine autonomous platforms for marine environmental data collection. It focuses on the appropriate use of platforms, covering theory of operation and developing practical skills in autonomous marine data collection through workshops and fieldwork. The module also allows direct interaction with scientific researchers and industry practitioners through seminars.

  • Modelling and Analytics for Data Science (MATH501)

    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.

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 and 7416

The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.

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 Ecctis, which provides an advisory service.

If your first language is not English then evidence of English proficiency is required. The level of proficiency that is required can vary with the type of programme for which you are applying. For further advice on the appropriateness of overseas qualification and proficiency in the use of English, please contact our International Office.

The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is normally 6.5 with scores of 5.5 in all elements.

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

Familiarise yourself with the information required to complete your application form. You will usually be required to supply:

• 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.
  

If you require further information take a look at our application guidance.

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 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.