The MSc in Intelligent Robotics is a 90 ECTS (Credits) programme, which includes a taught component of 60 ECTS (delivered in Autumn and Spring Semesters), with a Research Thesis of 30 ECTS, on a state-of-the-art topic in intelligent robotics undertaken over the entire year of the programme.   

All students complete the Research Thesis component. Students also choose from a number of advanced discipline-specific technology modules covering topics including robot kinematics and control, robot architectures, sensing and perception, artificial intelligence, autonomous navigation, simulation and digital twins, and embedded systems design.  

Students must select modules with a combined credit weighting of 45-50 ECTS.   

A range of Engineering Transferable Skills modules enable students to develop skills in business, innovation, regulatory and research methods, while also providing options for training in advanced mathematical techniques and information technology. These modules will prepare students for lifelong learning and development in a professional engineering career, either in industry or in a research environment. Students must choose 10-15 ECTS of modules from the Transferable Skills category.  

What will I study?  

Please note: The range of modules available may vary each year based on availability and student demand. 

Explore a selection of specialist modules designed to deepen your expertise in intelligent robotics. These may include: 

• Robotic Control, Navigation and Locomotion 
• Embedded Image Processing 
• Embedded Computer Vision 
• Sensing and Perception for Automation and Robotics 
• Advanced Manufacturing 
• Digital Twins for Robotics 
• Mobile Device Technologies 
• Mobile Networks: Architecture and Services 
• Data Analytics 
• Internet of Things Systems Design 
• Digital Signal Processing 
• Machine Learning 
• Computer Security & Forensic Computing  

Indicative List of Transferable Skills modules:  

• Financial management 
• Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship 
• Research Methods for Engineers 
• Lean Systems 
• Project Management 
• Safety Engineering 
• Introduction to Sustainability 

• State-of-the-Art Research Thesis (30 ECTS): 
  All students undertake a year-long, cutting-edge research project in intelligent robotics, applying theory to real-world challenges. 
• Flexible, Advanced Specialisation (45–50 ECTS): 
  Choose from a wide range of technology-focused modules including AI, computer vision, digital twins, IoT, and autonomous systems to tailor your expertise.
• Interdisciplinary Skill Development (10–15 ECTS):
  Gain critical transferable skills in innovation, business, regulation, research methods, and advanced mathematics to support career adaptability.
• Integrated Learning Structure (90 ECTS):
  A balanced curriculum combining deep technical knowledge with practical and professional development, aligned with modern robotics demands.
• Career-Ready Graduate Profile:
  Designed to prepare students for both industry and research careers, the programme bridges technical mastery and professional engineering competencies. 

Graduates of the MSc in Intelligent Robotics are well-prepared for dynamic careers across cutting-edge industries. Opportunities span autonomous vehicles, advanced manufacturing, IoT, AI, and data analytics - where expertise in robotics, computer vision, and control systems is in high demand. This programme opens doors to roles in innovation, research, and development, empowering graduates to shape the future of technology, science, and sustainable engineering. 

Accrediting Body 

The course meets international standards with regard to coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards necessary to become a Behaviour Analyst. The MSc is a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) approved by the Association of Behaviour Analysis International, a standard recognised in the field of behaviour analysis around the world.   

The course is accredited by the Psychological Society of Ireland as a postgraduate professional programme in behavioural psychology fulfilling the postgraduate course requirements to become a Chartered Behavioural Psychologist.   

Graduates are eligible to register with CORU (the regulatory body for health and social care professionals in Ireland) and become members of AOTI (the professional body for occupational therapists in Ireland). 

Graduate Opportunities  
Our graduates work as Behaviour Analysts in practice once they have met the necessary training requirements. Graduates can register as a Behaviour Analyst with the Irish Society for Behaviour Analysis.   

International Opportunities 

The course also meets the requirements to allow graduates to apply to the Behaviour Analyst Certification Board in the United States to become a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst. This only applies to applicants residing and working in North America. 

• Prof Edward Jones 
• Brian Deegan
• Peter Corcoran 
• Adnan Elahi 
• Liam Kilmartin 
• Prof Kathryn Cormican 
• Prof Mary Dempsey 
• Martina Kelly
• Noel Harrison 

How will I learn? 

The MSc in Intelligent Robotics offers a comprehensive educational experience by blending theoretical instruction with practical, hands-on learning. You will learn through a mix of interactive lectures, seminars for industry experts, and practical laboratory sessions led by expert faculty. Real-world case studies, data-driven projects and coding exercises will enable you to apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems. 

Group projects and collaborative activities will enhance your teamwork and communication skills, while individual assignments and the final dissertation will help you develop independence and critical thinking.  

Throughout the programme, you will work directly with cutting-edge robotic hardware and industry-standard tools, gaining hands-on experience that bridges theory and practice.  

How Will I Be Assessed? 

Throughout the programme, your progress is assessed through various coursework and exams, including reports, essays, presentations, and computer assignments. 

1. Continuous Assessment - Regular coursework, written assignments, laboratory exercises, and mini-projects.
2. Examinations - Written examinations and oral examinations. 
3. Project Work - Students will engage in the research and development of robotic solutions based on real-world use cases, providing opportunities to apply their skills in practical, real-world contexts.  

Course queries: 
E: martin.glavin@universityofgalway.ie 

Programme Director(s):  

Prof Martin Glavin, 
Programme Director, 
School of Engineering.  
College of Science and Engineering 

E: martin.glavin@universityofgalway.ie 

University of Galway recognises that knowledge and skills can be acquired from a range of learning experiences. This is in line with the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) goals which aim to recognise all learning achievements by supporting the development of alternative pathways to qualifications (or awards) and by facilitating the recognition of prior learning (RPL). 

Students select 10–15 ECTS from a specialised suite of Transferable Skills modules that foster lifelong learning and support career development. These modules equip students with key competencies in business, innovation, regulatory compliance, and research - alongside options for advanced training in mathematics and IT. Designed to complement technical expertise, they prepare graduates for impactful careers in both industry and research. 

Indicative modules include: 

• Financial Management
• Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship
• Research Methods for Engineers
• Lean Systems
• Project Management
• Safety Engineering
• Introduction to Sustainability

Minimum Entry Requirements

Candidates must hold at least a Second Class Honours Level 8 primary degree in a related subject area or hold a primary degree in a related area (which is acceptable to the college) without honours and have three years’ relevant practical experience in the subject area. 

Academic entry requirements standardised per country are available here.  

English Language Entry Requirements

For applicants whose first language is not English, an English language proficiency of IELTS score of 6.5 is required (with no less than 6.5 in Writing and no less than 6.0 in any other band) or equivalent.  

More information on English language test equivalency are available here.  

Supporting Documents

You will be required to provide supporting documentation as part of your application. You can check here what supporting documents are required for this course.   

You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.  

Please review the entry requirements set out in the section above.  

You will be required to upload supporting documentation to your application electronically. See the section above on entry requirements for further information on the supporting documentation required for this course.  

Closing Dates 

For this programme, there is no specific closing date for receipt of applications. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and course quotes will be reviewed continuously throughout the application cycle.  

Notes 

• You will need an active email account to use the website and you'll be guided through the system, step by step, until you complete the online form.
• Browse the FAQ's section for further guidance.  

Fees for Academic Year 2025/2026

For 25/26 entrants, where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 3.4% per annum for continuing years fees.

Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,000 towards your tuition (2025/26).  You will be liable for the remainder of the total fee.  A P1 grant is where SUSI will pay tuition up to a maximum of €6,270. SUSI will not cover the student levy of €140.

Note to non-EU students: learn about the 24-month Stayback Visa here. 

Postgraduate Excellence Scholarships 

This scholarship is valued at €1,500 for EU students applying for full-time taught master's postgraduate courses. You will be eligible if: 

• You have been accepted to a full-time taught master's course at University of Galway,
• You have attained a first class honours (or equivalent) in a Level 8 primary degree.  

An application for the scholarship scheme is required (separate to the application for a place on the programme). The application portal for 2025 is now open and available here. Applications will close on the 30th September 2025. Full details available here.  

Global Scholarships

University of Galway offers a range of merit-based scholarships to students from a number of countries outside of the EU. Visit here for schemes currently available.  

Application Process 

Students applying for full time postgraduate programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.  

Our application portal opens on the 1st October each year for entry the following September.   

Further Information 

Please visit the postgraduate admissions webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application process. 

https://www.universityofgalway.ie/science-engineering/engineering/