Overview
How do I choose the right MS in Robotics program for me?

Choosing the right robotics program from a number of exceptional options can be difficult. Finding a good fit depends upon multiple factors and we encourage applicants to consider these five main areas when making their decision.

  1. SIZE: Do you prefer the intimacy of a small, close-knit program or the anonymity of large lecture halls and classes?

    The MSR program is intentionally kept relatively small – around 15-20 new students per year. Our size enhances collaboration within the cohort and provides increased opportunities for the students to interact directly with faculty members and guest speakers. Students form strong relationships with staff and each other which enhances both their professional and social networks.

  2. PACE: In what type of learning environment do you excel?

    MSR is a fast-paced, hands-on, and intense approach to learning. Some thrive in this “live, eat, breathe, and sleep” robotics culture, while others prefer a more relaxed approach. Our fast pace is challenging, but our graduates look back with appreciation after finding themselves thoroughly prepared for both the speed and the technical rigor of the high-tech robotics industry.

  3. ROBOTS: Will you have access to what you need?

    We believe the most effective way to learn about robotics is through a consistent, hands-on approach rather than primarily through book learning with occasional practical projects. Moreover, our view is that robotics cannot be effectively learned in simulation. We consider experience to be an essential part of the preparation for a career in robotics and we therefore prioritize students having access to working robots. MSR meticulously maintains a ratio of more than one robot per student and also purchases new robots every year to ensure students have exposure to cutting-edge, advanced technology.

  4. OVERALL COST: Are you considering all aspects of the financial commitment?

    Cost is not just about tuition; it also includes living expenses and lost income during the time you are in school. We intentionally designed MSR to be a one-year program to limit your time out of the workforce — with a one-year program, your career starts sooner. If the intensity of a shorter program appeals to you, there may be significant financial advantages to choosing this option over two-year options.

    Consider the chart below which visually expresses this overall cost difference. In this example, the OTHER SCHOOL would need to offer financial assistance of $140,000 in order to financially break even with the MSR program.

    We recognize that some students may have non-financial reasons to prefer a two-year program and that each candidate must weigh the potential financial benefit of a one-year program with those other benefits. We hope the example below helps you to make an informed decision when it comes time to choosing where you will study.

NORTHWESTERN'S

One-Year Program*

OTHER SCHOOL'S

Two-Year Program*
Tuition - Year one $90,000 $50,000
Tuition - Year two n/a $55,000
Living Expenses - Year one $25,000 $25,000
Living Expenses - Year two n/a $25,000
Lost Wages - Year one $75,000 $75,000
Lost Wages - Year two n/a $100,000**
TOTAL COST: $190,000 $330,000
*Numbers are for demonstration purposes; feel free to substitute your own for comparison.
**Conservative estimate of an MSR graduate's salary

  1. PREPARATION: How will you prove your worth to prospective employers?

    Through conversations with industry and academic leaders, we know that our graduates are hired by companies and prestigious labs based on the strength of their skills and experience. Therefore, to help students showcase these capabilities, rather than requiring them to write a thesis, we require them to develop a portfolio which highlights their most relevant experiences and knowledge.

    MSR graduates have expressed that the portfolio allows them to demonstrate how the skills and experience they gained through Northwestern’s MS in Robotics program translates into the important real-world skills desired by employers and PhD programs: deep robotics knowledge, the ability to work across teams at all levels of the robotics technical stack, and the experience to complete projects on tight timelines.

    If you would like to discuss this information in more detail as it pertains to the factors that are going into your decision, feel free to reach out to us. We’d be happy to help.