Robotics Doctoral Program

In the robotics doctoral program at Stevens, you’ll conduct groundbreaking research to develop innovative robotic solutions that advance technologies ranging from self-driving cars and aerospace robotics to wearables and robotic rehabilitation devices.

The Ph.D. program in Robotics equips you with a deep foundation in robotics engineering, and advanced robotics skills through interdisciplinary research, hands-on experience in robotics and mechatronics labs. You’ll engage with cutting-edge coursework that spans autonomous systems, AI, robotic perception, and control of cyber-physical systems.

As a robotics Ph.D. candidate, you’ll leave the program with advanced knowledge in designing and analyzing robotic systems with a focus on sensing, actuation, and control. As you explore complementary areas in computer science, biomedical engineering, electrical engineering, and applied mathematics, you’ll develop hands-on skills in programming, testing, and deploying robots while becoming proficient in key tools, algorithms, and real-time control systems used in state-of-the-art robotics research and development.

Robotics doctoral program graduates will be prepared for high-level careers in robotics engineering research and development, academic research, government labs, and robotics startups. Whether you're building intelligent machines, designing robotic surgical tools, or advancing automation in smart manufacturing, the Stevens robotics Ph.D. program will position you as a leader in one of the world’s most transformative fields.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering offers dynamic opportunities to explore leading-edge research within a close community of faculty mentors. You'll be able to study under a faculty mentor in the area that you find most exciting:

• Applications of AI in Robotics

• Autonomous Navigation and Mobile Robotics

• Control Systems

• Cyber-Physical Security

• Human-Robot Interaction (HRI)

• Medical Robotics

• Perception, Sensing and Computer Vision

• Robot Manipulation and Grasping

• Soft Robotics

• Wearable Robotics and Biomechatronics

The Stevens Advantage: Widen Your Career Options

Stevens’ location in Hoboken, just minutes from Manhattan, offers robotics Ph.D. students unparalleled access to a growing tech and innovation hub. The surrounding NY/NJ region is home to leading robotics companies, AI startups, and advanced manufacturing firms actively seeking skilled talent. As the only university in the metro area offering a dedicated Ph.D. in Robotics, Stevens provides a unique gateway to industry engagement, research collaboration, and high-impact career opportunities in the heart of a rapidly evolving tech ecosystem.

Learn more about what makes graduate education from Stevens a unique experience:

• Graduate Cooperative Education Program: Available with two tracks, your co-op experience can serve as a starting point for a research project or augment your on-campus research with complimentary experience.

• International Student Experience: Tap into our expanding worldwide network of research, academic and alumni partners and mentor with our expert faculty in a number of federally-designated STEM degree programs. Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is available to gain work experience in your major/field of study.

• State-of-the-Art Research Labs and Facilities: Build, tinker and test your designs in Stevens' MakerCenter, Prototype and Object Fabrication Lab, or numerous other research facilities.

• Research Opportunities: Renowned faculty, labs and research centers – as well as industry partnerships and funding from leading national agencies – support strategic and interdisciplinary research in engineering and science.

• Assistantships and Fellowships: Stevens offers funding to select graduate students in the form of teaching assistantships, research assistantships and fellowships. Limited in number, these highly competitive opportunities are awarded to exceptional candidates based on merit.

• Expanded Learning Options: The Schaefer School offers new opportunities for doctoral students to do coursework at universities in the New York City area – and around the world – through our growing list of academic partnerships with other prestigious universities. Learn more about our latest partnerships.

Photo: Michael MarquandHands-On Robotics Research

Stevens’ Ph.D. program in Robotics is supported by a dynamic group of faculty from mechanical engineering, electrical and computer engineering, and computer science, whose expertise spans mobile and wearable robots, soft robotics, robot-human interaction, computer vision, and autonomous systems.

Students work closely with faculty on cutting-edge research in areas such as safe autonomy, robotic manipulation, adaptive control, and cyber-physical systems. The program is growing rapidly, with plans to expand its core faculty and research capabilities in the coming years.