Robotics at University
Undergraduate
Undergraduate degrees in engineering (mechanical, electrical, software, computer systems or mechatronic), and to a lesser extent information technology, cognitive science and similar topics allow students to pursue an interest in robotics.
A number of institutions around Australia offer degrees with extensive relevance to robotics.
- Australian National University: Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronic Systems)
- Deakin University: Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics or Robotics)
- Monash University: Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics)
- Queensland University of Technology: Bachelor of Engineering (Infomechatronics)
- University of Adelaide: Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics)
- University of Melbourne: Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics)
- University of New South Wales: Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronic Engineering)
- University of Newcastle: Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics)
- University of Queensland: Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics)
- University of Sydney: Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronic Engineering)
- University of Technology, Sydney: Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronic)
- University of Western Australia: Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics)
- University of Western Sydney: Bachelor of Engineering (Robotics and Mechatronics)
- University of Wollongong: Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics)
Postgraduate
Due to Australia's position as a leader in robotics research, there are and will continue to be many opportunities for postgraduate robotics research at Australian institutions.
Prospective postgraduate students should see the research page for current projects which may have positions available.
RoboCup
RoboCup is an international robotics research and education program. The stated mission of the program is to have a team of humanoid soccer robots defeat the human world champions by the year 2050. The program is based around various versions of robot soccer, but also encompasses a rescue league and a world RoboCupJunior league. Each year competitors from around the world gather for a combined conference and competition.
Participants can enter teams in a variety of soccer leagues, each requiring the application of a diverse range of technologies.
- Simulation League - In the simulation league participants must develop AI for a team of 11 simulated autonomous players. Matches are run at the competition using specially developed software. Participants are often attracted to this league by the lack of expensive hardware requirements.
- Small-Size League - In the small-size league participants must design and build a team of 5 small robots. In addition to local sensors, teams may use an overhead camera or cameras for sensing. Robots may communicate wirelessly both with a host computer and each other. Participants and spectators are often attracted to this league by the dynamic and fast-paced nature of the matches.
- Middle-Size League - In the middle-size league robots are larger and heavier then those in the small-size league, and must carry all sensors on-board. However, they may still communicate wirelessly with each other and a host computer. Participants are often attracted to the middle-size league by it's direct relevance to other mobile robot research.
- Sony Legged Robot League - In the legged league participants must program a team of Sony AIBO legged robots. This standardization of hardware often attracts teams interested in minimizing initial development time while still operating in a real environment.
- Humanoid League - In the humanoid league teams must develop a humanoid robot able to perform a number of tasks. These tasks include balancing on one leg, walking and performing a penalty kick. There is also a freestyle section where the robot can demonstrate other relevant abilities. Participants in this league are often attracted to the particular challenges involved in the development of a successful humanoid robot.
Participants can also enter the Robot and Simulation leagues of the Rescue competition, which is designed to model the challenges involved in a disaster rescue operation.
For more information follow the links below.