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Course summary

FARSCOPE aims to train the next generation of innovators in the growing field of robotics and autonomous systems (RAS). The vision of the programme is ubiquity - or robots everywhere - enabling students to think beyond a robot's technology and about its environment. Our programme leads to the award of a joint PhD degree from both the University of Bristol and the University of the West of England. A PhD is a uniquely challenging and rewarding endeavour, especially in a cutting-edge field such as RAS. We have enhanced the standard individual PhD in various ways to give you the best possible start on your RAS research and innovation career. This programme includes:

  • specialist taught modules in a wide variety of RAS technologies to equip you for research;
  • exposure to a diverse range of industry and academic RAS topics to give you a broad view of the potential and context of RAS;
  • cohort-based skills training, including enterprise, public engagement, communication and research methods;
  • group projects and industry study workshops to foster creativity, practical skills and integration.
You will have your choice of specialist topics from more than 50 academic supervisors. The centre is based at the Bristol Robotics Lab, the largest specialist robotics laboratory in the UK, plus you'll have access to all the combined facilities of both partner universities.

Assessment method

https://bristol.ac.uk/study/media/postgraduate/admissions-statements/2023/phd-robotics-autonomous-systems.pdf


How to apply

International applicants

The University of Bristol welcomes applications from international students and accepts a wide range of qualifications for postgraduate study. If you study or have studied at a university outside the UK, please select the relevant page for further information on qualifications, scholarships and education representatives in your country/region: bristol.ac.uk/international/countries

Entry requirements

An upper second-class honours degree in engineering, physics, mathematics or a related subject. Other disciplines will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Students who have completed our MSc in Robotics may be considered, on a case-by-case basis, for direct entry into the second year of this PhD programme. This will be subject to an interview, which will include a qualifying presentation on research. See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.


Fees and funding

Tuition fees

England £4665 Year 1
Northern Ireland £4665 Year 1
Scotland £4665 Year 1
Wales £4665 Year 1
Channel Islands £4665 Year 1
EU £25300 Year 1
International £25300 Year 1

Additional fee information

Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year. For more information, please view the programme page on our website.

Sponsorship information

The FARSCOPE CDT programme has funds to support up to ten UK/EU students per year including fees, stipend (at standard RCUK rates), research and travel expenses. The programme has no internal funding for non-EU students, but any applications received from self-funded international students will be considered.

Robotics and Autonomous Systems at University of Bristol - UCAS