Robotics and Autonomy/Automation is an emerging field involving multiple engineering disciplines. Advanced intelligent hardware devices and software currently make it possible to design elegant and sophisticated autonomous robotic devices whose capabilities far surpass older purely electro-mechanical automation systems. These systems will often be connected to the internet or allow some type of remote monitoring, and thus they will be vulnerable to various types of cyber-attacks. These systems must be made reliable, safe, and secure.
In order to advance the state of the art for such systems, this program provides students specialized training in a number of disciplines, including computer science, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, systems engineering, and project management. Students are exposed to the broad set of topics they need to envision new systems, while allowing them to develop the multidisciplinary set of skills they need to build these reliable, safe, secure, and trusted systems of the future.
The Master of Engineering (MEng) program provides a graduate degree that focuses on the practice of engineering in order to better serve working professionals. Rather than culminate in a research experience and a thesis, the Master of Engineering curriculum provides skills and expertise that enhance the individual's ability to contribute to the technical workforce. The difference between the traditional Master of Science degree and the MEng degree is not on the rigor of the coursework or a lack of competencies, but rather on the focus of the curriculum.
The program provides advanced training to students interested in expanding their knowledge and expertise. Depending on a student's interest, the degree could add significant depth to an individual's understanding of the practice of engineering or the program could be constructed to focus on greater interdisciplinary breadth if that is the educational objective of the student. In today's competitive technology environment, industries need to have highly skilled practicing engineers who are flexible in their professional capabilities. The MEng program is a practice oriented, focused degree and caters to this need.