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Princeton University offers a PhD program in Robotics, providing a multidisciplinary approach to this rapidly expanding field. While the program is based within the Department of Molecular Biology for admissions and funding, the coursework integrates various engineering and scientific disciplines, including mechanical design, computer science, electrical engineering, and bioinspired design. Students will engage with both theoretical principles and hands-on project experience, preparing them for advanced research and careers in robotics. The curriculum is designed to give students a strong foundation in core robotics concepts, such as inverse kinematics, motion planning, localization, mapping, vision, and reinforcement learning. The program emphasizes practical application through team-based design and fabrication projects, leveraging tools like CAD, CAE, and CAM. This interdisciplinary training fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills, crucial for innovation in areas from autonomous vehicles to robotic manipulators. While the university does not offer a Master's degree in this specific area, the doctoral program provides comprehensive financial support, including tuition, health insurance, and a generous annual stipend. International students are highly encouraged to apply, joining a diverse academic community focused on cutting-edge research in robotics.
Curriculum
The Robotics program integrates various engineering and computer science disciplines. Core modules cover theoretical principles and practical applications through hands-on projects.
- Typical Modules
- Mechanical DesignMAE 322/ROB 322
- Introduction to RoboticsMAE 345/COS 345/ECE 345/ROB 345
- Computational Thinking for Design, Architecture, and EngineeringARC 374/CEE 373/ROB 373
- Microprocessors for Measurement and ControlMAE 412/ROB 412
- Bioinspired DesignMAE 416/EEB 416/ROB 416
Frequently asked questions
- What is the application deadline for the PhD in Robotics program?
- Applications are accepted only for the Fall term, and the strict deadline is in early December.
- What are the tuition fees for international students in the PhD Robotics program?
- All admitted PhD students receive comprehensive financial support, including full tuition coverage.
- What financial support is available for PhD students in Robotics?
- All admitted PhD students receive comprehensive financial support, including tuition, health insurance, and a stipend of $54,216 USD for the 2025-2026 academic year.
- What are the entry requirements for the Robotics PhD program?
- The program welcomes applicants from diverse academic backgrounds and evaluates applications holistically, considering research experience, academic performance, and letters of recommendation. You may need to provide English language proficiency scores if applicable.
- How do I apply to the Robotics PhD program?
- The application process is managed through the Department of Molecular Biology's graduate admissions. You will need to complete an online application, submit transcripts, provide three letters of recommendation, and potentially English language proficiency scores.
- Does Princeton offer a Master's degree in Robotics?
- No, Princeton University does not offer a Master's degree in this specific area, but the doctoral program provides a comprehensive robotics education.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeApplicants from diverse academic backgrounds (e.g., biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics) are encouraged. No rigid prerequisites, but strong academic performance is expected.
TOEFLOfficial scores required if subject to Princeton's English Language Proficiency policy. Institution Code: 2672.
IELTSOfficial scores required if subject to Princeton's English Language Proficiency policy.
DETOfficial scores required if subject to Princeton's English Language Proficiency policy.
The Admission Committee evaluates each application holistically, considering research experience, coursework performance, and letters of recommendation. Promising applicants will be invited for an interview, typically in January or February.
Fees
Tuition (international)All admitted students receive full tuition coverage.
Tuition (home)All admitted students receive full tuition coverage.
LivingThe stipend for the 2025-2026 academic year is $54,216 USD.
All admitted PhD students receive comprehensive financial support, including tuition, health insurance, and a generous stipend.
How to apply
1. Complete Online ApplicationFill out the web-based application form via the Princeton Graduate Admission portal.
2. Submit TranscriptsUpload scanned versions of your official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended.
3. Arrange Letters of RecommendationEnsure three letters of recommendation are submitted on your behalf. These should ideally come from professors or supervisors familiar with your academic and research capabilities.
4. Provide English Language Proficiency Scores (if required)If you are subject to Princeton's English Language Proficiency policy, submit official TOEFL (Institution Code 2672), IELTS, or DET scores directly from the testing service.
5. Attend Interview (if invited)Promising applicants will be invited for an interview, typically held in January or February. This is a crucial part of the admission decision.
Scholarships
National Science Foundation (NSF) FellowshipsVaries
Department of Energy (DOE) FellowshipsVaries
Department of Defense (DOD) FellowshipsVaries
Hertz Foundation FellowshipsVaries
National Institutes of Health (NIH/NRSA) FellowshipsVaries
Frequently asked questions
What is the application deadline for the PhD in Robotics program?
+
Applications are accepted only for the Fall term, and the strict deadline is in early December.
What are the tuition fees for international students in the PhD Robotics program?
+
All admitted PhD students receive comprehensive financial support, including full tuition coverage.
What financial support is available for PhD students in Robotics?
+
All admitted PhD students receive comprehensive financial support, including tuition, health insurance, and a stipend of $54,216 USD for the 2025-2026 academic year.
What are the entry requirements for the Robotics PhD program?
+
The program welcomes applicants from diverse academic backgrounds and evaluates applications holistically, considering research experience, academic performance, and letters of recommendation. You may need to provide English language proficiency scores if applicable.
How do I apply to the Robotics PhD program?
+
The application process is managed through the Department of Molecular Biology's graduate admissions. You will need to complete an online application, submit transcripts, provide three letters of recommendation, and potentially English language proficiency scores.
Does Princeton offer a Master's degree in Robotics?
+
No, Princeton University does not offer a Master's degree in this specific area, but the doctoral program provides a comprehensive robotics education.