An Associate Degree in Robotics will provide you with the practical and technical skills to work in the robotics field. You will learn about network programming, microprocessors, microcomputers, and engineering fundamentals in robotics associate degree programs.
If you’d like to pursue a career as a robotics engineer, an associate degree would be a great place to start. We’ll show you some of the best Associate Degree in Robotics programs for the robotics industry and how you can leverage one of the best robotics associate degrees.
What Is Robotics?
Robotics is a technology field that focuses on the design, manufacture, and implementation of robots. This branch has been around for years and will continue to see increased demand as the need for automation grows. To work in this field, you must be proficient in different programming languages, have adequate hand dexterity, and understand engineering and mechanical engineering principles.
Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Robotics?
The best colleges where you can get an Associate Degree in Robotics include the California University of Pennsylvania, Collin College, and Marion Technical College. These colleges offer courses taught by faculty with expertise in the robotics field.
You can get an Associate Degree in Robotics at quite a few other colleges. However, if you want to know where to get a robotics associate degree that includes a stellar curriculum, these are some of your best options.
What Schools Offer the Best Robotics Associate Degrees?
- California University of Pennsylvania
- Collin College
- Dunwoody College of Technology
- Ivy Tech Community College
- Marion Technical College
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Robotics?
To meet most Associate in Robotics requirements, you must have a high school diploma or a GED. Most colleges require you to have finished high school with a GPA of 2.0 or higher. Once you’re in the program, you will need around 60 credits to graduate, equivalent to two years of a college education.
The admission requirements for an Associate Degree in Robotics also include an ACT score of 16 or higher. You will also likely need to provide your high school transcripts and two to three letters of recommendation with your college application. Typically, there are no coding language requirements for an Associate Degree in Robotics. If you want to get ahead of the game, familiarize yourself with C/C++ and Python languages.
Robotics Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- 2.0 or higher GPA
- ACT score of 16 or higher
- Transcripts and letters of recommendation
- Basic understanding of C/C++ and Python (optional)
How to Get an Associate Degree in Robotics
You can get an Associate Degree in Robotics by studying hard and earning the best grades possible in all of the required courses. Before starting a robotics associate degree, you should know that the course material will be tough; it is an engineering field, after all. You should also know that there will likely be computer science and engineering courses in your degree program as well.
The best way to get a robotics associate degree is to go into the program prepared for the curriculum. Some of the knowledge you will need going into a robotics associate degree program includes the basics of programming languages like C/C++ and Python. You should also have basic knowledge of computer science, engineering, and technology in general.
How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Robotics?
You need roughly 60 credits for an Associate Degree in Robotics. If you are enrolled in a quarter program rather than a semester program, you’ll need 90 credits. These credits will include general education requirements and required courses for the program. Some programs require more credits to graduate, with 80 credits per semester typically being the max.
Robotics Degree Requirements
- 30 general education and elective course credits
- 30 major-related course credits
- Intro to Engineering Technology course
- Fundamentals of Programmable Logic Controllers course
- 2.0 cumulative GPA
Best Robotics Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| California University of Pennsylvania | Associate of Applied Science in Robotics Engineering Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Collin College | Associate of Science in Robotics Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Dunwoody College of Technology | Associate of Applied Science in Automated Systems and Robotics | Higher Learning Commission |
| Ivy Tech Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Advanced Automation and Robotics Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Marion Technical College | Associate of Technical Studies in Robotics and Automation Engineering Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Oakland Community College | Associate in Applied Science in Robotics and Automated Systems Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Pikes Peak Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Robotics and Automation Systems Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Portland Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Mechatronics, Automation, and Robotics Engineering Technology | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| University of Northwestern Ohio | Associate of Applied Science in Robotics and Automation Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Washington State Community College | Associate Degree in Robotics and Mechatronics | Higher Learning Commission |
Best Schools for Robotics: Top Robotics Associate Degree Programs
The best schools for an Associate Degree in Robotics are discussed in detail here. Most of these universities provide in-person and online programs, but your exact options will vary by school. Keep in mind that all the information comes from each school’s official site.
If you are interested in one of these top robotics associate degree programs, you can find important information about location, tuition, and graduate rates here. We’ve already done all the research on the best robotics associate degree programs for you, right here.
Best Online Robotics Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| DeVry University | Associate Degree in Information Technology and Networking, Automation and Electronic Systems Specialization | Higher Learning Commission |
| Grantham University | Associate of Science in Electronics and Computer Engineering Technology | Distance Education Accrediting Commission |
| Madison Area Technical College | Associate Degree in Electronics | Higher Learning Commission |
| Midlands Technical College | Associate Degree in Mechatronics | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Texas State Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Robotics Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Best Colleges for Robotics: Top Online Robotics Associate Degree Programs
If you’re interested in learning robotics online, you’ll be glad to know that there are a few schools that allow students to complete their associate degrees remotely, in whole or in part. With that in mind, below are some flexible and hybrid ways you can obtain an Associate Degree in Robotics.
What Is a Robotics Associate Degree?
An Associate Degree in Robotics is a two-year program that will provide you with foundational engineering skills used by robotics engineers such as technical computing, math, physics, and even welding. These types of programs usually focus on hands-on experience and have a low cost.
If you pursue a robotics associate degree, you will likely have the opportunity to begin a four-year robotics degree right after graduating. A robotics associate degree prepares students for higher levels of robotics education throughout the course of its curriculum.
How Important Is an Associate Degree in Robotics?
It is important to have an Associate Degree in Robotics for anyone who wants to pursue higher-level education in robotics, as well as for those who want to become robotics engineers. Not only does an Associate Degree in Robotics help you earn certifications, it provides the backbone for further education.
The main reasons why a robotics associate degree is so important are:
- Preparation for higher education
- Provides you with necessary training for entry-level positions
- Gives you a solid foundation in the field of robotics
You can pursue a bachelor’s degree without an Associate Degree in Robotics, but it will set you behind in your education. By completing an associate degree first, you will have all of the foundational knowledge necessary to jump right into a bachelor’s degree. This means you can skip any prerequisite courses.
Once you have completed an Associate Degree in Robotics, you will be qualified enough for a few different entry-level jobs. These are typically technician jobs, and they provide necessary relevant work experience to help you advance in your career.
Finally, perhaps the biggest reason why a robotics associate degree is important is that it provides a solid foundation in the field of robotics. This will set you up not only for pursuing another degree but also for any jobs and self-study you want to do once you have finished the associate degree.
What Types of Associate Degree Can You Get in Robotics?
You can get the following types of associate degrees in robotics:
- Associate degree
- Associate of Science (AS)
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
So, what type of robotics associate degree should you get? The best associate degree type for robotics depends largely on your future educational and career goals. If you are planning on transferring to a four-year degree program, an associate or associate of science works well. If you plan to go straight into the workforce, you may want to consider an associate of applied science, as it is a more hands-on learning experience.
Is It Better to Get an Associate of Science or Associate of Applied Science in Robotics?
If you are planning to complete a higher-level degree before pursuing your career, it is better to get an associate of science because it provides a more rounded education. This degree focuses not only on robotics but also on preparing students for a higher level of education. Courses are often considered prerequisites for bachelor’s degree courses.
However, an associate of applied science degree is better for getting a job than an associate of science. The difference between these two degrees is that where an AS degree is focused on preparing students for higher education, an AAS degree is focused on preparing students for their careers as robotics engineers. Because of this, an AAS degree is better for getting you a job.
What Is the Difference Between a Robotics Associate Degree and a Robotics Certificate?
The main difference between a robotics associate degree and a certificate in robotics is that an associate degree prepares you for both a career and further education, while a certificate gets you career-ready. A degree teaches theoretical knowledge and skills, but a certificate only teaches skills.
You should get a robotics associate degree instead of a certificate because you will likely still need a degree in robotics even if you get a certificate. Most careers in robotics, other than entry-level ones, will require at least a bachelor’s degree and often a graduate degree. A robotics degree can be better than a certificate because it helps you prepare for higher-level careers.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Associate Degree in Robotics?
A robotics associate degree costs just under $4,000 per year. The expected total Associate Degree in Robotics cost is about $7,200. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average tuition cost of a two-year school is $3,621 per year.
The average cost of an Associate Degree in Robotics is significantly lower than the average cost of a bachelor’s degree. At $3,621 per year, an Associate Degree in Robotics costs about one-fifth of the average annual cost of a four-year degree.
Robotics Associate Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Robotics Degree
You can pay for your Associate Degree in Robotics in different ways, such as through loan financing, scholarships, upfront payment, and federal financial aid. Some institutions also accept GI Bill benefits from military veterans. All colleges provide various options, but these are some of the most common ones.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Robotics Associate Degree?
It takes approximately two years to get an Associate Degree in Robotics. An Associate Degree in Robotics length is typically broken up into four semesters. For each semester, you will enroll in roughly 15 credit hours.
While most students complete their Associate Degree in Robotics in two consecutive years, many colleges let you break up your education. You will likely be able to take a semester or two off and resume your studies later. The length of an Associate Degree in Robotics may also change if you take extra courses or fewer courses each semester.
How Hard Is It to Get an Associate Degree in Robotics?
An Associate Degree in Robotics is hard to get. Getting a robotics associate degree is hard because the field of robotics itself is complex. You have to study multiple fields, like computer science and engineering, before you start learning about robotics.
Why Should You Get a Robotics Associate Degree?
The benefits of getting an Associate Degree in Robotics are:
- Career-readiness
- Future education preparation
- Learning both theoretical and applicable knowledge
To reap the benefits of an Associate Degree in Robotics, you can find an entry-level robotics job, plan for a higher-level degree, and use both your theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills to advance your education and career. You can even pursue a second Associate Degree in Robotics to enhance your skills.
For example, if you earned an Associate or Associate of Science in Robotics, the benefits of getting a second Associate Degree in Robotics include becoming career-ready. You would likely pursue an associate of applied science, and this would teach you more of the hands-on skills needed for successful work while you plan your next steps.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Associate Degree Program in Robotics?
The required courses for robotics associate degrees are primarily foundational and prerequisite courses. The following Associate Degree in Robotics course list will give you a better idea of what courses are in an Associate Degree in Robotics program.
Intro to Engineering Technology
One of the staple robotics courses for an associate degree is Intro to Engineering Technology. The goal of this course is to familiarize students with the fundamentals of engineering technology. You’ll study different engineering disciplines, design processes, and various technical concepts.
Fundamentals of Programmable Logic Controllers
Another one of the courses required for most robotics associate degrees is Fundamentals of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). You will learn the basic components of PLCs, basic logic functions, the operation cycle of a PLC, and how to use bit instructions.
Programming for Electronics
Programming for Electronics is a course for a robotics associate degree you can expect to take in your second or third semester. This is also the type of class you may take for a computer science degree. This course will build on basic programming knowledge to teach you how to program various aspects of various electronics.
AC/DC Motor Controls
In an AC/DC Motor Controls course, you will study electric motors and motor control devices commonly found in industrial environments. This course will teach you how different functions and parts of motor controls work, as well as how to identify them.
Robotics Integration
Finally, another required class for most robotics associate degrees is Robotics Integration. This class will teach you how to use robotics systems in different, strategic areas to perform automated tasks. You will learn various systems and integration types.
Continuing Education Paths for Robotics Associate Degree Graduates
The best path to take with a robotics associate degree is to prepare for and pursue a graduate-level degree. The path after an Associate Degree in Robotics may include a four-year degree and eventually a graduate-level degree. We recommend pursuing at least a bachelor’s. A master’s or higher will yield the best employability.
Related Robotics Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Robotics Associate Degree Programs
The best robotics associate degree programs have accreditation, flexible scheduling, affordable tuition, continuing education options, and no barriers to admission. You can expect all of these things from a good robotics associate degree program. If you want to know how to choose a robotics associate degree program, take a look at the in-depth discussion of each of these points below.
Accreditation
An accreditation is recognition from a qualified agency that a school meets a predetermined level of educational standards. This is important when searching for a robotics associate degree program because it will help you determine which schools are offering legitimate robotics education, rather than a basic technology-centered education.
Flexibility
Schedule flexibility is the ability to take classes without sticking to a rigorous schedule. This is most common in online or hybrid programs, but some in-person programs offer courses on multiple schedules. This is important if you plan to work while you study because these programs work with you to determine the best class schedule for your personal needs.
Cost
Cost is almost always an important factor, unless you have a full-ride scholarship. Determining the cost of a robotics associate degree program and comparing it with others can help you determine if you need student loans, scholarships and grants, or if your college savings will cover everything.
Continuing Education Options
Many don’t consider continuing education options when deciding on a program, but this is especially important for robotics, seeing as you will likely need a higher-level degree. Many of the colleges listed in this article offer continuing education paths so that you can start your bachelor’s degree right after finishing your associate degree. This simplifies things for the student.
Barriers to Admission
If you graduated high school with a low GPA, or didn’t graduate at all and instead earned a GED certificate, considering possible barriers to admission is important. Common barriers include requiring a high GPA, high ACT/SAT scores, and transportation issues. Ensuring your program does not have any barriers to your admission is key to finding the right program.
What Is the Most Affordable Robotics Associate Degree?
The most affordable Associate Degrees in Robotics are:
- Oakland Community College’s AAS in Robotics and Automated Systems Learning
- Collin College’s AS in Robotics Technology
- Texas State Technical College’s AAS in Robotics Technology
- Midlands Technical College’s Associate in Mechatronics
- University of Northwestern Ohio’s AAS in Robotics and Automation Technology
If you want an affordable Associate Degree in Robotics, these programs are the way to go. Tuition for each of these programs remains under $15,000 for the entirety of the program.
Salary and Job Outlook for Robotics Associate Degree Graduates
There are quite a few robotics associate degree jobs available for when you graduate. The average Associate Degree in Robotics salary is decent, and you will likely find high job satisfaction at any of the robotics-related jobs available with an associate degree.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Robotics Associate Degree?
It can be hard to get a job with an Associate Degree in Robotics because this is a field that typically requires robotics professionals to have a lot of education and experience. After earning an Associate Degree in Robotics, you will find it easiest to get a paid internship or technician job. Other positions will be more difficult to get, but certainly not impossible.
What’s the Average Robotics Associate Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with an Associate Degree in Robotics is $74,000 per year. With this type of degree, you can work as an automation engineer, making an annual salary of $84,929. You will also have access to technical writer positions, which pay $63,139 yearly.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Robotics Associate Degree?
The jobs you can get with a robotics associate degree are listed below. These are some of the highest-paying robotics jobs for associate degree holders, but they are primarily entry-level jobs. As you progress in your education and as a robotics professional, your pay is likely to increase significantly.
Robotics Degree Jobs
- Electromechanical Technician
- Robotics Technician
- Computer Programmer
- Maintenance Mechanic
- Field Service Engineer
Potential Careers With a Robotics Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Robotics?
You can make between $60,000 and $80,000 per year with an Associate Degree in Robotics. PayScale estimates that the average salary for someone with an Associate Degree in Robotics and Automation is about $74,000 per year.
Meanwhile, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average mechatronics technologist or technician earns about $59,800 per year. This is the most common robotics career path for an associate degree holder.
There are other jobs that an associate degree can help you get. Most of these are entry-level positions in electro-mechanical or mechatronics technology. Others may require some additional education or training. The following table will show you some of the best options.
Highest-Paying Robotics Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Robotics Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Sales Engineer | $103,710 |
| Computer Programmer | $93,000 |
| Aerospace Engineer/Operations Technician | $73,580 |
| Electronic Engineering Technician | $63,640 |
| Mechatronics or Electro-Mechanical Technologist | $60,360 |
| Mechatronics or Electro-Mechanical Technician | $60,360* |
| Industrial Engineering Technician | $60,220 |
| Robotics Technician | $55,982 |
| Manufacturing Technician | $50,437 |
| Quality Control Technician | $38,580 |
*Information sourced from the BLS page for Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians
Best Jobs for Robotics Associate Degree Grads
The best jobs for robotics associate degree grads are discussed in-depth below. These are some of the best-paying robotics associate degree jobs. Most of these jobs also have decent job outlooks, making them the best robotics jobs with an associate degree.
*Information sourced from the BLS page for Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians
**Information sourced from the BLS page for Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Robotics Bootcamp vs Robotics Associate Degree: Which Is Better?
An Associate Degree in Robotics is better than a robotics bootcamp when comparing the employment prospects of a robotics degree vs bootcamp education. This is because most employers in this field prefer candidates who are college-educated.
However, there are benefits to both a robotics associate degree and coding bootcamp education, as you can see below. This will help you determine if a robotics degree is better than a coding bootcamp.
Benefits of a Robotics Associate Degree
- Employability. One of the biggest benefits of earning a robotics associate degree is employability. In this specific field, employers are more likely to hire college-educated candidates over bootcamp graduates. You will also likely earn more.
- Theoretical Knowledge. Robotics associate degree programs teach an even balance of hands-on skills and theoretical knowledge. This helps you learn not just how to work with robotics, but also why and how different things happen and function.
- Rounded Education. In a robotics associate degree program, you will gain a well-rounded education. All of your general education requirements must be met to graduate, meaning you will study math, English, various sciences, and a few extracurriculars.
- Slower-Paced Education. Though two years is not a tremendously long time, it is a decent pace for a robotics education. An associate degree program gives you plenty of time to study and absorb information as it is taught, rather than rushing you through it.
- Continuing Education Options. As mentioned earlier, many robotics associate degree programs offer great continuing education options. Having these programs that allow you to seamlessly transition from a two-year degree into a four-year degree can be extremely helpful in pursuing higher education.
Benefits of a Robotics Bootcamp
- Career-Focused. All of the education you receive in a robotics bootcamp will be geared toward the current robotics career market. You will learn all of the most up-to-date processes and functions for robotics.
- Duration. If you want a fast education, a robotics bootcamp is a great option. Bootcamps typically last a few weeks to a few months, meaning you could get your robotics career started much faster than you would with an associate degree.
- Skills Taught. Rather than focusing on theories and explanations, robotics bootcamps focus on teaching hands-on skills. These are the skills most necessary for a robotics job, and you will become much more proficient than you would in a college program.
- Small Cohorts. Bootcamps tend to have smaller cohorts than associate degree programs. In a typical college program, you can expect to be in a class with anywhere from 15 to 50 students. In bootcamps, almost all cohorts are 20 or fewer students.
- Few Admissions Requirements. Robotics bootcamps typically don’t require you to provide your high school transcripts, GPA, diploma, or standardized test scores to be admitted. You may be required to complete a skills assessment prior to registering, but this is usually the extent of the admissions requirements.
Is an Associate Degree in Robotics Worth It?
Yes, an Associate Degree in Robotics is worth it. Robotics is an in-demand field in the tech industry that could provide you with a stable and lucrative career. However, the robotics and automation branch of technology is extremely technical, so you should be prepared to study complicated computer science and engineering topics.
For anyone considering a career in robotics, earning an Associate Degree in Robotics is a great place to start. You will gain a well-rounded education, learn the fundamentals of computer science and engineering alongside robotics, and set yourself up for a successful and high-paying career.
Additional Reading About Robotics
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Robotics Associate Degree FAQ
A bachelor’s degree is best for a robotics career. However, an associate degree can give a head start on gaining the entry-level experience you need for a role in robotics engineering.
Yes, you will most likely need a degree to work in robotics. Robotics is a highly technical career, so most employers want to ensure that potential candidates have at least a bachelor’s or associate degree in a relevant field.
Yes, robotics is in high demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for electrical and electronics engineers will grow 7 percent from 2020 to 2030. However, the number of entry-level technician jobs in robotics is expected to decrease by 2 percent, mostly due to automation.
Programming is used in robotics to provide instructions to robots. Programming is the communication system between the machines and human directions. Some of the most common programming languages used in robotics are Python and C++.
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