Master of Science - Automation and Control Engineering (Professional Placement)

The Automation and Control Engineering MSc course enables students to work with state-of-the-art robotic and haptic systems, providing hands-on experience with industry-relevant platforms. These include Franka Emika Research 3 collaborative manipulators and FANUC industrial robots, alongside advanced legged and humanoid platforms such as the Unitree G1 and H1 humanoids and Unitree quadrupedal robots (B1 and Go2). Students also have access to Geomagic Touch haptic interfaces, which enable interaction with robotic systems through force feedback and support applications in teleoperation and human–robot interaction. Based at the Roehampton Vale campus, these facilities offer a modern, robotics-focused environment where students can develop practical skills in automation, control, and intelligent systems. Within the Robotics modules, industry-leading software is used to provide a realistic, hands-on experience. RoboDK is employed for intuitive robot simulation and offline programming, allowing students to visualise and refine robot paths using its extensive robot library and robust post-processing features. CoppeliaSim provides a flexible 3D simulation platform that supports multiple physics engines and incorporates a powerful API for modelling complex robotic scenarios. Additionally, Matlab/Simulink is used for robotics, control, and machine learning, supporting detailed system modelling, real-time simulation, algorithm development, and automatic code generation. Together, these tools ensure that students acquire the practical skills necessary to excel in robotic control and advanced automation. The programme’s applied teaching approach is supported by dedicated laboratories for mechanical, automotive, and motorsport engineering. These include wind tunnels, state-of-the-art rapid prototyping and manufacturing machinery, and a fully equipped materials laboratory. Students can also gain experience in engine test cells, an automotive diagnostics laboratory, and a modern electronics and robotics lab. Expert academic support is provided by faculty members with strong industry links, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience. Academic staff within the Department of Mechanical Engineering continue to practise and research at the forefront of their discipline, while the London location places students at the centre of one of the world’s leading engineering and technology hubs. The course is designed to keep graduates at the leading edge of technological innovation, equipping them with the skills and knowledge required to take on leadership roles in advanced engineering sectors. Students can also obtain an MSc accredited by the Engineering Council and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, meeting in part the requirements for registration as a Chartered Engineer. Modern automation and control engineering extends far beyond traditional robotics, covering a wide range of applications where intelligent decision-making and feedback control are essential. Examples include automated manufacturing systems, autonomous vehicles, smart sensing platforms, and advanced healthcare technologies such as assistive and rehabilitation devices. A strong hands-on approach lies at the core of the course. Students work in the university’s state-of-the-art robotics laboratory, using advanced platforms such as industrial and collaborative manipulators, humanoid and quadrupedal robots, and haptic interfaces. This practical experience, combined with the use of industry-standard software and control tools, enables the development and validation of real-world solutions in automation, robotics, and intelligent systems. The course is closely aligned with the research activities of the teaching staff, incorporating the latest advances from their ongoing studies. Through applied research, students are given the opportunity to conduct their own investigations within an individual, industry-relevant capstone project. This includes the preparation of a scientific paper, providing an opportunity to achieve a first breakthrough in publishing original work. To undertake a placement, students are required to pass all modules on the first attempt, with no reassessments. It is the student’s responsibility to secure a suitable paid placement, supported by the university’s dedicated placement team.