BITS Pilani Dubai leads the way with a new bachelor's degree in robotics and industrial automation.
BITS Pilani Dubai Campus (BPDC) has made a significant stride in the realm of engineering education by introducing a new Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) programme in Robotics and Industrial Automation. This is the first time this specialized programme is being introduced across any BITS Pilani campus.
The programme, developed jointly by the Mechanical, Electrical, and Computer Science departments, places equal emphasis on theoretical knowledge and extensive hands-on lab-based learning, with twelve courses featuring dedicated laboratory sessions supported by advanced facilities.
The curriculum includes foundational courses in mechanical, electronic, and computer systems, alongside specialised subjects such as Introduction to Mechanisms and Robotics, AI for robotics, robot dynamics and control, Embedded System for Robotics, Industrial Automation & Control, Computer Vision and Sensors, Actuators & Signal Conditioning. Students will gain practical experience with industry-relevant tools like Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), SCADA systems, STM32 microcontrollers, CAD/CAE platforms, and Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI).
The new programme aligns with the rapidly growing robotics and automation market, which was valued at USD 62.75 billion in 2019 and is projected to nearly triple by 2027. The UAE and the wider GCC region are emerging leaders in robotics driven by smart city developments, AI innovation, and investments in industries such as logistics, manufacturing, energy, and healthcare.
Nahid Afshan, head of admissions at BPDC, commented that the introduction of this programme reflects their ongoing commitment to offering cutting-edge, industry-relevant education. "By equipping students with foundational and interdisciplinary knowledge in robotics, industrial automation, and artificial intelligence combined with practical experience, BPDC aims to prepare graduates to meet the demands of this dynamic and expanding market," she said.
Graduates of the programme can explore roles such as Robotics Engineer, Mechatronics Engineer, Controls Engineer, Robotics Software Developer, Automation Engineer, and Field Robotics Technician. Admissions are now open for the B.E. in Robotics and Industrial Automation, and high school students with a background in Physics and Mathematics are encouraged to apply.
As an international campus of the prestigious BITS Pilani, BPDC offers students a globally benchmarked education. Students can choose from a wide range of electives in areas such as deep learning, autonomous aerospace vehicles, machine learning, digital twins in mechanical engineering, cyber Physical Systems and Security, AR/VR in Robotics, and Bio-Inspired Intelligence.
The programme opens up opportunities to work with leading companies in the UAE and India such as Siemens, Schneider Electric, Honeywell, Emerson Automation, Weidmuller, FESTO, Digi Robotics, IQ Robotics, Ameca Robotics, DEWA, Emirates Airlines, Techrobotix, and Larsen & Toubro.
Prof. Souri Banerjee is the director of BPDC, and Prof. Vincent Shantha Kumar, an associate professor and head of the programme, has overseen its development. The courses and curriculum for the new programme have been benchmarked with top universities across the globe offering Robotics education.
References: 1. BPDC Press Release 2. Market Research Report 3. UAE Vision 2021
- The BITS Pilani Dubai Campus (BPDC) has launched a Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) program in Robotics and Industrial Automation, the first of its kind across any BITS Pilani campus.
- The curriculum integrates foundational courses in mechanical, electronic, and computer systems with specialized subjects like AI for robotics, robot dynamics and control, and Computer Vision and Sensors.
- Students will gain hands-on experience with industry-relevant tools like Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), SCADA systems, and CAD/CAE platforms, preparing them for roles in robotics, mechatronics, control engineering, and more.
- With the robotics and automation market projected to nearly triple by 2027, the UAE and GCC region, driven by smart city developments and investments in industries like logistics, manufacturing, energy, and healthcare, offer significant career opportunities for graduates.
- In addition to industry-focused education, BPDC offers electives in cutting-edge areas such as deep learning, autonomous aerospace vehicles, and AR/VR in Robotics, providing students with a comprehensive education in the field.
- Graduates can pursue careers with leading companies in the UAE and India, including Siemens, Schneider Electric, Honeywell, Emerson Automation, and Digi Robotics, among others.
