Enquire to study in the UK 
Explaining robotics to a classroom of students is one thing; letting them dive into its mechanics hands-on is another. For Tjeerd, the latter sparked his interest in robotics as an BSc Electrical Engineering student. He’s since gained substantial experience through various projects, including learning to control a mini-Segway with his team using sensors, actuators, and mathematical models. He recalls a corridor filled with Segways from different teams — each building skills and camaraderie through shared learning.
Tjeerd graduated with his bachelor’s from the University of Twente (UT), a top research university in Europe. Reflecting on his experience, he said, “I really like the practical way of learning, and — judging by what I hear from students at other universities — it is also really unique to Twente.”
With a strong connection to UT, Tjeerd knew his journey there wasn’t over. Determined to pursue robotics further, he enrolled in its Master’s in Robotics. He joined as part of the inaugural class in 2022 — a slight risk that ultimately proved worthwhile.
“The Master’s in Robotics is quite focused on challenge-based learning,” he says. “You get to work on hands-on projects that arise directly from societal or business-related challenges.”
The University of Twente offers cutting-edge programmes in artificial intelligence and robotics, allowing students to stay ahead of the technological game. Source: University of Twente
The theme of real-world learning persists throughout UT’s artificial intelligence (AI) programmes, which prepare you with the tools and skills needed to spearhead technological advancements. Here, AI is approached from a more humanitarian perspective, studying how these innovations can sprout a better functioning society. Aside from robotics, UT offers master’s degrees in Computer Science, Interaction Technology, Electrical Engineering, and more.
The electrical engineering route was an easy decision for Dimitrios, a student from Greece. He gravitated to UT for its “reputation in engineering and entrepreneurial focus.” He was also intrigued by the option it gave him to specialise in robotics and mechatronics — at the time, the standalone robotics programme had not been established.
Now that this specialisation no longer exists under the Master’s in Electrical Engineering programme, students are welcome to focus their attention on one of 11 other specialisations, like radio systems, nanoelectronics, integrated circuit design, and more. All routes are as experiential as can be.
“In one assignment, my project group created a digital version of an industrial robot,” recalls Dimitrios. “We used computer simulations to understand how the arm would move, which was super useful for learning how to design and simulate robotic systems.”
The ability to innovate technological designs is a skill easily sharpened at UT, thanks to its cutting-edge research environment. As a master’s student here, you’ll conduct multidisciplinary studies in subject areas that fire your passion. Throughout, you’ll be backed by scientists whose expertise lands in areas like climate change, nanotherapeutics, and quantum mechanics. Their research fuels progress across engineering, natural sciences, health, behavioural sciences, and management.
The University of Twente offers world-class research facilities where students, professors, and industry scientists bring their innovations into motion. Source: University of Twente
All studies to life against a backdrop of cutting-edge facilities equipped with industry-leading technology. UT is home to several first-class research institutes. You’ll have access to world-leading laboratories like the Mesa+ Institute for Nanotechnology, which is home to over 500 researchers, and the TechMed Centre, a comprehensive hub for healthcare research and simulations.
“Honestly, I feel lucky because, as a student, I have access to high-tech facilities like the Robotics and Mechatronics (RAM) lab, which has awesome equipment, such as 3D printers for design tests, robotic arms, and sensors that collect real-time data,” says Dimitrios.
However, what truly prepares UT students for the workforce is its focus on flexibility. You’re never confined to a single laboratory — students, professors, and scientists work together across disciplines to find holistic solutions to global issues, often collaborating with UT’s business and government partners.
An example: last year, researchers and medical specialists from UT and Ziekenhuisgroep Twente (“Hospital Group Twente”) devised a smart app called “Diameter” to guide diabetes patients through changes in their lifestyle. The project was done in collaboration with the research and development department at The Roessingh — a local rehabilitation centre.
These immersive learning opportunities will get your foot through the door before you reach the finish line at graduation. If you need further guidance or redirection, the Career Services at UT supplements your academic learning with support systems built in place. One-on-one counselling, study choice tests, workshops, and Jobteaser — a platform for navigating the extensive job searching process — are all available as extra stepping stones.
Learn more about the University of Twente and its AI and robotics-focused programmes. Dive deeper into your options by joining the Online Master Open Day, which will be held on the 20th of November 2024 from 5PM CET to 7:30PM CET.
Follow the University of Twente on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn
