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Unread 17-01-2006, 12:58
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ZZII 527 ZZII 527 is offline
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Re: what colleges have good robotics majors

Quote:
Originally Posted by Kims Robot
MIT is one of the biggest researchers of AI and robotics.

A Google Search on "MIT Robotics" shows that they have a ton of laboratories and groups associated with robotics. They have also graduated founders of many major robotics companies such as iRobot the creators of the Roomba and many military robots.

MIT also is home to the famous Kismet .

But as many have mentioned here, there are many colleges with good degrees in Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence), and Electrical/Mechanical Engineering. It really depends on what part of robotics interests you.

Another interesting career to pursue is animatronics or robots designed for the movies (though these days computer graphics seem to be taking over). But with more and more consumer "robots" popping up in the marketplace, it is likely that there is a good future in whatever types of robotics you get into.

Keep in mind that FIRST robots are just a tip of the iceberg. most other robots rely on a lot more AI than we use in autonmous, but as they say, FIRST is a microcosm of the real engineering world!
Heehee...Kismet

Robotics is an interesting combination of several majors, primarily mechanical engineering and computer science. I personally like a strong dose of mechE with a sprinkle of comp sci, but if you want a more even mix, look for a program that will allow you the flexibility to take courses in both disciplines..."create your own" major.

I'm taking the infamous "2.007" this semester. (For those not familiar with the history behind this, 2.007 used to be 2.70, which was taught by Prof. Woodie Flowers back in the day.) While it promises to be fun and a good learning experience, I can comfortable say that I've learned more about robotics from FIRST than I will from that class. I am always amazed when high school teams come up with things, particularly in the programming department, that they don't teach here until higher-level courses. I guess my point is this: look for a school with good opportunities to pursue what you like outside the classroom as well...often that is where you learn the most.
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