The Utah Bionic Leg, developed by Associate Professor Tommaso Lenzi, named to TIME’s list of best inventions of 2023

Beginning this fall, new graduate and undergraduate programs are available at the University of Utah in Robotics. The graduate programs include both MS and PhD degrees, along with a Graduate Certificate that can be completed as a non-matriculated or degree seeking student. Undergraduate students will be able to pursue a Robotics Minor or a Robotics Certificate.

These new programs will be focused on the interdisciplinary development of hardware, software, and algorithms to service the needs of companies developing the next generation of intelligent machines. The new programs have been made possible in part due to funding from the Utah System of Higher Education as part of the Emerging Technology Initiative, with support from campus (Kahlert School of Computing, Department of Mechanical Engineering, and Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering) and core industry collaborators (Sarcos Robotics, Kairos Autonomi, Motion Control, and Cricut). These groups are working together to develop curriculum and build a world class program.

Assistant Professor Jacob A. George was named Innovator of the Year for his work with the “LUKE Arm”, a neuroprosthesis controlled by thought and endowed with a sense of touch.

“The new Robotics programs at the U are a big step in keeping the University of Utah at the leading edge of Robotics education, fueling our growing local Robotics industry, and inspiring the next generation of Roboticists,” said Steve Mascaro, Director of Robotics Studies. “Our faculty and students are incredibly excited that this moment has finally arrived.”

Artificial Intelligence-based multi-object manipulation from the LL4MA lab directed by Associate Professor Tucker Hermans

With the first robotics certificates and grad degree programs in the intermountain west, U Robotics will continue efforts to attract top talent to Utah and provide employers with a stream of talented Roboticists to support their emerging industries. Additionally, it builds on existing STEM efforts led by the Robotics faculty to support the Utah FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition aimed at attracting high school students into STEM careers. The competition brings in over 1500 students from across the country and world every year. The new Robotics programs at the U will further catalyze the U’s growth in engineering and computer science degrees to support Utah’s technology sector.

Students interested in the new Robotics programs can find more information on the Robotics website.