Robotics Engineering: Courses and Scope (2026–27)

Robots often bring to mind images of human-like machines from science fiction; walking, talking, and thinking like people. But the reality is far more interesting. Most robots today do not look like humans at all. Some quietly assemble cars in factories, others assist surgeons in operating rooms, harvest crops in fields, move packages through warehouses, or clean our homes while we sleep.
As industries increasingly rely on automation and intelligent systems, robots play an important role in shaping how work gets done. In many ways, we already live in a robotic world.

But what exactly counts as a robot?

Broadly, a robot is defined as a machine or mechanism that can perceive its physical environment, make decisions, and perform actions accordingly. While an automatic washing machine might meet this description, the word “robot” usually brings to mind machines with more complex sensing, decision-making, and physical action. A self-driving car is clearly a robot. So is a lunar lander, or an industrial robot arm.

Discover how the ARK Robotics lab at Plaksha University is developing the next generation of robotics technologies such as robot foundation models, underwater vehicles and multi-functional drones.

In 2026, Robotics engineering is a core part of the modern engineering ecosystem, driven by automation, artificial intelligence, and Industry 4.0 adoption. The applications and use cases for Robotics and autonomous systems are proliferating across sectors, including consumer electronics, life sciences, automotive and more. In India, annual industrial robot installation has climbed steadily, and the country is now among the top 10 markets globally for robot installations

Robotics engineering is at the cross-section of electrical, mechanical, and computer engineering, making it an interdisciplinary field of study.

This guide explains the complete pathway from engineering courses after 12th to BTech eligibility, subjects, admission process, and long-term career scope in robotics engineering in India.

What is Robotics Engineering?

Robotics engineering is an interdisciplinary branch of engineering that focuses on designing, building, programming, and controlling robots and automated systems. It combines mechanical engineering, electronics, computer science, artificial intelligence, sensors, and control systems.

In simple terms, robotics engineering teaches students how machines can sense their environment, make decisions, and perform tasks with limited or no human involvement. These systems are used in manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, defence, agriculture, space technology, and smart factories.

BTech in Robotics Engineering

BTech in Robotics Engineering is a four-year undergraduate engineering program, usually open to students who complete Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Admission is generally based on entrance exams like JEE Main or state-level engineering tests

The program covers subjects such as engineering mathematics, programming, mechanics, electronics, control systems, sensors, embedded systems, machine learning, and automation. Courses include labs and robotic construction projects, and students generally complete at least one internship involving a robotics related company or academic laboratory.

BTech in Robotics & Autonomous Systems (RAS) at Plaksha University brings together computing, mechatronics, and artificial intelligence.

For a deeper perspective on robotics education, read Prof Andy Ruina’s interview with The Hindu.

Robotics Engineering Scope in India

Robotics engineering in India is entering a high growth phase. According to the World Robotics 2025 report by the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), India is now the tenth-largest market globally for robot installations, with approximately 52,000 units in operation. In 2024, the country installed a record 9,120 units, marking a 7% year-on-year increase, and making India the sixth-largest robotics market for annual installations that year.

This surge is being led primarily by the automotive sector, which alone accounts for 45% of total installations. However, other industries such as plastics, chemicals, and metals are growing at 30–33%, reflecting skyrocketing demand across manufacturing for industrial robots.
But robotics is no longer just limited to factories. It is now widely used across multiple industries, each creating its own set of opportunities.

• EV manufacturing: Robots are enabling the shift toward smarter, more connected cars. From battery manufacturing and precision assembly to supporting autonomous and software-defined vehicle systems, this sector continues to be the largest driver of robotics adoption in India.
• Electronics and Semiconductors: Robotics plays a critical role in high-precision manufacturing, where even the smallest errors can lead to defects. Robots are used for chip fabrication, circuit assembly, and quality inspection, creating demand for engineers who can work with embedded systems and hardware.
• Logistics: For warehouse automation, robots are increasingly used to sort, pick, and move goods efficiently. With the rapid growth of e-commerce, this has become one of the fastest-scaling real-world applications of robotics in India.
• Healthcare: Robots are being used in surgical systems, rehabilitation devices, and advanced medical technologies. While still developing, this space offers high-impact roles at the intersection of robotics, AI, and medicine.
• Defence and Aerospace: Robotics is powering autonomous drones, surveillance systems, and advanced engineering applications. These roles are fewer but highly specialized, often involving cutting-edge technologies.
• Agriculture: Farms are increasingly using robots and autonomous systems for crop monitoring, precision farming, and automating repetitive tasks. As the sector modernizes, this represents a high-potential area for future growth.

Together, these applications show that robotics engineering is no longer tied to a single industry. Instead, it sits at the center of how technology is transforming the physical world, creating diverse and expanding career opportunities for engineers in India.

Recognizing the growing importance of an interdisciplinary education, BTech engineering programs in India follow a standardized duration framework under AICTE guidelines. Robotics engineering in India is structured within this 4-year undergraduate system, where students are trained in mechanical systems, electronics, programming, and control systems.

Career Path for Robotics Engineering 

After 12th, students typically enter robotics engineering through a step-by-step academic and career pipeline.

Career Path Steps in Robotics Engineering (India)

Step 1: Complete 12th with PM stream

• Physics and Mathematics required for eligibility
• Minimum marks criteria typically 45%–50% in most institutes and higher in top universities.

Step 2: Apply for College

• JEE Main (national-level exam)
• State-level engineering entrance exams (varies by state)
• Private university entrance tests (for direct admission options)

Step 3: Participate in Admission Counseling after JEE

• Register for JoSAA counseling and fill in college preferences
• Apply through state-level counseling processes where applicable
• Seat allotment is based on entrance rank and preferences selected

Step 4: Secure admission into BTech program

• Robotics Engineering / Mechatronics / Automation Engineering
• Choice depends on rank, college availability, and specialization interest

Step 5: Once in a BTech program, study core engineering subjects

• Mathematics, Mechanical systems, electronics, programming,
• Robotics-specific modules typically come in later semesters

Step 6: Gain practical exposure

• Internships in automation and robotics companies
• Projects that use the core skills

Step 7: Enter job market or higher studies

• Job roles: robotics engineer, automation engineer, AI systems developer, programmer, manufacturing, etc.
• Higher studies: M.Tech, MS, PhD or research in robotics/AI domains

Courses for Robotics Engineering

Students who want to become robotics engineers can choose from several BTech programs after Class 12. Since robotics combines many subjects, different engineering branches can lead to careers in this field.

Engineering Courses After 12th Relevant to Robotics

• BTech in Mechatronics Engineering
  • Covers how mechanical, electronic, and computer systems work together to build smart machines.
• BTech in Automation and Robotics Engineering
  • Covers the design, programming, and use of robots and automated machines.
    
• BTech in Mechanical Engineering
  • Covers the design, manufacturing, and working of machines and mechanical systems.
• BTech in Electrical Engineering / Electronics and Communication
  
  • Covers electrical systems, circuits, electronics, signals, and communication devices.
    

Robotics Engineering Subjects

Robotics engineering follows a structured progression.

You move from understanding systems → building them → making them intelligent → applying them in the real world. While course progression and structure can vary depending on the institution, students will likely see the following subjects on a university’s curriculum.

Years 1 & 2: Engineering Foundations

• Mathematics: calculus, linear algebra, differential equations
• Physics: mechanics, Electronics and circuits
• Programming: C, C++, Python
• Basic mechatronics 
• Digital electronics and microprocessors
• Introduction to Sensors and actuators
• Controls
• Robot kinematics and dynamics
• Embedded systems
• Introduction to AI

Years 3 & 4: Intelligence and Integration

• Machine learning
• Computer vision
• Robot Operating System (ROS)
• Autonomous systems
• IoT and connected devices
• AI

Year 4: Specialisation and Application

• Advanced AI in robotics
• Autonomous vehicles
• Medical robotics
• Drones and UAVs
• Capstone project
• Industry internship

Tools and Software Used in Robotics Engineering

Across your program, you’ll gain hands-on experience with key robotics tools and software.

How Much Do Robotics Engineers Earn In India?

Robotics engineering salaries in India vary heavily based on a number of factors - institute, skills, industry domain, and the type of engineering roles. However, graduates can expect above average earnings if they secure the right entry-level roles.

Plaksha University, Punjab: Reimagining the BTech Experience

As robotics becomes more interdisciplinary, students benefit from a program that gives them room to explore before they specialize. Plaksha University’s BTech program is designed around this idea, with a flexible foundation across areas such as robotics, AI, data science, and engineering systems.

Through hands-on projects, industry exposure, and cutting-edge facilities, students can explore their interests before choosing a major, while building the practical skills needed for fields like robotics and advanced engineering