In a world of algorithms, sensors, and circuits, robotics at West Virginia University is creating a new generation of experts to innovate our future. From autonomous systems and AI integration to real-world applications in healthcare, manufacturing, and space exploration, the university’s robotics program equips students and researchers to lead in one of the fastest-evolving technological frontiers.
Robotics at WVU encompasses a new undergraduate program, research, International winning competition teams, outreach and service to the state. We build and utilize the intelligence to interact with the physical world — autonomous car, aerial drones or factory automation. Robotic engineers need to service as robots, design robots, develop new robots, so it is really something that will touch everyday life and continue to do so more as we progress into the near future
You'll focus on machine learning, computer vision, and sensor fusion. You'll work with cutting edge faculty on the development of intelligent, safe, and secure robotic and cyber-physical systems through cutting-edge AI technologies and real-world applications.
Read More : WVU to induct six into Order of VandaliaYou will design, construct, and program robots that work in dynamic, unstructured environments outside factories and research laboratories. Our current projects involve the development of autonomous drones for the inspection of dams and underground mines.
Read More : Three Elected to WVU Foundation Board of DirectorsIn biomimetic and bioinspired robotics, you will use robots to better understand how animal brains and muscles control behavior. In this process, you will find new ways to solve problems in robotics. Many of our current projects involve legged locomotion, distributed control, and computational neuroscience.
Read More : Statler College honorary degree recipient joins graduates for WVU Commencement ceremoniesIn this field, you will focus on autonomous navigation issues to offer better accuracy in the face of challenging conditions. Navigation research explores optimal estimation, multi-sensor fusion, multi-robot coordination, and signal processing—to inform robots of their environment, how to move safely autonomously.
Read More : WVU to induct six into Order of VandaliaThe University Rover Challenge is an international competition organized by The Mars Society. You will be challenged to design the next generation of Mars rovers following in the footsteps of Team Mountaineers who were crowned world champions in 2023.
This student-run organization is dedicated to introducing you to a diverse group of students from all majors and utilize their personal skills to help each other grow in knowledge and community centered around robotics.
The industrial robotics capstone project pairs you with a company to work and solve real world problems using robots and mechatronic devices that they design and implement.
The VEX U Robotics Competition gathers student teams from across the US and Canada to design and build a robot to compete and sharpen their engineering skills. Winning teams will have the opportunity to advance to the VEX Robotics World Championship held every year.
RoboCup@Work is a new competition team where your goal is to target the use of robots in work-related scenarios — where robots cooperate with human workers for complex tasks ranging from manufacturing, automation, and parts handling up to general logistics.
Your objective is to build and program a 1:10 scaled race car, minimize laptime, race head-to-head, and cross the finish line without crashing completely autonomously.
In 7th grade, took a personality test that said I might like aerospace engineering. At the time, I was failing math so I didn’t think this was actually possible. In high school, I did the Pulsar Science Collaboratory summer camp and was told to try for a year and if I didn’t enjoy it I could change my major. After the first year, I knew I wanted to continue engineering at WVU.
Alumna-Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Engineer-Indian Head Navy Base, Indian Head, MDElkins, WV
In my first Research Experiences for Undergraduates Program, I explored how wheeled robots can safely navigate hiking trails using perception and geometric reasoning. This work culminated in a paper that I presented at the 2025 International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems in Hangzhou, China. This experience gave me exposure to both applied robotics research and experimental system design.
Robotics Engineering and Computer Engineering Watertown, MA
I would like to pursue a career in robotics and automation for manufacturing. In addition to those fields, I also have experience with building products, improving process efficiency, and business management. With this background, I think I can combine all my talents and skills to build a successful career and do something that will change the world for the better.
Mechanical Engineering, Robotics Area of Emphasis (AoE), Minor Engineering Leadership Greencastle, PA
I’ve dreamed of either going to the Moon myself one day or, at the very least, designing and building something that makes it there. The dual major provides a versatile, in-demand skill set that opens doors in both aerospace and mechanical fields, while the robotics focus adds even more edge in emerging areas like autonomous systems and space robotics.
Dual Aerospace (AoE in Astro) & Mechanical Engineering (AoE in Robotics) Pittsburgh, PA
Since 2011, WVU and the Statler College have made a name for themselves in robotics competitions.
1st in 2023
University Rover Challenge
World champions
1st in 2016
NASA Sample Return
Robot Challenge
1st in 2019
NASA Mars
Ice Challenge
Let's Go!
Request Info Schedule a Visit Apply NowDepartment of Mechanical, Materials and Aerospace Engineering
1306 Evansdale Drive | PO Box 6106
Morgantown, West Virginia 26506-6106
Email: statler-MAE@mail.wvu.edu
Phone:
304-293-3111 | Fax:
304-293-6689