GXO Developing Robotics Talent
MK:U and GXO have partnered to develop the next generation of robotics and automation specialists through the UK’s first degree-level Robotics Engineering Apprenticeship.
Robotics Engineer
Designed to meet the growing demand for skilled robotics engineers, this course equips learners to thrive in the Industry 4.0 era. With applications across logistics, automotive, and government sectors, students at MK:U gain hands-on experience and industry-relevant skills to lead innovation
Level 6 Integrated Degree
BEng in Robotics Engineering
34 months + 6 months assessment
Entry Requirements - 96 UCAS points or relevant experience + aptitude for maths
Fully Funded - £27,000 from the levy
Benefits for Business
- Future-ready talent Gain access to highly skilled apprentices trained in the latest robotics and automation technologies.
- Innovation and efficiency Enhance operational performance by integrating robotics.
- Be a pioneer in the UK’s robotics future Partner with England’s first degree-level Robotics Engineering Apprenticeship to position your business at the forefront of industry innovation.
Who is it For?
- Entry-level robotics enthusiasts Dive into robotics regardless of experience level.
- End-users of robots Companies in logistics, defence and healthcare sectors can benefit from our course tailored to robotics. Gain skills essential for implementing robots effectively.
- Career changers Whether you’re from engineering, IT or another field, explore new opportunities in robotics.
Course Delivery
In-person blocks (2-3 days) with tutors
Half-day live online sessions with tutors
Self-paced guided study
1-2 hrs of other activity weekly
Approx. 6 hours per week (9:30-17:00)
Developmental coaching
Off-site visits
Workplace application through work based projects
Course Curriculum
Year One
Month 1-3
Hello Robotics
Introduction to Robotics, MK:U and fellow apprentices. Exploring the history of robotics, the diverse range of robots in today’s world, and the latest advancements in robotics technology and their impact on various industries.
Month 3-4
Robot Control
The fundamental principles behind controlling robots, including control systems. The module also includes an introduction to controlling robots with Python, and a basic introduction to ROS.
Month 4-6
Mechanics and Kinematics
Introduction to mechanical engineering concepts, including dynamics, materials engineering and kinematics.
Month 6
Professional Practice
Develops career and personal skills, including emotional intelligence, creative thinking, personal branding, corporate social responsibility, and digital literacy.
Month 7-8
Circuits and Signals
Fundamentals in electrical engineering, including how to design and build circuits. Introduction to signals processing and analysis.
Month 10-12
Business Systems
Overview of the fundamental engineering skills related to business, including understanding organisational structures, budgeting, project management and risk assessments.
Year Two
Month 13-16
C++ Programming
Exploring object-orientated programming to broaden skills in programming robots in other languages.
Month 16-18
AI and Machine Learning
Learning essential skills in applying AI to robotics, from core principles to hands-on machine learning and advanced techniques like Reinforcement Learning.
Month 18
Professional Practice
Develops leadership and professional skills, including negotiation, building high-performance teams, influencing others, and managing risk.
Month 18-21
Ethics and Human Factors
Exploring ethical and social aspects of robot design, focusing on human interaction and responsible, socially conscious development.
Month 21-22
Mechatronics
Combining skills in mechanics, electronics, and programming to build working robots, with an introduction to CAD and 3D printing.
Month 22-24
Robot-system integration
Learning to integrate robotic systems into various environments, with an introduction to networking fundamentals and relevant protocols.
Year Three
Month 24-27
Systems Engineering
Learning systems thinking and applying systems engineering to robotics, focusing on problem-driven solutions for the modern workplace.
Month 27-29
Machine Sensing and Vision
Exploring how robots gather and process information from their surroundings. Learning about robot sensing techniques, including vision-based methods.
Month 29-31
Autonomous Systems
Appling AI and sensing to build autonomous systems with skills in navigation, manipulation, and decision-making.
Month 31-34
Research project: “Robots in Action”
Questions are provided by industry, tackling cutting-edge robot-related challenges, designed to showcase three years of skills development. This will be a group-based project where students will be required to investigate a particular specialist area and write a report outlining findings and solutions.
Month 34-40
Apprenticeship Assessment
A substantial work-based project addressing a genuine robotics engineering challenge, supported by a report and presentation with questioning. A professional discussion supported by a portfolio of evidence, assessing the apprentice’s ability to demonstrate the required knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs).
Designed with industry
Courses built in collaboration with employers.
Applied learning
Real projects, real impact.
Work-integrated
Designed around hands-on experience.
Future-focused
Digital and technology driven programmes.
Cranfield expertise
Part of world-leading University.
City of innovation
Located in one of UK's most forward-thinking cities.
Build Talent. Drive Growth. Future-Proof Your Workforce.
Partner with MK:U, part of Cranfield University, to develop skilled employees through high-quality apprenticeships.
