Explore the best UK universities for Robotics in 2026. Find courses that combine engineering, AI, and cutting-edge tech for the future.
Best Universities for Robotics: Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of Edinburgh | 92 | 85 |
| 2 Silver | Imperial College London | 94 | 80 |
| 3 Bronze | University of Manchester | 90 | 82 |
| 4 | University of Bristol | 88 | 80 |
| 5 | University of Sheffield | 87 | 78 |
| 6 | University of Southampton | 86 | 79 |
| 7 | University of Glasgow | 85 | 81 |
| 8 | University of Leeds | 84 | 77 |
| 9 | University of Nottingham | 83 | 75 |
| 10 | Lancaster University | 82 | 74 |
1. University of Edinburgh Gold
2. Imperial College London Silver
3. University of Manchester Bronze
4. University of Bristol
5. University of Sheffield
6. University of Southampton
7. University of Glasgow
8. University of Leeds
9. University of Nottingham
10. Lancaster University
How We Ranked These Universities
Our Robotics rankings combine trusted academic data with student lifestyle factors to reflect what really matters to students.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Cost of living, nightlife, cost of a pint and Uber, crime rate, student satisfaction
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher’s student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Top-Ranked Robotics Universities Explained
University of Sheffield
Known for advanced robotics research and strong industry partnerships.University of Edinburgh
Offers a blend of AI, machine learning, and robotics with excellent teaching quality.University of Manchester
Combines practical experience with innovative research in automation and control.University of Glasgow
Strong focus on mechatronics and intelligent systems, with high student satisfaction.University of Bristol
Great reputation for engineering and technology innovation, with vibrant campus life.Career Prospects After a Robotics Degree
Graduates often pursue roles in automation, AI development, manufacturing, and research. Related subjects include Computer Science and Mechanical Engineering.
Robotics Course Requirements & Entry Standards
Typical entry requires strong maths and physics skills, with UCAS points around 128–160 depending on the university.
Cheapest Cities to Study Robotics in the UK
Sheffield, Glasgow, and Manchester offer excellent value for students balancing cost and quality.
Best Robotics Unis for Nightlife & Social Life
Manchester and Sheffield have vibrant student scenes and active tech societies.
Student Wellbeing, Mental Health & Study Support
Universities like Edinburgh and Bristol provide comprehensive support services for student wellbeing and academic success.
Not Sure About Robotics? Consider These Alternatives
Try Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or Mechanical Engineering.
Summary: Which Robotics Uni is Right for You?
Focus on research strengths, industry links, cost of living, and student community to find your ideal robotics course.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Robotics
Leading UK universities for Robotics include the University of Edinburgh, Imperial College London, and the University of Bristol, known for strong research and industry links.
The University of Edinburgh often ranks highest for Robotics, with cutting-edge labs and high student satisfaction in engineering disciplines.
A Robotics degree offers strong career opportunities in automation, AI, manufacturing, and research, with growing demand across the UK and globally.
Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science are commonly required. Specific requirements vary, so always check the university’s course pages.
Robotics graduates work as automation engineers, AI specialists, robotics software developers, research scientists, and in manufacturing design.
Yes, demand is growing rapidly as industries invest in automation, AI, and advanced manufacturing technologies.
Starting salaries typically range from £25,000 to £35,000, with experienced engineers earning significantly more in industry and research roles.
Mastering the integration of hardware, software, and AI concepts can be challenging but is crucial for success in Robotics.
Graduates typically work in technology firms, automotive industries, research labs, and companies focused on AI and automation.
Absolutely, Robotics is highly regarded for its innovation, interdisciplinary skills, and impact on future technology.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked
