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

How to use this table:
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

Academic: 92
Social: 85

2. Imperial College London Silver

Academic: 94
Social: 80

3. University of Manchester Bronze

Academic: 90
Social: 82

4. University of Bristol

Academic: 88
Social: 80

5. University of Sheffield

Academic: 87
Social: 78

6. University of Southampton

Academic: 86
Social: 79

7. University of Glasgow

Academic: 85
Social: 81

8. University of Leeds

Academic: 84
Social: 77

9. University of Nottingham

Academic: 83
Social: 75

10. Lancaster University

Academic: 82
Social: 74

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.
✅ Verified by Unifresher Editorial Team | Last updated:

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.

Aminah Barnes
Aminah Barnes – Manchester Metropolitan University
Topic expertise: University & Degree choice, Applications, Travel and Student life

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

Unifresher Team

Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.

Student Panel

Student Writers

Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.

Expert Panel

Expert Panel

We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.

How are the Unifresher Awards judged?+

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
By students, for students.
See full methodology →

Author

  • Connor is a seasoned content expert at Unifresher, specialising in publishing engaging and insightful student-focused content. With over four years of experience in data analysis and content strategy, Connor has a proven track record of supporting publishing teams with high-quality resources. A graduate of the University of Sussex with a BSc in Accounting and Finance, he combines his academic background with his passion for creating content that resonates with students across the UK. Outside of work, Connor enjoys staying active at his local gym and walking his miniature dachshunds.

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