What are the best robotics courses on Coursera?

Top courses include the Modern Robotics Specialization from Northwestern University , which covers mechanics, planning and control. Other options include Fundamentals of Robotics & Industrial Automation from L&T EduTech and Introduction to Robotics with Webots from the University of Colorado Boulder .

Can I learn robotics for free on Coursera?

Yes. Many robotics courses offer a free audit option, allowing learners to access video lessons and reading materials at no cost. To complete assignments or earn a certificate, you’ll need to upgrade or apply for financial aid.

What will I learn in a robotics course?

You’ll learn about mechanical systems, sensors and actuators, kinematics, control systems, and programming for robots. Some courses also explore applications in fields like manufacturing , healthcare , and autonomous vehicles.

Do I need engineering or coding experience to start learning robotics?

Not necessarily. While some background in math , physics , or programming can be helpful, many introductory courses on Coursera start with the basics. Advanced courses and specializations build on foundational knowledge in engineering or computer science .

Can Coursera’s robotics courses help me build a career in the field?

Yes. Robotics is an interdisciplinary field with growing demand in industries like manufacturing , automation , research , and healthcare . Coursera courses can help you develop job-ready skills, build a portfolio of projects, and earn certificates that show your knowledge and readiness for roles in robotics engineering, mechatronics, or automation.

Best Robotics Courses & Certificates Online [2025]

Find the Best Robotics Course for Your Goals

Status: Free Trial
Northwestern University
Modern Robotics: Mechanics, Planning, and Control
Skills you'll gain: Machine Controls, Control Systems, Mathematical Modeling, Mathematical Software, Automation Engineering, Simulation and Simulation Software, Engineering Calculations, Engineering, Mechanics, Mechanical Engineering, Torque (Physics), Artificial Intelligence, Vibrations, Applied Mathematics, Engineering Analysis, Automation, Numerical Analysis, Computational Logic, Virtual Environment, Robotic Process Automation
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
1.2K reviews
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Free Trial
Northwestern University
Modern Robotics, Course 1: Foundations of Robot Motion
Skills you'll gain: Engineering, Mechanics, Mathematical Modeling, Torque (Physics), Simulation and Simulation Software, Matlab, Angular
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
999 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
University of Leeds
How to Get Into Robotics
Skills you'll gain: Automation, Robotic Process Automation, Artificial Intelligence, Engineering, Healthcare Ethics, Surgery, Technology Roadmaps, Emerging Technologies, Medical Equipment and Technology
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
47 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Introduction to Robotics with Webots
Skills you'll gain: Robotic Process Automation, Data Mapping, Artificial Intelligence, Control Systems, Automation, Graph Theory, Planning, Algorithms, Real-Time Operating Systems, Computer Programming, Mechanics, Computer Vision, Computer Science, Simulation and Simulation Software, Global Positioning Systems, Engineering, Simulations, Image Analysis, Linear Algebra, Design
Build toward a degree
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
56 reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Free
Amazon Web Services
Introduction to Robotics on AWS
Skills you'll gain: Amazon Web Services, Cloud-Based Integration, Cloud Engineering, Cloud Solutions, Automation, Cloud Applications
4.3
Rating, 4.3 out of 5 stars
84 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
L&T EduTech
Fundamentals of Robotics & Industrial Automation
Skills you'll gain: Automation Engineering, Programmable Logic Controllers, Control Systems, Automation, Simulation and Simulation Software, Robotic Process Automation, Electrical Systems, Human Machine Interfaces, Manufacturing and Production, Industrial Engineering, Electronics, Mechanical Engineering, Internet Of Things, Matlab, Process Control
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
66 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

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Status: Free Trial
L&T EduTech
Collaborative Robotics in Industry
Skills you'll gain: Automation Engineering, Programmable Logic Controllers, Electrical Systems, Hydraulics, Control Systems, Automation, Simulation and Simulation Software, Internet Of Things, Robotic Process Automation, Mechanical Engineering, Real Time Data, Human Machine Interfaces, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing and Production, Electronics, Hardware Troubleshooting, Image Analysis, Matlab, Equipment Design, Computer Vision
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
101 reviews
Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
L&T EduTech
Robotics Engineering & Applications
Skills you'll gain: Automation Engineering, Internet Of Things, Control Systems, Robotic Process Automation, Automation, Image Analysis, Computer Vision, Equipment Design, Engineering, Program Development, Mechanical Design, Manufacturing Processes, Mechanical Engineering, Electronics
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
25 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Coursera Instructor Network
Lean Manufacturing & Robotics for Flexible Systems
Skills you'll gain: Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement Process, Industrial Engineering, Operational Efficiency, Quality Improvement, Emerging Technologies, Manufacturing Processes, Automation, Change Management, Cross-Functional Collaboration
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
21 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Northwestern University
Modern Robotics, Course 2: Robot Kinematics
Skills you'll gain: Mathematical Modeling, Machine Controls, Automation Engineering, Engineering Calculations, Applied Mathematics, Engineering Analysis, Mechanics, Computational Logic, Simulation and Simulation Software, Virtual Environment, Torque (Physics), Numerical Analysis, Trigonometry, Control Systems
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
296 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
IBM
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Skills you'll gain: Generative AI, ChatGPT, Natural Language Processing, Market Opportunities
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
20K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México
Robótica
Skills you'll gain: Computer Programming, Computer Science, Electronics, Mobile Development, Mechanics, Electronic Components, Automation, Control Systems, Remote Access Systems
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
1.5K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months