Q&A: Robotics Engineering – Autonomous Vehicles (GC)

Frequently Asked Questions

PROGRAM

Q. When will the program start?

A. The anticipated start date of the cohort will be Fall 2022 the week of August 25, 2022

Q. What are the admissions requirements for the program?

A. Applicants must have a bachelors degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science,  Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics Engineering, or a related field from an accredited University. You must also have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

In addition, students should be able to demonstrate strong skills and a modest amount of course work (2-3 courses) in each of the following areas:

  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Electrical & Computer Engineering
  • Computer Science

Students with backgrounds in other engineering or science disciplines will be considered based on their demonstrated skills in engineering and computer science.

This program assumes familiarity with an object-oriented programming language (OOP), such as C/C++, Java, Perl, and/or Python. As well as experience with MATLAB. A working knowledge of Calculus, Differential Equations, and Linear Algebra are also required. GMAT/GRE’s are not required for this program.

*LMC has a self-paced Python course that you can take as a refresher.

Q. What does online learning in asynchronous format entail?

A. Our online learning platform is called Canvas. Our courses integrate the latest technologies in web, videoconferencing, digital recordings, simulations, virtual chat, and discussion boards to provide a rich, immersive learning experience. Courses are structured so that students can go online or view recordings as their schedule allows. Asynchronous means students can access class content on their own time.

ADMISSIONS

Q. If my background does not meet the program requirements, can I still participate and get accepted into the program?

A. There are ways to build your case to admissions. We would like to discuss your transcripts in detail to determine what options are available for those students who do not meet the program requirements. WPI take a holistic approach to the application review. Students that lack, or feel that they should refresh their programming skills, will be given referrals to a refresher online course.

Contact Leslie Rodriguez, Assistant Director of Enrollment, to discuss. Please schedule a call here.

Our team strongly recommends applying for admission as soon as possible to obtain an admissions decision before starting the course.

Q. What is the enrollment process?

A. The WPI enrollment form is a brief form that indicates that you wish to take the next step. Upon completion of the form, Danielle Dodakian, Student Enrollment Specialist, will reach out to schedule a time to go over your background and the application process. You will then be added to the enrollment list.

Q. What is needed for the application process?

Materials needed:

A. Unofficial Transcript – Required

All Transcripts from all previously-attended Colleges/Universities should be uploaded.

B. Statement of Purpose – Required

A document with guidance will be provided to you.

You will need to write a strong statement of purpose as to why you want to participate in this program and highlight any career achievements and practical work experience in the field.

C. Up to 3 letters of Recommendation – Recommended if you do not meet all requirements.

Your authors will receive an auto-generated link as you work through the application process. They must submit their letters through this link, so the letters properly attach to your application.

We recommend that you ask people who have managed or supervised you.

D. Resume – Recommended if you do not meet all requirements.

Q. If I have taken courses at another school, can those credits be transferred to the program?

A. A student may petition to use graduate courses completed at other accredited, degree-granting institutions to satisfy WPI graduate degree requirements. A maximum of one-third of the credit requirements for a graduate degree may be satisfied by courses taken elsewhere and not used to satisfy degree requirements at other institutions. Each credit transfer request is reviewed by the respective academic department at WPI to verify academic standards, relevance of the course content, and adherence to all transfer guidelines stated in the WPI Graduate Catalog. The transfer credit process can be initiated after a student receives his/her admissions decision.

Q. How do I know when I can register for a course?

A. You will receive a confirmation email from Corporate and Professional Education.

TUITION & FEES

Q. What are the fees associated with enrolling or registering?

A. The graduate application fee ($70) is waived by our office for all LMC employees applying for this program.

If you would like to obtain a student ID (not required), there is a $15.00 charge (ID’s are useful for student discounts).

There are no additional fees associated with the program above and beyond tuition and course materials (books/software/etc.).

Q. What is the tuition?

A. WPI’s tuition for the academic year 2022/2023 is $4,830 per course. All LMC students will receive a 10% discount. Tuition for next academic year has not been determined.

Q. What is the tuition reimbursement at LMC?

A. This program is eligible for Tuition Assistance.

Q. What is the payment process?

A. Tuition payment is due prior to the first day of class for each course. Payment instructions are included within the WPI Course Confirmation email which is sent to each student approximately two weeks before the start of the course.

Graduate students may enroll in a monthly payment plan called Nelnet. A $55 application fee allows you to pay your bill over a 4-month period; each payment is due the 1st of each month.

For more information please visit WPI Bursar’s Office