Computing Across Disciplines is a three-part series on cross-campus programs combining computer science with other fields of study at UT Austin. In this second installment, we’re highlighting a program designed for students interested in robotics. It’s part of a growing number of options that support interdisciplinary education and reflect how today’s students want to study CS in context.
Texas Robotics
Texas Robotics launched a new Robotics Honors Undergraduate Program in collaboration with Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Computational Engineering, Electrical & Computer Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering, set to start in the fall of 2025.
The program automatically earns students a spot in the highly competitive Robotics minor and into the Freshman Research Initiative’s robotics stream. Students also get the opportunity to join a living and learning community with their program cohort.
"The program offers a unique opportunity to begin studying robotics during the undergraduate degree,” said assistant professor of practice Justin Hart. “Most students really have to wait until graduate education to specialize in robotics.”
The new undergraduate program provides students with hands-on experience, access to state-of-the-art facilities, participation in Texas Robotics events, and a close-knit community.
“They learn the theory and then put it to work through simulations and on real robots,” said assistant professor Roberto Martin-Martin. “That hands-on experience helps connect the concepts. There are also opportunities to test their own ideas, and some tracks even guide them through what it’s like to do robotics research.”
This honors program is what is believed to be the first of its kind, allowing high school students to apply directly as part of their freshman admissions application. To apply, students need to major in Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Computational Engineering, Electrical & Computer Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering.
“The program gets students involved in robotics research from day one,” said senior academic program coordinator Carmen Cruz. “It’s a very unique and special way to bring in more talent and give students hands-on experience early in their academic careers.”
Missed the first article? Explore how students can combine computer science with liberal arts and natural sciences through the X+CS Integrated Degree Program.