10 Free Online Robotics Courses You Should Know

With technology and science, it’s hard to ignore the achievements that robotics brings. It has undergone development and continuous improvement to replace many physical functions humans can perform.

Accordingly, it helps people to complete their daily work and tasks well. More and more classes teaching mechanical, programming, and electronic skills on artificial intelligence are born from its great benefits.

Are you also looking for a robotics course but wondering where to start? I will introduce you to the 10 best online courses in this article.

Why Should You Take An Online Robotics Course?

Compared to trying to learn to code on your own, I would recommend learning online courses, as it is an effective solution for you to master skills in this area.

A reputable and trustworthy system will guide you step-by-step through the topics consistently and naturally. That said, you will learn how to code by subjects in the most meaningful and ideal way.

In general, a beginner learning how to code robots should go through the following 3-step process:

  • Find out and take a suitable online course.
  • Read more books on that topic.
  • Practice many times.

Now, look at some popular websites where you can learn to code robots online. They have advantages and disadvantages, so consider carefully to make a choice.

1. Begin Robotics by Future Learn

Begin Robotics

Begin Robotics is a course that offers up-to-date lectures and learning materials. You won’t have to pay anything to learn, but $74 is your base fee to receive a course certificate.

This course teaches topics about robots, their anatomy, and how to control their behavior. In addition, it shows how to define different functions and purposes for using the robot.

This free online course is ideal for beginners and anyone interested in robotics. It doesn’t require an advanced degree or prior knowledge to start.

More info: https://www.futurelearn.com/courses/begin-robotics

2. Robotics Specialization by University of Pennsylvania

Robotics Specialization

Robotics Specialization is a course for those who want to go further in their professional artificial intelligence career.

It’s the top choice for newbies looking for a solid foundation and certifications that can be shared on social networks and LinkedIn profiles.

It took me about seven months to fully complete this course in the free version. I love that it offers flexible study deadlines at its own pace.

Of course, it still teaches many interesting topics about robotics. Featured topics include how the robot senses obstacles and executes complex movements.

More info: https://www.coursera.org/specializations/robotics

3. Modern Robotics: Mechanics, Planning, Control Specialization

Modern Robotics

Coursera is one of the leading reputable, and trusted online platforms. They regularly collaborate with potential universities and trade organizations.

With Modern Robotics: Mechanics, Planning, and Control Specialization, you will have the opportunity to either start or go further in your career.

All that is in this course is the robotics movement foundation, kinematics and dynamics, planning, and basic robotic maneuvers. Finally, you will be working on an actual project that involves controlling a robot to complete a task.

More info: https://www.coursera.org/specializations/modernrobotics

4. Introduction to Robotics Masterclass

Introduction to Robotics Masterclass

If you want to understand robotics technology and applications, this Introduction to Robotics Masterclass is for you.

It is also a product to connect students with the free practical robotics lessons of the QUT Robotics academy. To date, the site has more than 200 free lessons; some come with sample quizzes to test your knowledge effectively.

It only takes about 1 hour to complete, and you will have the foundation to understand how the robot works and its value.

More info: https://robotacademy.net.au/masterclass/introduction-to-robotics/

5. Robotics by Columbia University

Robotics by Columbia University

I recommend the course for those looking to learn core robotics techniques in real-world tasks.

As offered by Columbia University, this online course is not only completely free but also comes with a certificate option at an affordable price. You can easily share this certification with your resume or LinkedIn profile.

It is a student-level course including advanced learners or novices in robotics.

Here you learn about 2D and 3D space, kinematics, programming, and robotics applications. It covers basic robotics knowledge, including mind and body.

More info: https://www.edx.org/course/robotics-2

6. Introduction to Robotics by Stanford University

Introduction to Robotics

Stanford, the prestigious US university for comprehensive robotics knowledge, provides an introduction to Robotics. This curriculum includes a system of lessons in robotics design, modeling, motion planning, control, and operation.

This course is only for some because you need a GPA of 3.96 or higher and an impressive application. I like its midterm and final exams, which will help students remember their knowledge better and know their actual level.

More info: https://see.stanford.edu/course/cs223a

7. Robotic Automation by LinkedIn Learning

UiPath: Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

If you love robotics and want to take a course but need more time, Robotic Automation is a reliable choice. It only took me about an hour and a half to complete as a free member.

Along the way, I learned about robotic automation, the basics, and determining when to apply best. Also, this course introduces global companies that are currently using robotic process automation. The faculty also provide clear prospects in the field.

More info: https://www.linkedin.com/learning/uipath-robotic-process-automation-rpa

8. Mechanisms and Motion – Robotics Focus

Mechanisms and Motion

Many students choose Mechanisms and Motion – Robotics Focus for building a foundation for 3D design and robot operation. This course is a solid foundation for approaching more advanced and complex robotic topics.

In particular, accessing the lecture libraries is free to get more application exercises. Even the teachers will enthusiastically support you with questions.

I recommend taking this course only if you are a beginner. It requires you to have prerequisites such as mechanical engineering and robotics knowledge.

More info: https://www.udemy.com/course/mechanisms/

9. Learn Robot Operating System

Learn Robot Operating System

This course is the ideal course for anyone who works as a robotics developer. It is also a valuable key for learning and familiarizing yourself with the robotics industry in its final stages of development.

This course provides information and a comprehensive overview of professional robotics programming. It also includes many hands-on projects, allowing you to program your own ROS buttons and creations.

It is the fastest way to enter the world of robotics programming. In short, it is a good choice if you want a perfect start and are looking for a short course.

More info: https://www.skillshare.com/en/browse/technology

10. Introduction to Robotics by MIT OpenCourseWare

Introduction to Robotics

Introduction to Robotics is a free online course. Its owners are faculty members at MIT OpenCourseware, one of the most prestigious technology universities.

With this course, you will get the most accurate understanding of the key concepts for robotics development. These include mechanics, dynamics, and intelligent control system setups. In addition, this course teaches skills in motion planning, user interface, 3D simulation, and embedded software.

I appreciate its hands-on robotics project, which includes manufacturing the robot and performing navigation and disaster operations. You will have a challenging and fantastic experience taking this in-depth robotics course.

More info: https://ocw.mit.edu/courses/2-12-introduction-to-robotics-fall-2005/

Conclusion

Technology and ideas related to robotics are incredibly mysterious and exciting.

Participating in and pursuing an online robotics course will be rewarding. They help you explore your knowledge and background.

Thank you for reading!