Robotics & Human-Centered Design
The CCS BFA in Robotics & Human-Centered Design is a groundbreaking degree program at the intersection of technology, artificial intelligence, and user experience. As intelligent machines enter our everyday lives, we train creative problem-solvers to design robotic systems built specifically for human environments and real-world needs.
Ethan Norenbrock 
STEM-Designated
Program
As robots migrate from factories into hospitals, schools, and homes, global tech industries need more than engineers, they need designers. In this program, you will define how they look, behave, communicate, and build trust with the humans around them.
Human-Robot Interaction
Robotics & Human-Centered Design is a STEM designated industrial design program that is grounded in Human-Robot Interaction (HRI). It focuses on behavioral communication and research on strategies to advance the social acceptance of autonomous systems.
Industrial Design Roots
The program prepares students with the creative and technical skills needed for a successful career as an industrial/product designer, while focusing specifically on the future of robotics and human-centered design.
A Growing Industry
Students in this program will be trailblazers, embarking on one of the newest segments of the industrial design industry, projected to grow 22.2%, quadrupling from a $2 billion industry in 2024 to a $6.4 billion industry by 2030.
Using design thinking, movement, light, sound, interaction and materials, paired with ethics and best practices, students will rethink what a traditional robotics machine “feels and looks like. “ You will graduate with a professional design portfolio, real-world prototyping experience, and the skills needed to launch careers in healthcare tech, consumer products, interactive environments, and smart mobility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Students who are naturally curious, who like solving problems and puzzles, and who are analytical and creative would thrive in this program.
No. A portfolio is not required for application. See our admissions requirements for more information.
Students will be prepared to pursue a career in the industrial design field, with a focus on robotics. Titles like Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) Designer, UX Researcher for Robotics and industrial designer will be just some of the options for a graduate of this program.
Robotic design, product design and industrial design all focus on human-centered design. Robotics design focuses on human-robot interaction, behavior and systems while industrial design and product design focus on product functionality, ergonomics and aesthetics.
CCS has a long history of designing for the future. As one of the first institutions to recognize Auto Design as an art form, the College has stayed ahead of the curve and continues to blaze new paths. As a top institution for Product Design, Industrial Design and Transportation Design, CCS has the foundation to offer this groundbreaking new program.
Your Future, In Motion
With our extensive industry connections spanning over a century, we ensure that the active learning our students engage in aligns with industry needs, preparing them for careers.
Cutting-Edge Spaces for Creative Minds
Enjoy unlimited access to industry-standard facilities that prepare you for real-world production.
Even though this is a new major at CCS, our alumni are already working in this industry, designing robots and focusing on human-centered interaction.
*Note: This information was gathered using Lightcast Labor Market Analytics and includes the median salary for the lifetime of a career in these specific professions. CCS alumni outcomes may vary.
Possible Career Choices
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