USU Launches New Robotics Degree in Partnership with Tech Colleges

A new degree opportunity at Utah State University is making it easier for students at some state technical colleges to turn hands-on training in robotics and control systems into a bachelor's degree in significantly less time than is typically required.

The new bachelor’s degree in Robotics, Automation and Control Systems combines technical training with the professional skills needed to become leaders in manufacturing and automated industries.

It is the first program in Utah to allow students who have earned specific certificates at participating technical colleges to apply up to 50 credits toward a degree that would normally be a four-year degree program at the university. Students who complete the automation technology certificate and the control systems and robotics certificate—including high school students who can take technical college courses tuition-free—can transfer those credits directly to USU.

"This degree demonstrates what is possible when higher education and technical education work together," said Chenese Boyle, an education specialist for the USU School of Professional & Technical Education. "Students don't lose credit, they don't repeat coursework, and they gain a clear pathway into high-demand careers.”

The degree was developed in partnership with Bridgerland Technical College, Davis Technical College, and Ogden-Weber Technical College. The partnership gives students at those colleges a direct pathway from technical certificates that qualify them for jobs and on to a degree and skills they will need to advance in their careers. It is designed to meet growing employer demand for professionals who combine hands-on technical skills with a deeper understanding of business, management, and systems thinking.

"Students receive outstanding technical training through our partner institutions," said Zak Konakis, director of the USU School of Professional & Technical Education and vice provost for technical education and academic pathways. "This degree builds on that foundation by adding the broader university education that helps graduates become leaders in their field.”

Graduates will be prepared to become automation engineers, controls engineers, robotics specialists, systems integrators, industrial automation technicians, and manufacturing leaders across Utah's growing advanced manufacturing sector.

The degree will be offered fully online, giving students the flexibility to complete it around work, family, and other commitments. It reflects a broader statewide effort to strengthen collaboration among technical colleges, community colleges, and universities by creating stackable credentials and expanded transfer opportunities.

“This seamlessly bridges the gap between hands-on technical expertise and a university degree, giving our students an incredible head start and points them right at some of the best career opportunities Northern Utah has to offer,” said Matt Fuller, instructor and head of Bridgerland Technical College’s Automation Department in Logan. “This is a huge win…and demonstrates that truly stackable pathways are an incredible way for students to thrive now and into the future.”

The Utah Board of Higher Education has specifically identified partnerships between technical colleges and universities as a key strategy for meeting workforce needs and expanding educational access.

"I see this new degree as a clear pathway from technical college to a four-year degree,” said Mike Tolson, Industrial Automation coordinator at Ogden-Weber Technical College. “It builds on students’ hands-on skills, expands their opportunities, and prepares them to make an immediate impact with local employers and in our community."

Students can enroll in the Robotics, Automation and Control Systems degree starting fall semester 2026. More information is available at https://www.usu.edu/degrees-majors/robotics-automation-and-control-systems_bs.