Columbus State approved for degree in Robotics Engineering by Board of Regents

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) – Columbus State University was approved to offer new Bachelor’s of Science and Master of Science degrees in Robotics engineering by the University System of Georgia’s Board of Regents. The program could begin as early as the fall semester in 2019, according to CSU.

“This is a game changer for our university, our community, and our current and future students,” said CSU President Chris Markwood. “The job outlook in robotics engineering is extremely bright, with an increasingly high demand for talent right here in the Columbus. This is yet another opportunity for us to work with local employers to train tomorrow’s workforce with the exact skills needed within our region.”

The program will be CSU’s first engineering degree. In the past, the university has offered an Associate’s degree of Science in engineering. Since 2011, CSU has also offered a 21 credit hour robotics certification.

“Now engineering students will be able to stay right here at Columbus State University,” said Dr. Clinton Barineau, Chair of CSU’s Department of Earth and Space Sciences. “We will also work with community partners to provide our students with internship and job opportunities here in Columbus.”

CSU also hosts the GeorgiaFIRST Robotics Competitition. In combination with “CSU’s proximity to Fort Benning” and “the work of CSU’s Coca Cola Space Science Center,” hosting the competition was an “asset in obtaining approval for the new program.”

“We pride ourselves on offering innovative education programs that ensure students are well-prepared for existing jobs in the field,” said CSU Provost Deborah Bordelon. “The new robotics engineering program will further demonstrate the crucial role that CSU plays in developing a highly-skilled workforce for industry partners regionally and nationally.”

Once these new degree programs begin, they will be housed in CSU’s Department of Earth and Space Sciences.