<p>I am computer science major with research experiences in mathematical biology (differential equations that describe electrical activity in neurons), engineering education (how driving experience affects energy efficiency in electric vehicles, and image processing (particle tracking and particle image velocimetry). However, I am interested in robotics research for graduate school. I am senior and I just found out that I cannot take classes in controls and robotics because that will mean I have to extend my graduation (my scholarship requires graduation in 4 years). I have knowledge on robotics and controls from private readings. My question is how will the fact that I have no undergraduate background in my future research area affect my chances of admission?</p>
<p>You should be well primed to go into a graduate program in robotics. You might not get to work on the mechanical workings of Robots, but the most interesting work in Robotics right now is happening on the software side (artificial intelligence, machine learning, adaptive control systems, etc.).</p>
<p>I am actually interested in designing new algorithms for robotic control. I know as much about this as one can know from reading on one’s own. I plan to apply to mechanical engineering and electrical engineering departments. I know i stand a better chance in the EECS’s. My PI in my last internship is in the mechanical engineering department and that is my first choice for graduate school. How do these things work? Will they admit me and hope I catch up? </p>
<p>P.S.</p>
<p>GRE: Math (800), Verbal (750)
G.P.A: 3.8 (3rd-4th tier school)
International Student</p>
<p>bump…</p>
<p>You should apply in EECS. Even though most Robotics professors are in MechE, you should be able to find someone in either EE or CS interested in robotics. If you get in MechE, then they will likely think you are a hardware person (not a software type).</p>
<p>^^^^</p>
<p>Why will they think I am a hardware person if my background is in computer science?</p>