Thematic areas and training profiles

Thematic Areas

Methodologies for Physical AI systems

This area provides the theoretical foundations of modern automation: mathematical modeling, optimal and robust control, identification techniques and complex dynamic systems. Throughout the program, students learn to tackle real-world control and optimization problems through courses such as Nonlinear and Adaptive Control, Numerical Optimization for Control, and Data-Driven Control. It is ideal for those who want to strengthen a technical and analytical profile, with strong skills in the design of advanced control algorithms
.

Technologies for Physical AI systems

This area explores the enabling technologies that make automatic systems “intelligent”: sensors, actuators, microcontrollers, communications, and software for distributed control. It includes courses such as Embedded Systems, Industrial Internet of Things, and ICT for Control Systems. Students gain practical skills in hardware–software integration, essential for working on embedded platforms, sensor networks, or connected industrial applications.

Project Experiences

These offer concrete opportunities to put classroom knowledge into practice by working in teams on real or simulated projects. In courses such as Project Work or Smart Wearables Design and Prototyping, students tackle interdisciplinary challenges that combine electronics, mechanics, and control, often in collaboration with companies or Politecnico laboratories. It’s an experience that helps students understand the practical and collaborative nature of automation engineering.

Robotics

An area that is highly interdisciplinary, combining control, perception, and motion planning. Students study the dynamics and control of robotic manipulators, mobile robots, and collaborative robots through courses such as Control of Industrial Robots, Control of Mobile Robots, and Perception Localization and Mapping for Mobile Robots. Laboratory and simulation activities allow them to work with robotic arms, mobile robots, and ROS environments, developing key skills for both industrial and service robotics.

Autonomous Vehicles

This area focuses on automation in the automotive sector and intelligent mobility systems. It includes courses such as Automation and Control in Autonomous Vehicles and Automation and Control in Electric and Hybrid Vehicles, where students study vehicle dynamics, sensor fusion, autonomous driving, and advanced traction control. Students develop interdisciplinary skills that are valuable in both research and in the automotive, transportation, and electric mobility industries.

Energy Systems and Natural Resources

It focuses on the automation of energy systems and on sustainable resource-management processes. In courses such as Advanced Process Control and Energy Systems Control, students learn to design control strategies for smart grids, energy production plants, and distribution systems. The area combines control, optimization, and sustainability skills, making it ideal for those interested in the energy transition and the efficient management of resources.

Industrial Processes, Plants and Manufacturing

It addresses the core of industrial automation: process control, supervision, production optimization, and digital twins. Typical courses include Production Systems Control, Process Automation, and Additive Manufacturing. Students learn how to apply control algorithms and modeling techniques to modern production systems, with a perspective aligned with Industry 4.0 and the digitalization of manufacturing processes.

Transversal Skills

This area integrates technical training with communication, managerial, and ethical skills. Courses such as Critical Thinking, High-tech Enterpreneurship and Ethics for Technology help students develop essential soft skills for working in international teams, addressing complex decisions, and managing the social dimension of technological innovation. It is an essential complement to technical preparation, aimed at shaping well-rounded and responsible professionals.