Which Programming Language Should I Learn for Robotics? A Beginner’s Guide to Getting Started

Robotics is a diverse, dynamic field impacting many sectors and poised for significant growth. Data suggests that the robotics market, worth an estimated $16.10 billion in 2024, will increase at an annual rate of 38.5 percent, bringing it to a total value of more than $124 billion by 2030 [1]. Although these systems contain various components, programming is what brings them all together. Think of robots’ controllers like their brain, and programming as the instructions that let it know how to respond to various inputs. Working in robotics typically requires familiarity with one or more programming languages. 

Explore some of the available options to begin planning your learning experience. If you’re ready to learn more, consider enrolling in the AI Python for Beginners course from Deeplearning.AI, where you can learn Python programming fundamentals and its integration with AI tools for data manipulation, analysis, and visualization.

Best programming languages for robotics

Just like robotic systems themselves, this field contains many moving parts, and because of its multi-disciplinary nature, no one programming language stands out as the “best.” Instead, it’s critical to understand that different tasks require different programming languages. The “best” depends on your experience level and the area of robotics you want to focus on. 

Robotics disciplines

Robotics is a dynamic field that combines many disciplines, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer science, engineering, math, and programming to create machines that can perform various tasks and respond with some level of “intelligence” and the ability to adapt to changing conditions.

As technologies continue evolving and robotics continues its increasing implementation across diverse industries, having familiarity with programming languages can put you at an advantage. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts jobs within the broader category of mechanical engineering, under which robotics falls, will grow at a faster-than-average rate of 11 percent in the decade leading up to 2033 [2]. Mastery of relevant languages can help speed up prototyping, enhance the integration of various systems, and improve overall structures for projects that offer usability and optimal performance. 

Industries that use robotics

Robotic systems mimic human behavior and allow machines to work alongside or in place of humans in specific circumstances to enhance safety and productivity, reduce the possibility of error, and potentially save money. As robotics continues to evolve and machines become increasingly sophisticated, a growing number of sectors are embracing their use, including the following: 

• Manufacturing: Robotic systems can aid manufacturing facilities in various ways, including security in physical locations, assembly and other production-related tasks, and transporting materials. 

• Health care: Robots can aid doctors and surgeons in performing procedures. They can also provide disinfection services, deliver medication, and reduce errors in testing processes.

• Agriculture: Autonomous systems can aid in harvest and pollination. Robotics can also aid in moving branches and debris, and determining when crops are ripe and ready for harvest.

• Hospitality: Robots can enhance guest experiences by providing automated valet services, cleaning rooms and shared spaces, and offering directions and information about local attractions. 

• Military: The advent of unmanned drones has greatly expanded the military’s ability to monitor large areas, keep watch over sensitive assets, provide support on the battlefield, and assess potential risks. 

• Aerospace: Robotic systems make it possible to perform what would otherwise be impossible for humans, such as mining on Mars. 

Robotics programming for beginners

Robotic systems typically contain several systems, each of which performs its own functions and may require different types of programming. For instance, the robot's "brain" is its control system, which uses a combination of software and algorithms to determine how the robot will respond. Other core systems include motors, which help the robot move, sensors, which enable machines to perceive their surroundings and interact with their environment, and a communication system, which allows the various components to exchange information. Programming helps control all of these systems and determine how the robot will respond and make decisions. 

Various programming languages work with different functions and systems, which is why determining the language you want to learn typically depends on what you want to do within robotics. Explore a few popular options to begin planning your learning pathway.

Python

Python offers an easy starting point if you’re new to programming. It also offers versatility that makes it ideal for various uses and an extensive selection of frameworks and libraries to support your needs. Python is well-suited to various applications, including AI and machine learning, 

In robotics, Python often excels in areas like scripting robot behaviors, quickly building prototypes, and elements requiring artificial intelligence, such as systems that integrate predictive analytics or use machine learning algorithms. 

C++

Although many find it more challenging to learn than Python, C++ is among the core programming languages in robotics. It’s a compiled language that offers a mix of performance and speed. It also provides significant memory control, the ability to handle several processes simultaneously, and implement robotic and AI systems with low-level hardware, such as motor input and sensor collection elements. C++ is ideal for low-level tasks, including embedded systems, and it excels with performance-critical components like real-time systems, such as autonomous vehicles, that require instant decision-making.

ROS (Robot Operating System)

Think of ROS as a framework, a messaging layer that acts as a go-between to enable cross-language robotic development and the creation of complex systems. It works with multiple robotic programming languages, including Python and C++, and has its own libraries and tools to help you begin working on a small or large robotic project. ROS is essential for helping all the different parts of a robot to communicate with each other, allowing sensors, algorithms, and other elements to perform in tandem for your desired result. 

MATLAB 

MATLAB is more than just a programming language; it’s a platform that incorporates a language, libraries, tools, and interactive applications. It’s particularly popular in academia and research, and development. MATLAB excels in research, development, and engineering because you can use it to create detailed robotic models, optimize and simulate systems with fine details, verify designs, and analyze data from sensors. 

Java 

Java is another popular language, particularly among those creating enterprise applications and back-end data processing, making it a strong contender for use with AI systems that deal with big data or require rapid processing of extensive data sets. Although other programming languages offer more flexibility and efficiency, Java can also benefit robotics applications. For example, Java has application programming interfaces (APIs) that can help you create elements like speech recognition and speech synthesizers, robotic kits, or introduce computer vision to the mix.

Python vs. C++ for robotics: Which is better

It depends. Python and C++ both have unique uses within the field of robotics, and the one that’s better depends on the function. You might use C++ for high-level tasks like real-time decision-making, parallel processing, and processing vast sets of data. Python, on the other hand, excels in areas like building prototypes, coding interfaces, or systems using predictive analytics.

Which programming language should I learn for robotics?

One effective way to become familiar with robotics is to gain some practical experience, which can be helpful for hobbyists, learners, and those looking to change careers. Where you fall on the spectrum could help determine the right language to learn. For example:

• Python: Excellent for hobbyists, total beginners, and professionals who want to work with AI and autonomous systems

• C++: Ideal for learners interested in competitive robotics or embedded systems

• MATLAB: Academics, researchers, and engineers

• Java: Works well for industrial automation systems

How robotics programming languages work together

Robotics applications and projects are complex, typically requiring multiple programming languages to address a project’s various needs. For example, you might need C++ for real-time motor control, Python for high-level logic, decision-making, and quick prototyping, with ROS to coordinate everything.

Possible career paths that align with different robotics programming languages

Talent shortages and increasing demand for skilled professionals contribute to a positive job outlook in the vast, multi-disciplinary field of robotics. It encompasses such a broad range of positions, opening the door to various career paths. 

Just as each programming language has its own advantages and potential drawbacks, each offers strengths and capabilities to different professional areas, which is why it’s essential to consider the application and ultimately your overarching career goals as you decide on the programming language or languages you want to learn. Explore four possible career paths you might take and the programming languages suited to them to help narrow down your choices. 

Machine learning engineer 

Median total pay: $156,000 [3]

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree at a minimum, typically

In this dynamic position, you’ll work collaboratively with data analysts and scientists to create programs and build software that performs functions like organizing and analyzing data for various uses. Writing code is integral to a lot of the work you will do as an AI or ML engineer. Python is a popular option due to its versatility. It also has a rich selection of frameworks and libraries like PyTorch, scikit-learn, and NumPy, which can aid you in various tasks in areas ranging from ML algorithms to deep learning to data science. Other languages that can be helpful to become familiar with include C++ and Java.

Robotics software engineer

Median total pay: $149,000 [4]

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree often required; associate degree or specialized training may also offer entry to the field

As a robotics software engineer, you’ll design software that allows robots and autonomous systems to move, interact with sensors, process incoming data, and respond appropriately. You’ll essentially be working at the heart of the instructions that allow robots to perform their functions correctly. Working on the software side of robotics typically requires familiarity with programming languages like C++, Java, and Python. 

Robotics research engineer

Median total pay: $128,000 [5]

Requirements: Associate degree at a minimum; bachelor’s or higher typically

Robotics research engineers often need a robust set of skills, including familiarity with programming languages like Python, which many use in AI and ML development. In this position, you perform a varied set of tasks, which can include researching technology, building new systems, writing algorithms, evaluating prototypes, and more. Because MATLAB excels in research and development applications, providing powerful modeling and simulation abilities, you’ll likely use it extensively in your work. You might also use R occasionally when working with data-centric systems that don’t require real-time processing. 

Autonomous systems developer 

Median total pay: $100,000 [6]

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree at a minimum

As an autonomous systems developer or engineer, you’ll use multiple technologies, including sensors and AI, to build systems that can operate with a high degree of independence. These systems, which can include items like self-driving vehicles, drones, and delivery robots, can learn during operations and respond to unanticipated changes. One of the preferred programming languages for applications that demand real-time processing and rapid decision-making is C++. You will likely also need familiarity with ROS, which aids in various elements, including implementing sensors and testing system performance. 

Tips for learning robotics programming languages

If you’re new to programming, start simple and grow when you’re ready. Many beginners enjoy beginning with Python, which is simple, readable, and helps you build a solid programming foundation. Once you have a good sense of the basics and familiarity with the various frameworks, begin building small projects to gain practical experience. From there, move on to another programming language that suits your interests and career goals, like C++, MATLAB, or Java. 

Just as no one-size-fits-all programming language rules over robotics, you won’t find just one single path for learning robotics programming languages. Some options include learning as part of a degree program, taking online courses, participating in a project, and pursuing certifications. Learn more about each to begin envisioning your strategy. 

As part of a degree

Although a degree is only sometimes required for careers in robotics, gaining one can provide the robust foundation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) needed for many positions. It can also give you exposure to the field’s various disciplines and provide a structured way to learn programming languages. 

Online courses

Whether you’re researching the field to gauge your own interest, considering a career change, or looking to learn with more flexibility than a formal degree program offers, online courses can provide the skill-building opportunities you need. For example, on Coursera, you might opt for a beginner-friendly option like the University of Michigan’s five-course Python for Everybody Specialization to learn the fundamentals. Or, you might go one step further with an intermediate-level class like Mastering Programming with MATLAB from Vanderbilt University.

Projects and open-source challenges

Building and coding robots on your own can offer an excellent practical course of knowledge to help you become proficient in the area. Internships, co-op programs, and open-source challenges can also give you a chance to work with programming languages and robotics in general to gain experience. 

Certifications 

Certification programs often help you learn relevant skills like programming before testing your abilities and granting you a credential that demonstrates your mastery of the language or certification area. You might opt for a language-specific option like the MATLAB certification from MathWorks or a broader robotics credential like the Certified Automation Professional (CAP) from the International Society of Automation (ISA), which assesses your ability to design, develop, and deploy automated systems and their components.

Continue exploring robotics programming languages on Coursera

The world of robotics programming languages is as diverse as the dynamic, multi-disciplinary field itself. Continue exploring your options for learning robotics programming languages on Coursera.

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