Robertson will take over from Todd Blackadder for the 2017 season.
He said taking the head coaching job would be a dream come true.
"This is a team I have played for, am passionate about and looking forward to leading. The head coach of the Crusaders is regarded as one of the best jobs in the world, so I couldn't be more excited to be taking it on.
"When I think about the remarkable men who have done the job before me, including current head coach Todd Blackadder, I am humbled and honoured to be stepping into their shoes.
"The previous and current coaching teams have built an impressive legacy and I take the responsibility of continuing and building on that legacy very seriously. The playing group is a great bunch of men who I am excited to work with; I will give everything to this role and am ready to take on the opportunity," Robertson said.
Crusaders CEO Hamish Riach said Robertson has the credentials and vision to be an outstanding Super Rugby coach.
"Scott is a highly skilled coach who we believe is absolutely ready for the step up to Super Rugby. He has been an important contributor to the incredible success that the Canterbury team has enjoyed over the past eight years and he has also earned respect on the world stage as Head Coach of the New Zealand Under 20 team," Mr Riach said.
"We had a highly contested process with some exceptional candidates, so that made it a very difficult decision in some ways. However, we are very excited about what Scott Robertson offers this team and thrilled to be appointing him to the role."
The current Canterbury head coach, Robertson has won two ITM Cup Premierships, after having being assistant coach as the team won five consecutive titles between 2008 and 2012.
Last year he claimed a world championship as head coach of the New Zealand U20 side.
As a player Robertson played for the red and blacks as a loose forward and made 23 test appearances for the All Blacks.
He will continue coaching Canterbury through until the end of the 2016 season.
