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Automation Programming Certificate

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2026-2027 Edition

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25 Semester Credit Hours; Curriculum: 0248

Intermediate level certificate prepares students for technical positions in industrial automation and mechatronics fields. The main focus of the certificate is development of programming skills by students to run sophisticated automation systems managed by various controllers. Students will learn to design, program, monitor, and troubleshoot automation systems ranging from basic equipment to complex industrial systems.

Course List
Code Title Hours
Courses for a Certificate
MFG 112Automation Overview3
MFG 170Industrial Electronics3
MFG 135Fluid Power and Controls4
or MFG 210 Industrial Robotics and Automation
MFG 220Machine Vision Systems3
or MFG 225 Motors and Controls
MFG 240Programmable Controllers4
MFG 245Intermediate Programmable Controllers4
MFG 250Advanced Programmable Controllers4
Total Hours25

Automation Programming Certificate Pathway

The following Pathway is recommended for students pursuing the Automation Programming Certificate.

Plan of Study Grid
First Year
Fall SemesterHours
MFG 112 Automation Overview 3
MFG 170 Industrial Electronics 3
MFG 240 Programmable Controllers 4
 Hours10
Spring Semester
MFG 135
or MFG 210
Fluid Power and Controls
or Industrial Robotics and Automation
4
MFG 245 Intermediate Programmable Controllers 4
 Hours8
Second Year
Fall Semester
MFG 220
or MFG 225
Machine Vision Systems
or Motors and Controls
3
MFG 250 Advanced Programmable Controllers 4
 Hours7
 Total Hours25

Note: Pathway is a recommended sequence of courses. Students should contact the department chair of program coordinator with questions about course prerequisites and recommendations.

Program Learning Outcomes

  1. Compose state diagrams and flow charts based on machine functional sequence and operational requirements.
  2. Define Programmable Logic/Automation Controllers (PLC/PAC) and their advantages over Relay Logic systems.
  3. Create Ladder Diagram, Function Block Diagram and Sequential Function Chart programs to control machine operation sequence.
  4. Evaluate PLC/PAC programs to assure they meet OSHA operational safety requirements for automated equipment.
  5. Design various screen layouts to control automated industrial equipment by Human Machine Interface (HMI) devices.
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