22 Semester Credit Hours; Curriculum: 0248
Intermediate level certificate prepares students for technical positions in modern 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.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Courses for a Certificate | ||
| MFG 112 | Introduction to Automation | 3 |
| MFG 135 | Fluid Power and Controls | 4 |
| or MFG 210 | Industrial Robotics and Automation | |
| MFG 220 | Automation Vision Systems | 3 |
| or MFG 225 | Motors and Controls | |
| MFG 240 | Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) | 4 |
| MFG 245 | Programmable Automation Controllers (PAC) | 4 |
| MFG 250 | Advanced Automation Controllers | 4 |
| Total Hours | 22 | |
Automation Programming Certificate Pathway
The following Pathway is recommended for students pursuing the Automation Programming Certificate.
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall Semester | Hours | |
| MFG 112 | Introduction to Automation | 3 |
| MFG 240 | Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) | 4 |
| Hours | 7 | |
| Spring Semester | ||
| MFG 135 or MFG 225 | Fluid Power and Controls or Motors and Controls | 3-4 |
| MFG 245 | Programmable Automation Controllers (PAC) | 4 |
| Hours | 7 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Fall Semester | ||
| MFG 210 or MFG 220 | Industrial Robotics and Automation or Automation Vision Systems | 3-4 |
| MFG 250 | Advanced Automation Controllers | 4 |
| Hours | 8 | |
| Total Hours | 22 | |
Note: Pathway is a recommended sequence of courses. Students should contact the program coordinator with questions about course prerequisites and recommendations.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Compose state diagrams and flow charts based on machine functional sequence and operational requirements.
- Define Programmable Logic/Automation Controllers (PLC/PAC) and their advantages over Relay Logic systems.
- Create Ladder Diagram, Function Block Diagram, and Sequential Function Chart programs to control machine operation sequence.
- Evaluate PLC/PAC programs to assure they meet OSHA operational safety requirements for automated equipment.
- Design various screen layouts to control automated industrial equipment by Human Machine Interface (HMI) devices.