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Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
A student works on a computer in the automation lab

Automation Engineering Technology - Associate Degree

As a graduate of the Automation Engineering Technology program, you'll be ready to work with integrated machine systems that involve industrial automation, robotics, mechanics, computers, industrial communications and/or electronics technology. Your potential career opportunities include controls designer, automation technician, controls technician, engineering technician, controls engineer in training, and automation engineer in training.

Program Code: 106641
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Home » Academics and Training » Automation Engineering Technology
Area of Study: Manufacturing, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics

Program Costs & Financial Aid

See costs of tuition, books, and supplies.

This program is fully eligible for financial aid.

Estimates based on in-state residency. Learn more about tuition and fees.

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Offered At:

Follow Your Path

Some credits from the following certificate(s) apply toward this associate degree:

904621, Industrial Maintenance Certificate

Ask your advisor about 2+2 transfer opportunities.

Delivery

  • Day
  • Evening
  • Full-time
  • Part-time

Complete lab activities for this program at the Engineering Technology Center – whenever it’s convenient for you. The lab is open days, evenings, and Saturdays. View center hours and take a virtual tour! 

How do I get started in this program?

Requirements for Program Entry

  • Apply at www.nwtc.edu/apply.
  • Submit the following to transcripts@nwtc.edu: • High school transcript (or GED/HSED transcript). • College transcript.
  • Tip! Our admission advisors will assist you through every step. Have questions? Connect with NWTC Admissions at start@nwtc.edu or 920-498-5444.
  • Beginning courses require mastery of algebra skills. For a description of algebra skills, see the Basic Education section of this catalog.

What are my courses?

Curriculum

Students following the study plan below will complete the Automation Engineering Technology associate degree in the number of semesters shown.

First Semester

8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Semester Total 15

Second Semester

8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Full Semester
Semester Total 16

Third Semester

8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Semester Total 16

Fourth Semester

8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Full Semester
Semester Total 15
Total Credits 62

Suggested Electives

  • Curriculum Note: The credit for 10-890-101, College 101 is an Institutional Requirement for graduation. Consequently, it is not part of the program requirements, but must be passed with a C or better.
  • It is acceptable for students to take 10-804-113, College Tech Math 1A and 10-804-114, College Tech Math 1B as alternatives to: 10-804-117, College Mathematics and 10-804-118, Intermediate Algebra w/Apps.
  • Students must pass 10-801-136, English Composition 1 with a "C" or better to take 10-801-197, Technical Reporting.
  • DC 1: Introduction is offered through our high school program partnership. Students who have completed DC 1: Introduction in high school may enroll in Introduction to AC/DC 2. All other students must take 10-660-116, Introduction to AC/DC and do not need to take Introduction to AC/DC 2.

Program Outcomes

  • Understand and apply knowledge of electricity, electronics and motors to industrial applications.
  • Read and interpret technical specifications, detail and assembly drawings, schematics, and diagrams for machine control.
  • Document technical information through descriptive writing, sketches/diagrams, mathematical expression, computation, and graphs.
  • Analyze electrical, mechanical, fluid control functions for proper machine programming and operation.
  • Apply a variety programming languages to the control of single manufacturing cells, programmable controllers, computer networks, industrial networks and information systems using a dynamic data exchange.
  • Construct ladder diagrams, flow charts, timing diagrams, and basic computer control algorithms for machine control.
  • Understand and apply computer hardware/software applications to industrial systems.
  • Apply diagnostic tools to troubleshoot and resolve system problems.
  • Apply critical thinking skills to solving problems.
  • Effectively communicate and perform in a team environment.

What careers are in my future?

100%

Graduate Employment

with 100% in field

$62,500.00

Median Starting Salary

Source: NWTC Graduate Outcome Survey

Employment Potential

A graduate of this program will have the potential for employment in the following areas:

  • Controls Designer
  • Automation Technician
  • Controls Technician
  • Engineering Technician
  • Controls Engineer in Training
  • Automation Engineer in Training

What's next after graduation?

Start here. Finish at a four-year.

NWTC transfer programs are offered through collaborative agreements with our four-year college and university partners. See where your associate degree credits will transfer.

What else do I need to know about the program?

Study Abroad Opportunities

The International Programs staff continually seeks opportunities for students to travel abroad for educational experiences that may be offered in association with program courses.

Learn more about upcoming study abroad opportunities.

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Online

Classes wherever you have an internet connection. 

  • An in-person career experience, such as an internship, practicum, or credit for prior learning, may be required.
  • Some online courses may be held at specific dates/times.
Day
Classes between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
Evening
Classes between the hours of 5:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.
Weekend
A combination of online classes and Saturday and/or Sunday classes.
Full-time
12 or more credits per term.
Part-time
Fewer than 12 credits per term.