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 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.
Explore Locations
Follow Your Path
Some credits from the following certificate(s) apply toward this associate degree:
906641, Automation Fundamentals
906643, Controls Systems
906206, Motors and Drives
906208, Robotics
906642, Advanced PLC
Ask your advisor about 2+2 transfer opportunities.
Delivery
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
Second Semester
8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Full Semester
Third Semester
8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Fourth Semester
8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Full Semester
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?
Graduate Employment
with 100% in field
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.
- 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.