CERTIFICATE IN

Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) and Robotic Automation

13 Credits
  • Explore your interests and acquire knowledge in robotics and automation with applications in various service sectors of the industry.
  • Demonstrate the ability to maintain, troubleshoot, and repair robots and automated systems within these industries, displaying proficiency in their operation and handling.
Female student working in Computer-Aided Design lab

Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) and Robotic Automation

The greater NYC area stands as the largest regional urban economy in the nation, with service industries serving as integral components. Currently, there exists a shortage of technicians possessing the requisite skills to maintain programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and robots, technologies increasingly vital across diverse service sectors including wholesale and retail, pharmaceuticals, hospitals, food and beverage, as well as airport baggage and cargo handling.

In response to the skills gap and workforce shortage, the certificate program prioritizes the training of PLC and Robotic Automation (PRA) Technicians. This comprehensive two-semester (13-credit) program comprises four 3-credit courses and one 1-credit lab in Robotics and Automation. Designed to equip students with the essential skills needed to embark on a career as PLC and Robotic Technicians, the curriculum offers thorough instruction tailored to the specific demands of the industry. Graduates of this program will emerge adeptly prepared to assume roles as PRA technicians within the diverse landscape of service industries.

Furthermore, the credits earned through completion of the certificate program hold the added benefit of being transferable to Vaughn College’s Mechatronic Engineering program, providing students with a seamless pathway to further their education and career prospects. Check out our PLC program flyer for additional information.

We invite you to listen to episode 17 of our podcast to learn more about this certificate program and the types of in-demand careers you’ll be eligible for with this certification.

95% of Vaughn grads 78% in their field—are employed or continue their education within one year*
US News & World Report - Vaughn College - 2025 Best Regional College - North
More than 93% of students receive financial aid

Vaughn provides students with invaluable experiences that help prepare them for lifelong careers.

WHAT YOU'LL STUDY

In this certificate program, students will engage in courses covering topics such as Introduction to Robotics Technologies, Fundamentals of Siemens and Allen-Bradley PLCs, and Industrial Machinery and Networking. Through hands-on experience, students will learn to design and operate robotic manipulators or automated systems tailored for applications in various service sectors of the industry. Additionally, students will develop proficiency in maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing robots or automated systems through PLC and industrial equipment and networking courses, equipping them with essential skills for success in the industry. 

SAMPLE CLASSES
  • Introduction to Robotics Technologies
  • Electrical Circuit Analysis and Implementation
  • Digital Logic and Fundamentals of PLCs
  • Automation Industry Machinery and Equipment
  • Allen-Bradley PLCs and Industrial Networking

Career Prospects

Graduates are prepared to pass SACA (Smart Automation Certification Alliance) exams, earning industry-recognized certification required to receive roles such as:

Automation Systems Specialist
Programmable Logic Controller
Robotic Technician
Control System Specialist
Robotics Systems Specialist

CAREER PROSPECTS

COMPANIES

  • AMAZON
  • AMERICAN AIRLINES
  • BOEING
  • CON EDISON
  • COX & COMPANY
  • GE HEALTHCARE
  • JOHN DEERE
  • MAGELLAN AEROSPACE
  • PEPSICO

SEE MORE DEGREES IN
ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

*Outcomes include data within one year of graduation for graduates who reported via survey. There were a total of 361 reported graduates in 2023. 239 reported an outcome for an 66% response rate. The 2023 graduate class includes September 2022, December 2022 and May 2023 graduates.