Industrial Automation and Networks

Overview

The Certificate in Industrial Automation and Networks aims to provide the learner with advanced knowledge of PLC programming using multi-languages and the ability to develop PLC communication across the required network structures.

Upon successful completion of this programme the graduate will be able to demonstrate:

• Detailed knowledge and understanding of the essential facts, major concepts, principles and theories associated with PLC, HMI and Networking in modern automation systems.
• The ability to evaluate the five IEC61131: 
• PLC Programming Languages and the appropriate network communication protocols
• Connect the correct Input/Outputs to the PLC, HMI and map the IO bits to the programming charts.
• Programme a PLC incorporating a HMI using the appropriate languages communicating across the selected network.

Course Delivery

This course will be delivered using a blended teaching approach comprising of classroom based face-to-face teaching and live online sessions. 

The physical classroom sessions will be held on the MTU Bishopstown Campus in Cork.

• Semester 1: September to December- 2 nights per week on Wednesday (online) and Thursday evenings (blended) 6.30-9.30pm.
• Semester 2: January to May- one night per week. This is delivered in a blended format on Thursday evenings (6.30-9.30pm).

Award

15 ECTS Credits on the NFQ will be received by students who successfully complete the course.

Entry Requirements

Candidates should have obtained a Level 7 in Automation and Control or similar. Candidates may also be considered through MTU’s well-established RPL process.

Candidates with sufficient experience which in the judgement of MTU may be deemed equivalent to this qualification will be considered following the principles/procedures set out the Institute’s Recognition of Prior Learning service in MTU.

What is RPL?

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is when formal recognition is given for what you already know prior to starting on a programme or module. With recognition of prior learning the focus is on learning and not on experience as such. You can apply for RPL in any MTU accredited programme or module. Programmes which are accredited by professional bodies or any external awarding bodies may have their own procedures for RPL which you should refer to.

Fees

€2,200

Please note that applicants will be required to pay an acceptance fee of €250 online if a place on a course is offered. This fee is deductible from the overall course fee. You will not be charged for applying for the programme by clicking the 'apply now' button; you are only asked to pay an acceptance fee if a place is offered to you and you wish to accept it.

**Funding Options Available**

The course cost is normally €2,200 however a 40% subsidy from Cobotics Skillnet is currently available to eligible applicants. This reduces the course cost to €1,320 (a saving of €880).

In order to avail of funding you must be working in the private sector. Public sector workers are not eligible for Skillnet funding.

All private sector businesses of any size, including sole traders, that are based in the Republic of Ireland are eligible to undertake part-funded upskilling with Skillnet Ireland. 

Please note: the company must be paying the course fee. Funding is not available to individual applicants.