Industrial Automation and Robotics Technology, Associate of Science Degree | SCIT Southern California Institute of Technology

Launch your career in advanced manufacturing with our accelerated AS degree in Industrial Automation and Robotics Technology, preparing you to operate, troubleshoot, and improve the automated systems driving today’s industries.

1.5 Years

PM Classes

On-Campus

Front-loaded Design: Start by completing the Industrial Automation Technology Diploma, then gain field experience while pursuing your degree to advance your career.

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Submit form for more program information.

We Respect Your Privacy

Information submitted on this form is sent to the SCIT Admissions Department and is not shared with any third parties.

INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION & ROBOTICS TECHNOLOGY

Program Overview

The Associate of Science in Industrial Automation and Robotics Technology program is designed to build upon the foundational skills developed in the Industrial Automation Technology diploma, preparing students for more advanced roles in modern manufacturing and automated systems environments. This program deepens students’ expertise in industrial controls while introducing advanced automation concepts that are increasingly critical in today’s smart factories.

Students expand their knowledge of programmable logic controllers (PLCs) through advanced topics such as human-machine interface (HMI) development, industrial networking, and the integration of multiple PLC systems. In addition to strengthening their Allen-Bradley skillset, students are introduced to SIEMENS PLC platforms, broadening their versatility and adaptability across diverse industrial settings.

A key component of the program is hands-on training in industrial robotics, with a focus on FANUC robotic systems. Students gain practical experience in robot programming, operation, and integration within automated production environments, equipping them with skills highly sought after in advanced manufacturing.

The program culminates in a comprehensive capstone project in which students build and integrate a functional automated system. Working with components such as PLCs, robotics, sensors, and control systems, students collaborate to develop an assembly line that simulates real-world industrial applications. This experience reinforces technical competencies while developing problem-solving, teamwork, and system integration skills.

Graduates of this program are prepared for roles such as automation technician, robotics technician, controls technician, and maintenance technician in industries including manufacturing, logistics, and industrial systems integration. The program also provides a strong foundation for continued professional growth in the rapidly evolving field of industrial automation.

The AS Industrial Automation & Robotics Technology program is offered in the following formats:

PRIMARILY ON-CAMPUS
Courses are primarily offered on-campus (in-person) utilizing SCIT's instructional lab facilities. Some courses may be offered online.

A.S.I.A.R.T Curriculum

The A.S.I.A.R.T. program’s curriculum is designed to support a hands-on based learning experience that develops practical engineering skills and reinforces theory. To support our curriculum, SCIT heavily invests in expansive instructional laboratories and trainers equipped with wide-ranging, real-world industrial devices spanning various engineering disciplines. Below you will find a list of all courses required for the program*

QUARTER CREDIT UNITS: 91 Units

Indicates Lab Course

Technical

Course Code	Course Title	Units
ELE110	Electric Motor Control	4
ELE110L	Electric Motor Control Lab	2
ELE112	Advanced Electric Motor Control	4
ELE112L	Advanced Electric Motor Control Lab	2
ELE130	Industrial Electrical Fundamentals	4
ELE130L	Industrial Electrical Fundamentals Lab	2
ELE250	Introduction to Industrial Robotics	2
ELE250L	Introduction to Industrial Robotics Lab	2
IS100	Computer Network Fundamentals	4
IS100L	Computer Network Fundamentals Lab	2
MAN100	Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Standards for General Industry	1
MAN130	Programmable Logic Controllers	4
MAN130L	Programmable Logic Controllers Lab	2
MAN132	Advanced Programmable Logic Controllers	4
MAN132L	Advanced Programmable Logic Controllers Lab	2
MAN140	Hydraulic & Pneumatic Automation Technology	4
MAN140L	Hydraulic & Pneumatic Automation Technology Lab	2
MAN230	PLC Systems and Industrial Controls	4
MAN230L	PLC Systems and Industrial Controls	2
MAN235	PLC Multi-Platform Applications	4
MAN235L	PLC Multi-Platform Applications Lab	2
MAN290L	Industrial Controls Integration Lab	2
NEC100	Introduction to Electricity and National Electrical Code	4
NEC100L	Introduction to Electricity and National Electrical Code Lab

Math & Science

Course Code	Course Title	Units
MT103	Foundations of College Mathematics	1
MT121	College Algebra I	4
MT122	College Algebra II	4

Humanities

Course Code	Course Title	Units
CD101	Career Readiness	1
GE102	Composition and Critical Thinking	2
GE102L	College Writing	1
GE202	Introduction to Technical Communication	2
GE202L	Technical Writing	1
GE250	General Psychology	3
GE260	Principles of Oral Communication	2
GE350	Organizational Behavior	3

* Every effort has been taken to maintain an up to date list of courses on this site. Courses are subject to change. Official course lists can be found in the most recently published school catalog.

A.S.I.A.R.T. Learning Outcomes & Careers

The program enables graduates to pursue careers in industrial automation, robotics, manufacturing, and related technical fields. Through hands-on training in electrical, mechanical, and control systems, students develop the skills needed to support the operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and integration of modern automated equipment and industrial processes.

Student learning outcomes include:

an ability to apply fundamental principles of electrical, mechanical, and control systems to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot automated and electromechanical equipment
an ability to interpret and analyze technical documents, including wiring diagrams, schematics, PLC ladder logic, datasheets, and equipment manuals, to support system installation, testing, and repair
an ability to configure, program, and troubleshoot programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and related industrial control devices used in automated manufacturing and process systems
an ability to install, calibrate, and maintain sensors, actuators, electric motors, and robotic devices
an ability to use appropriate tools, instrumentation, and diagnostic equipment to evaluate system performance and identify faults in electrical, mechanical, and control subsystems
an ability to integrate components of industrial automation systems
an ability to communicate technical information effectively, both orally and in writing
an ability to function as team members in a technical environment

Key Program
TOPICS

Learn by working hands-on with real industrial devices including different types of electric motors, Allen Bradley and SIEMENS PLCs, FANUC Robots, pneumatic devices, and much more. Explore key topics below:

ADVANCED CONTROLS PLC Systems & Industrial Networking

Take your PLC skills to the next level by working with advanced ControlLogix and CompactLogix systems, HMI development, and industrial communication networks. Learn how to design, program, and troubleshoot interconnected PLC systems that power modern automated facilities.

INDUSTRIAL ROBOTICS FANUC Robot Programming & Integration

Gain hands-on experience with FANUC industrial robots, the global standard in manufacturing automation. Learn robot programming, operation, and system integration to perform tasks such as material handling, assembly, and automated production.

SYSTEMS ENGINEERING Automation Integration & Capstone Project

Bring it all together in a hands-on capstone experience where you design and build a fully integrated automated system. Combine PLCs, robotics, HMIs, sensors, and control systems to create a functional assembly line that mirrors real-world industrial environments.

INDUSTRIAL ELECTRICAL Systems Troubleshooting & Diagnostics

Develop the critical skills needed to diagnose and troubleshoot complex industrial electrical and control systems. Learn systematic approaches to identifying faults, interpreting schematics, and restoring automated systems to operation in high-demand industrial environments.

B.S. Electrical Engineering Degree Opportunities

Students may have the opportunity to continue their education toward a degree to open further career opportunities.

Electrical Career Pathway

Start by completing the Industrial Automation Technology program and find entry level employment in the electrical field. Work in the field while pursuing a B.S. Electrical Engineering degree in the evenings. At the end you will have a diploma, a degree and work experience.

Learn more about BSEE program.

Degree Topics Include: Digital Electronics, Semiconductors and Circuits, Programming, MATLAB, Signal Analysis, Computer Aided Drafting (CAD), 3D Modeling with SolidWorks, Embedded Systems, Robotic Engineering, Control Systems, Electric Machines, Power Systems, Power Distribution, Power Protection, Senior Capstone Project and much more.