Professional Certificate of Competency in IEC 61850 Based Substation Automation

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Months
Mode Online
Level Undergraduate
Degree Undergraduate Certificate
Closing soon May 2027

Course Overview

The Professional Certificate of Competency in IEC 61850 Based Substation Automation from the Engineering Institute of Technology is designed for engineers and technicians seeking to master the intricacies of modern substation automation. You will explore the essential functions, architectures, and communication protocols that underpin reliable power system operations. This course provides a deep dive into the IEC 61850 standard, equipping you with the knowledge to identify optimal networking components, leverage its data integration capabilities, and understand its communication mapping, configuration, and testing procedures. It is ideal for professionals aiming to enhance efficiency and productivity in substation automation projects.

Delivered online and studied part-time over 3 months, your learning experience will be structured around 12 comprehensive modules. You will gain practical insights into topics such as substation automation functions, power system automation architectures, and the specific data modelling approach of IEC 61850, including GOOSE messaging and Sampled Values. The syllabus details hands-on exercises covering SCL configuration, client/server interactions, and conformance testing. You will graduate with a robust understanding of migration and implementation issues, product developments, and the ability to confidently apply IEC 61850 to diverse applications like hydropower plants and distributed energy resources.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This professional certificate program provides a comprehensive understanding of IEC 61850-based substation automation. You will explore fundamental concepts, including network topologies and communication protocols, alongside detailed coverage of substation automation functions and power system architectures. The course delves into the intricacies of the IEC 61850 standard, covering its data modeling approach, communication models, configuration language, and practical implementation aspects. Finally, you will review current automation products and recent developments in the field.

1 Module 1: Introduction

Network topologies
Client/server & publish/subscribe concept
DNP3 and IEC 60870
Utility Communication Architecture (UCA)
Key features of IEC 61850

2 Module 2: Substation Automation Functions

Remote Terminal Unit (RTU)
PLC and Protection Relays
Intelligent Electronic Device (IED)

3 Module 3: Power System Automation Architectures

General structure
Types of automation architectures
Architecture of HV substation automation systems
Automation of MV substations
HV bay control
Current and future trends

4 Module 4: Basic Iec 61850 Substation Architecture

IEC61850 Architecture
Merging Units (MUs)
Station Bus
Process Bus

5 Module 5: Communication Basics

Physical Interfaces (10/100/1000 Mbps)
Media (copper, multi-mode fiber, single-mode fiber)
Media access (full-duplex vs. CSMA /CD)
VLANs
Network redundancy

6 Module 6: TCP/IP and Related Concepts

TCP & UDP
IP addressing: IPv4 vs. IPv6
Subnet masks and default gateways
Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS)
WANs

7 Module 7: Iec 61850 Data Modelling Approach

The information model
The Abstract Communication Service Interface (ACSI)
Logical devices
Logical nodes
Data objects

8 Module 8: Iec 61850 Data Modelling & Communication Models

Common data class
Manufacturing Message Specification (MMS)
Generic Object Oriented Substation Event (GOOSE)
GOOSE messaging
Sampled Values (SV) multicast

9 Module 9: Time Sync, Configuration Language & Tools

Time Synchronisation (SNTP)
IEC 61850-6 Substation Configuration Language (SCL)
Software tools

10 Module 10: Practical & Conformance Testing

Documentation and process
Assessment process
Testing methods
Practical example and exercise (SCL, Client/Server, GOOSE, and SV)

11 Module 11: Migration & Implementation Issues

Migration issues
Benefits of IEC 61850
Implementation issues

12 Module 12: Review of Automation Products & Recent Developments

Product review
IEC 61850 Edition 2
Object models for hydropower plants, wind turbines and Distributed Energy Resources (DER)
Mapping of IEC 61850 on DN P3 and IEC 60870-5-101/-104
The use of IEC 61499 (Distributed Function Blocks) in conjunction with IEC 61850
Exchanging synchrophasor data between PMUs, PDCs, WAM PAC and control center applications: IEC/TR 618-90-5:2012(E)
Communication with the control center based on IEC 61850 and Harmonisation with CIM

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 979.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 979.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 580.00 - USD 1,974.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,122.00 - USD 2,971.00
Transport USD 849.00 - USD 1,698.00
Utilities & Bills USD 849.00 - USD 1,698.00
Estimated Total USD 3,820.00 - USD 6,367.00

Living cost estimates are based on Perth Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

79%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Civil & Infrastructure EngineeringEnvironmental & Sustainability ServicesFleet Management & OperationsHardware & Semiconductor EngineeringLogistics & Warehouse ManagementMidstream Operations & Energy LogisticsProject & Construction ManagementQuality Control & AssuranceRenewable Energy (Solar & Wind)Research & Product Development

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Acwa Operations

Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO)

BHP

Botswana Power Corporation

Cementation Africa

Chevron

Debswana Diamond Company

Energy Queensland

Why Study Professional Certificate of Competency in IEC 61850 Based Substation Automation at Engineering Institute of Technology

What makes this program stand out

May 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in May 2027

Life at Engineering Institute of Technology in Australia

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Professional Certificate of Competency in IEC 61850 Based Substation Automation at Engineering Institute of Technology

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during breaks without needing a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Students must meet minimum IELTS requirements: a listening score of 5.0, overall score of 5.5, and reading, speaking, and writing scores of 5.0 each.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Job titles include Substation Engineer, Automation Technician, Power System Analyst, and Electrical Engineer.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course covers the techniques for applying IEC 61850 to substation automation and hydropower plants. You'll also learn about core substation architectures and the latest developments in automation.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake for this course is in May. Ensure you apply ahead of the deadline to secure your spot.
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