Professional Certificate of Competency in Instrumentation, Automation & Process Control

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

Course Overview

The Professional Certificate of Competency in Instrumentation, Automation & Process Control from the Engineering Institute of Technology is designed for engineers and technicians aiming to master the selection, installation, and commissioning of industrial instrumentation and control valves. You will explore critical concepts in pressure, level, temperature, and flow measurement, alongside essential elements like HMI, SCADA, and DCS systems. This online certificate equips you with practical knowledge to enhance process efficiency and safety, making it ideal for professionals seeking to advance their expertise in modern industrial control.

This part-time online certificate is studied over 3 months, with each module building upon the last to provide a comprehensive understanding of process control. You will delve into topics such as PID tuning rules, HAZOP studies, and the latest ISO requirements, gaining hands-on insight through practical examples and case studies. The course culminates in a solid grasp of integrating and managing complex automation systems, preparing you to confidently apply your skills in real-world industrial environments and contribute effectively to operational excellence.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This certificate program provides a comprehensive overview of instrumentation, automation, and process control systems. You will explore fundamental concepts, including measurement principles for pressure, level, temperature, and flow, as well as the selection and application of control valves. The curriculum also covers basic control philosophies, system integration, modern trends, and the introduction to Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), SCADA, and Distributed Control Systems (DCS). Additionally, the program delves into essential aspects like system safety, reliability, and design considerations.

1 Module 1: Introduction, Basic Terms and Definitions

Basis measurement and control concepts
Basic performance terms and conditions
Advanced performance terms and conditions
Definitions

2 Module 2: Diagrams and Numbering

P & ID symbols
Selection criteria
Typical applications

3 Module 3: Pressure Measurement

Principles of pressure measurement
Pressure sources
Mechanical transducers and elements
Electrical transducers and elements
Installation considerations
Impact on the overall control loop
Selection tables
Future pressure technologies

4 Module 4: Level Measurement

Principles of level measurement
Simple sight glasses and gauging rods
Buoyancy tape systems
Hydrostatic pressure
Ultrasonic measurement
Radar measurement
Vibration switches
Radiation measurement
Electrical measurement
Density measurement
Future level technologies

5 Module 5: Temperature Measurement

Principles of temperature measurement
Thermocouples
Resistance temperature detectors (RTDs)
Thermistors
Liquid-in-glass, filled and bimetallic
Non-contact pyrometers
Humidity
Installation considerations
Impact on the overall control loop
Selection tables
Future temperature technologies

6 Module 6: Flow and Mass Measurement

Principle of flow measurement
Differential pressure flowmeters
Open channel flow measurement
Variable area flowmeters
Oscillatory flow measurement
Magnetic flowmeters
Positive displacement
Ultrasonic flow measurement
Mass flowmeters
Installation considerations
Impact on the overall control loop
Selection tables

7 Module 7: Control Valves

Principles of control valves
Sliding stem valves
Rotary valves
Control valve selection and sizing
Control valve characteristics / trim
Control valve noise and cavitation
Actuators and positioners
Valve benchset and stroking
Impact on the overall control loop
Selection tables
Future technologies

8 Module 8: Basic Control Philosophies

Open loops
Closed loops
Feedforward and ration control
Feedback control
Overview of different tuning rules available
Cascade control
Good practice in troubleshooting
Adaptive and self-tuning controllers

9 Module 9: Integration of the System, Modern Trends and Other Process Considerations

Calculation of individual instruments and total error for the system
Selection considerations
Testing and commissioning of subsystems
RS 232, RS 422, RS 423, RS 485, etc.
Fiber optic cables
New smart instruments and fieldbus
Noise and earthing considerations
Materials of construction
Linearisation

10 Module 10: Programmable Logic Controllers Introduction to the PLC

Digital Input / Output Systems
Analog Input / Output Systems
Fundamentals of PLC Programming

11 Module 11: Iso, Hazops, Reliability Centered Maintenance, Spare Parts Analysis, Testing and Panel Design

ISO 9001:2000 in-depth
HAZOP analysis
Reliability centered maintenance and spare parts analysis
Acceptance Testing (FAT and SAT)
Electrical design of assorted panels

12 Module 12: Hmi, Scada & Dcs Systems

System Hardware & Software
Components
Design & layout
Alarms & Reporting

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

Cybersecurity & Network SecurityData Science & AnalyticsEnergy Equipment & ServicesEnvironmental & Sustainability ServicesLogistics & Warehouse ManagementMidstream Operations & Energy LogisticsMining Technology & InnovationPrecious & Base MetalsSoftware Development & EngineeringWireless & Mobile Communications

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 Instrumentation, Automation & Process Control at Engineering Institute of Technology

What makes this program stand out

March 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in March 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 Instrumentation, Automation & Process Control at Engineering Institute of Technology

Can I work while studying?

International students may work up to 48 hours every two weeks during term time and unlimited hours during breaks in Australia. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you need to meet the English language requirements, which include an overall IELTS score of 5.5 and listening, reading, speaking, and writing scores of 5.0.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can work as Instrumentation Engineers, Automation Technicians, Process Control Specialists, Control Engineers, or Maintenance Technicians.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course provides practical knowledge in the selection and commissioning of industrial instrumentation and control valves. It is ideal for engineers and technicians looking to enhance their skills in automation processes.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The course intakes occur in March and June. Ensure you apply before these months to secure your spot.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️