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Program Overview
The Industrial Automation Comprehensive certificate offers in-depth training in programming and troubleshooting Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and industrial control systems. Targeted at professionals in manufacturing, automation, or industrial settings, and recent engineering graduates without hands-on experience, this certificate provides essential skills to program, maintain, and optimize automated control systems. Gain experience with real-world applications of PLCs, the backbone of automated manufacturing, and develop the critical skills needed to increase efficiency and minimize downtime in production environments. This certificate will make you an asset in industries like food processing, appliance, and industrial equipment manufacturing.
As a student in the Industrial Automation - Comprehensive program, you will:
- Expand your skills and knowledge in automation and process control industries.
- Receive hands-on training in programmable logic controllers (PLC).
Get Started
For more information regarding Industrial Automation programs, please contact Program Director Craig Peterson at cwpeterson1@madisoncollege.edu or 608.616.3325 to begin exploring your future.
Program Details
Students in the Industrial Automation - Comprehensive can attend full or part-time.
The program is typically completed in 2 years. However, it can be finished in less than 1 year with full-time attendance, a combination of day and evening classes, and approval from the program director.
Industrial Automation - Comprehensive program classes are offered at the Madison College Truax campus.
Careers
Earning your Certificate in Industrial Automation - Comprehensive at Madison Area Technical College prepares you for valuable work as:
- Automation Engineer
- Maintenance Supervisor
- Technical Service Engineer
- Controls Engineer
- Robotics Engineer
- PLC Programmer
… and more!
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Curriculum and Experience
Prospective program students, the information below reflects the basic requirements for students admitted for the 2026-2027 academic year. To learn more about Madison College, visit us.
Current and newly admitted program students, go directly to your Degree Progress Report to view:
- Progress toward your specific requirements
- Alternative (in lieu of) courses to meet specific requirements
If you have questions after reviewing your degree progress report (advisement report), please see Advising Services.
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How to Apply
Earning a certificate is a great way to expand your skill set and add professionalism to your resume. Applications are always open, so apply today!
If you are an international student and want to apply to Madison College, or transfer your F-1 student visa here, check program availability and then complete the International Admission Process.
Apply Now – Limited Seats Available!
This certificate has limited capacity and may reach maximum enrollment quickly. Applying early gives you the best chance of securing a spot.
- Certificate capacity: 50 spots each Fall and 5 spots each Spring. It shares this capacity with other programs that have a similar curriculum.
- Estimated Wait Time: No estimated wait time
Submitting your application now ensures you're considered as soon as space becomes available. If the certificate reaches capacity, a waiting list will be used to manage additional qualified applicants.
Learn more in the After You Apply section on this page.
Application Dates
Fall 2026
- Application open
- Application completion deadline is August 31, 2026
Spring 2027
- Application open
- Application completion deadline is January 15, 2027
Fall 2027
- Application available on October 15, 2026
- Application completion deadline is August 31, 2027
Admission Requirements
All materials must be submitted by the application deadline.
1. Admission Application
The online application allows you to save your work as you complete it and ensures fast, secure delivery to our office.
2. Educational Background and/or Industry Experience
To ensure that all candidates meet the eligibility criteria, applicants must submit the following documentation:
Official Transcripts:
Submit official transcripts to Enrollment Services from previous technical schools, colleges, or universities attended. Transcripts must show the completion of relevant technical coursework in manufacturing, robotics, controls, or electrical systems. Once submitted, email cwpeterson1@madisoncollege.edu.
Industry Certifications (if applicable):
Submit copies of any industry-recognized certifications related to automation, robotics, controls, engineering, physical sciences, or electrical systems (e.g., PLC programming, Robot programming, MSSC, NC3, SACA, OSHA safety certifications, etc.) to cwpeterson1@madisoncollege.edu.
Apprenticeship Completion Certificates (if applicable):
Submit documentation proving the successful completion of a registered apprenticeship program in a relevant trade (e.g., industrial maintenance, electrical, Mechatronics, or similar fields) to cwpeterson1@madisoncollege.edu.
Program Admission Approval
All submitted documentation will be reviewed by the program director to ensure that the application meets the necessary educational and/or industry experience requirements.
3. Residency Requirement
Per Wisconsin Statute TCS-10 because this certificate has a limited capacity:
- Non-district state residents
- May only be considered after January 1 for the upcoming fall term
- *Minnesota residents are considered non-district state residents for admission purposes
- Out-of-state residents (except Minnesota residents*) are offered a place in the certificate after district and state residents, if there are still spots available. Acceptance into the certificate is on hold until a month before the semester begins to determine if there is space in the certificate. Out-of-state residents are not eligible for admission to a certificate that has a waiting list.
Additional Notes
Certificate programs are not eligible for financial aid.
Individual courses may have prerequisites to enroll. Admission into a certificate or waiting list does not guarantee eligibility to enroll in courses. See the Curriculum section for the list of courses for the certificate.
After Acceptance
Once you are admitted into your certificate, review the Start of Semester Checklist to prepare for your first day of classes at Madison College.
Questions?
Contact the Enrollment Center at enrollmentservices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
Get Started!
Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your Industrial Automation - Comprehensive career.
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After You Apply
This certificate uses a waiting list to manage certificate admission due to capacity limitations and high certificate demand. This means there are typically more applicants than there are open seats in the certificate.
A waiting list helps us manage applications in a way that is fair and transparent.
- Students on the waiting list receive priority in future terms based on the date they complete all application requirements.
- Priority does not guarantee a spot in the certificate.
- You may remain on the waiting list if you continue to follow the steps to notify Madison College of your continued interest.
Learn more about waiting lists on the Admission to Programs with Limited Capacity page.
Questions?
Contact Enrollment Services at enrollmentservices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
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Career Outcomes
Madison College Industrial Automation - Comprehensive Certificate graduates are prepared to:
Life Long Learning
- Assume responsibility for continuing education in order to maintain skills and enhance professional growth.
Technical Skills
- Assemble, install, troubleshoot and diagnose mechanical equipment, electrical, electronic controlled production machines and hydraulic pneumatic systems.
- Diagnose complex problems using interdisciplinary technical skills.
Employability
- Demonstrate work ethics and reliable behavior, including but not limited to assuming responsibility for decisions and actions, utilizing time and stress management skills, displaying initiative, creativity and logical thinking.
