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Program Overview
The Industrial Automation – PLC and Controls 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.
Hands-On Learning
Build skills through interactive courses in PLC programming, sensors, conveyors, troubleshooting, and safety systems.
Study topics such as integration of PLCs, VFDs, and human-machine interfaces (HMI), preparing you for the technology shaping the future of manufacturing.
Career-Ready Skills
Gain expertise in troubleshooting, maintenance, and automation systems while learning teamwork and communication, making you a top candidate for employers in the industry.
Get Started
For more information regarding the 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 - PLC and Controls Certificate can attend full or part-time and classes are offered at the Madison College Truax campus.
Flexible Scheduling
You can begin the Industrial Automation - PLC and controls certificate in the fall or spring.
Need to take classes during the day? Start in the fall. Classes are held between 7:30 am and 2:30 pm, four days a week.
Interested in evening classes? Begin in the spring. Classes start at 3:30 pm and end by 9:30 pm, five days a week.
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Curriculum and Experience
Prospective program students, the information below reflects the basic requirements for students admitted for the 2025-2026 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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Admission
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 – Join the Waiting List
This certificate is in transition to assess capacity and enrollment availability for the 2026-2027 academic year. Beginning Fall 2026, all qualified applicants will be placed on a waiting list.
- 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: To be determined
- Notification Timeline: Students on the waiting list will be notified in March 2026 about available spots. Those who remain on the list will also receive an update on their estimated wait times.
Submitting your application now ensures you're considered as soon as space becomes available.
Learn more about waiting lists in the Waiting List section below.
Application Dates
Fall 2025
- Application open
- Application completion deadline is October 15, 2025
Spring 2026
- Application available on September 15, 2025
- Application completion deadline is March 15, 2026
Fall 2026
- Application available on September 15, 2025
- Application completion deadline is August 31, 2026
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.
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 - PLC and Controls career.
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Waiting List
This program uses a waiting list to manage program admission due to capacity limitations and high program demand. This means there are typically more applicants than there are open seats in the program.
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 program.
You may remain on the waiting list if you continue to follow the steps to notify Madison College of your continued interest.
Questions?
Contact Enrollment Services at enrollmentservices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
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Career Outcomes
By taking the Industrial Automation – PLCs and Control, you will be able to:
- Understand basic industrial components and electrical circuits
- Connect to industrial PLCs
- Monitor and create new PLC programs
- Interface PLCs with VFDs
- Create and edit HMI programs
