Electronics and Industrial Controls | Williston State College

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Electronics and Industrial Controls

Electronics and Industrial Controls

Associate in Applied Science (AAS)

Minimum required credits: 62
AAS Student Education Plan (SEP)
Program Description
The Electronics and Industrial Controls Associate in Applied Science (AAS) program at Williston State College equips students with the technical expertise required to excel in industries such as energy, manufacturing, and agriculture. The curriculum focuses on the development, installation, calibration, programming, and maintenance of automated systems, preparing graduates for dynamic roles in today's technologically advanced sectors.
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What You'll Learn
  • Electrical and Electronic Systems: Gain a solid foundation in electric circuitry, power systems, and electronic instrumentation, essential for understanding and working with modern industrial equipment.

  • Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs): Learn to program, troubleshoot, and maintain PLCs, which are pivotal in automating industrial processes.

  • Control Systems and Automation: Develop skills in managing electric, hydraulic, and pneumatic control systems, as well as integrating actuator and sensor systems for efficient industrial operations.

  • Process Control and Mechatronics: Understand the principles of process control and the interdisciplinary field of mechatronics, combining mechanical, electronic, and software engineering to design and operate automated systems.

  • Field Device Networks and SCADA Systems: Explore the networking of field devices and the use of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems for real-time monitoring and control of industrial processes.

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Course Requirements

To earn the AAS degree in Electronics and Industrial Controls, students must complete a minimum of 62 credits, including general education courses and the following program-specific courses:

  • CIS 164 | Networking Fundamentals I | 3 credits
  • PTLO 135 | Hydraulics & Pneumatics | 3 credits
  • TECH 101 | Introduction to Technical Concepts | 3 credits
  • TECH 103 | DC Circuits | 3 credits
  • TECH 104 | AC Circuits | 3 credits
  • TECH 105 | Electronics & Instrumentation | 3 credits
  • TECH 107 | Digital Fundamentals | 3 credits
  • TECH 130 | Electric Motor Control | 3 credits
  • TECH 143 | Programmable Controllers I | 3 credits
  • TECH 145 | Programmable Controllers II | 3 credits
  • TECH 200 | Field Device Networks | 3 credits
  • TECH 210 | Process Control I | 3 credits
  • TECH 212 | Process Control II | 3 credits
  • TECH 215 | SCADA & Process Visualization | 3 credits
  • TECH 220 | Control System Installation & Troubleshooting | 3 credits
  • COOP 197 | Cooperative Education/Internship | 3 credits

View course descriptions.
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Possible Career Paths & Salary Ranges

Career Pathways and Salaries

Graduates of the Electronics and Industrial Controls program are prepared for various technical positions across multiple industries. Potential career paths include:

  1. Industrial Electronics Technician

    • Role: Install, maintain, and repair electronic equipment used in industrial settings.
    • Average Salary: $55,000 per year
  2. Automation Technician

    • Role: Develop and maintain automated systems to enhance manufacturing processes.
    • Average Salary: $60,000 per year
  3. Instrumentation and Control Technician

    • Role: Calibrate and repair instruments that monitor and control engineering systems.
    • Average Salary: $58,000 per year
  4. PLC Programmer

    • Role: Design and implement programs for programmable logic controllers to automate industrial tasks.
    • Average Salary: $65,000 per year
  5. Maintenance Electrician

    • Role: Ensure the proper functioning of electrical systems within industrial facilities.
    • Average Salary: $52,000 per year
  6. Field Service Technician

    • Role: Provide on-site support and maintenance for industrial control systems.
    • Average Salary: $57,000 per year

Opportunities for Advancement

With experience and additional certifications, such as those from the International Society of Automation (ISA), graduates can progress to roles like Automation Engineer or Control Systems Manager, which offer increased responsibilities and higher earning potential.

Note: Salary figures are approximate and can vary based on location, experience, and industry demand.

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Estimated Cost of Attendance
Estimated Cost of Attendance On Campus Estimated Cost of Attendance Off Campus Off Campus with Parent
$19,375 $22,987 $14,369
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