Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Industrial Automation 

Course Duration
Duration
  • 3 Years Full-Time *
Course Study
Study Mode
  • Online
Course Location
Location
  • Online
Course Code
Course Code
BEng(IA)
Course Intakes
Intakes
  • 22 September 2025
  • 16 February 2026
Course Type
Course Type
  • Bachelor’s Degree
Course Fees
Fees

Industrial Automation Engineering is a rapidly growing discipline with a significant impact across various industries, including manufacturing, power generation, mechatronics, mechanical systems, mining and chemical processing. This hands-on degree equips you with the technical expertise and problem-solving skills required to design, develop and manage automation systems.

The key advantages:

  • Flexibility: Study remotely, using a supported online platform that accommodates full-time work.
  • Innovative Learning: Access cutting-edge programmes via innovative online tools, including remote labs and simulation software.
  • Global Expertise: Learn from and interact with engineering subject experts; gain a global industry perspective from both local and international lecturers.
  • Practical Knowledge and Skills: Acquire theoretical knowledge and develop hands-on experience.
  • Career Growth: Unlock new career opportunities and boost your earning potential.
  • International Networking: Connect with a diverse community of students from around the globe.
  • Dedicated Support: Share your study journey with your Learning Support Officers; they will guide and nurture you from on-boarding to graduation.

Programme Overview

As technology rapidly evolves, industrial processes are becoming increasingly automated. Systems that once relied on human intervention are now powered by computerised control systems, offering enhanced accuracy, precision and cost effectiveness. With the continuous advancement of industrial automation, it is crucial for aspiring engineers to graduate with skills directly applicable to the industry. This degree equips you with cutting edge skills that are highly valued in the workplace.

Through this programme, you will gain practical experience in instrumentation, process control and industrial automation, focusing on cutting-edge technologies that drive modern industry. By integrating theoretical knowledge with real world applications, this degree ensures you graduate as a job ready engineering professional, prepared to meet the demands of automation and smart manufacturing in an evolving global economy.

You will also gain a strong foundation in engineering principles while becoming a skilled industrial automation professional, prepared for the demands of the field.

The general aims are to enable graduates to:

  • Design and Optimise Automation Systems: Create cutting-edge robotic and control solutions to boost efficiency, safety, and productivity across industries.
  • Apply Control Systems Engineering: Engineer and analyse complex control systems, ensuring they meet performance, safety, and regulatory standards.
  • Work with Robotics and Mechatronics: Integrate robotics and mechanical systems to automate processes, reducing costs and enhancing operational efficiency.
  • Implement Process Automation Solutions: Streamline workflows and enhance production quality by deploying advanced automation tools.
  • Develop Embedded Systems and Software: Design software and real-time embedded systems for controlling automated machinery and managing data flows.
  • Solve Complex Engineering Problems: Troubleshoot and optimise automation systems for better performance, cost-effectiveness, and reliability.
  • Collaborate Across Disciplines: Work seamlessly with engineers from electrical, mechanical, and computer disciplines to create integrated solutions.
  • Manage Automation Projects: Lead or contribute to automation projects, ensuring they meet industry standards, timelines, and budgets.
  • Ensure Sustainability and Safety: Design systems with a focus on environmental sustainability and high safety standards.
  • Pursue Further Study or Research: Lay the foundation for advanced research or study in automation, AI, robotics, or industrial systems.

These skills position you to drive innovation and transformation in the thriving field of industrial automation, opening doors to dynamic career opportunities.

The programme is composed of 23 Modules. These Module cover a range of aspects to provide you with maximum practical coverage in the field of Industrial Automation.

Year One

 Module Codes Modules Credit
BENG401 Engineering Mathematics 1 15
BENG402 Electrical Circuit Theory and Analysis 15
BENG403 Engineering Physics and Materials 15
BENG404 Engineering Ethics and Professional Practice 15
BENG405 Engineering Mathematics 2 15
BENG406 Engineering Programming 15
BEIA411 Industrial Instrumentation and Control 15
BEIA412 Ancillary Support Systems 15

Year Two

 Module Codes Modules Credit
BENG501 Engineering Mathematics 3 15
BENG502 Engineering Management 15
BENG503 Communications and Networks 15
BENG504 Analysis and Modelling of Industrial Control Systems 15
BEIA511 Introduction to Programmable Logic Controllers 15
BEIA512 Modern Industrial Communication Systems and Protocols 15
BEIA513 Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence 15
BEIA514 Embedded System Design 15

Year Three

Module Codes Modules Credit
BEIA611 Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition Systems 15
BEIA612 Lifecycle of an Industrial Automation Project 15
BEIA613 Safety Systems Engineering 15
TBC Elective Module 1* 15
TBC Elective Module 2* 15
BENG601 Technology, Sustainability and Society 15
BENG600 Engineering Capstone Project 30
Module Codes Elective Modules Credit
BEEE613 Big Data Analytics in Electricity Grids 15
ELEC621 Power Electronics and Industrial Drives 15
ELEC622 Industrial Robotics and Mechatronics 15
ELEC623 IT/OT Cyber Security 15

Additional Mandatory Modules

 Module Codes Modules Credit
PRAC001 Hands-on Workshop 1 0
PRAC002 Hands-on Workshop 2 0
PRAC003 Hands-on Workshop 3 0
PRAC004 Hands-on Workshop 4 0
INDX005 Industrial Experience 0

Total Credits = 360

Graduates of this programme will develop knowledge and skills aligned with internationally recognised engineering graduate attributes. The curriculum is designed to support pathways toward professional registration, including opportunities for further learning and career development.

Graduates will be able to:

  1. Apply concepts, theories and techniques of the relevant natural and physical sciences and the engineering fundamentals applicable to industrial automation engineering.
  2. Integrate conceptual understanding of mathematics, numerical analysis, and computer and information sciences with breath of knowledge, skills and in-depth understanding within the industrial automation engineering discipline.
  3. Exhibit expertise and professional judgement in engineering design practice which acknowledges contextual and industry specific factors, including risk management, security and statutory compliance. Adapt theoretical knowledge applicable to the discipline and propose innovative and sustainable engineering practices.
  4. Apply advanced technical knowledge and appropriate tools alongside established engineering methods to solve complex engineering problems.
  5. Apply engineering design and project management tools and methodologies to assess, mitigate, and manage risks, ensuring safety, security and ethical compliance in engineering practice underpinned by technical knowledge to systematically design and synthesise assigned project activities in a team environment.
  6. Apply professional ethics and accountabilities in their engineering practice and will commit to ongoing professional development and lifelong learning.
  7. Critically evaluate both sources and the validity of information; manage information effectively through clear verbal and written communication to accomplish a set of common goals and objectives in a multi-disciplinary engineering team.
  8. Draw from established engineering concepts, methods and industry standards to develop creative, innovative solutions to complex engineering problems by completing a capstone project in industrial automation engineering.
  9. Demonstrate pro-active demeanor, self-management, professional conduct and leadership befitting professional engineering technologists, individually and in teams, via professional and industry exposure practice.

A level*: At least three A Levels, including Mathematics and a science subject (Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science/Computing, Design and Technology or Electronics).
Access to HE Diploma: Pass with 60 credits overall, including at least 45 credits at Level 3, with a minimum of 24 credits at Merit or above. These credits should include Mathematics and Physics which are required (112 UCAS points).
BTEC National Extended Diploma*: A qualification in Engineering or a related subject, (such as Aerospace / Aeronautical / Electrical / Electronic / Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering,) will be considered. The program requires a minimum of Distinction, Merit, Merit (DMM), or Merit, Merit, Merit (MMM).
Foundation Year: Applications from students who have successfully completed an Engineering foundation year or a foundation course containing Mathematics and a Physical Science with an average of at least 55% will also be considered.
*GCSEs – English Language and Mathematics at grade C or 4.
T Level – M: Including Maths and Physics. T Level in Engineering accepted.
BEng UCAS tariff points: 112
English language requirement for this course:

  • Academic IELTS of 6.0 overall, with no element below 5.5.
  • TOEFL iBT: 80 overall, with minimum scores of listening 17, writing 19, reading 18 and speaking 20. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted
  • Pearson PTE: 60 overall, with no component below 59

For full current fees in your country go to the drop-down filter at the top of this programme page or visit the Fees page here.

Payment Methods

Learn more about payment methods, including payment terms & conditions and additional non-tuition fees on the Fees page here .

 

The Higher Education and Research Act (HERA) 2017 requires all higher education providers in England to register with the Office for Students (OfS). As a registered provider, with UKPRN: 10089771, we demonstrate our commitment to complying with the regulatory standards set for higher education institutions in England. Our degrees are designed to meet the highest standards of academic quality and rigour, ensuring they align with industry demands and enhance your career prospects. Upon completion, our students will gain an internationally recognised qualification that meets the required UK national educational frameworks.

ECT is also a member of the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA), the UK’s independent quality body for higher education. This membership demonstrates our ongoing commitment to maintaining and enhancing academic quality and standards.

Graduates of this degree can get involved in a wide range of exciting and rewarding career opportunities across various industries. The increasing adoption of automation, robotics, and advanced control systems in industries such as manufacturing, energy, transportation, and logistics has created a strong demand for skilled professionals.

Potential job roles include engineering and management positions in the following areas of expertise:

  • Process control, commissioning and production management
  • Plant, factory and building automation
  • Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Distributed Control Systems (DCSs) and SCADA
  • Industrial design and consultation
  • Supply chain management, quality assurance, and sales
  • Operations, maintenance, field services, and technical support
  • Controls, instrumentation, and robotics
  • Automation, IIoT, Cybersecurity for industrial systems
  • AI and machine learning

This programme may use the following software:

  • Desmos online calculator
  • National Instruments ELVISmx Instrument Launcher
  • National Instruments Multisim
  • LTSpice – free SPICE simulator software
  • SolidWorks
  • MATLAB/SIMULINK
  • Python Jupyter Notebook or Google Colab
  • Codesys & RSLogix 5000
  • Pytorch
  • KNIME
  • Apache Mahout
  • SCILAB
  • PlantSCADA
  • Exostructure
  • Citect SCADA,
  • OSHA’s Hazard Identification Training Tool
  • WEKA
  • R
  • PSIM

Due to ongoing unit and course reviews, software may change from the list provided. 

The time commitment for each programme varies based on students’ prior knowledge, experience, and the specific module. Typically, a part-time student would expect to spend 10-15 hours per week. A full-time student would expect to spend 25-30 hours per week. This includes self-study, pre-recorded lectures, live webinars, tutorials, and assessments.

Any student has a right to appeal a decision of the Engineering College of Technology (ECT). ECT has a comprehensive policy and procedures to assist students.

The withdrawal date is set four weeks after the official start date of each intake. It is a key deadline for students who wish to drop a module without academic or financial penalties.

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