Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Industrial Automation 

This programme is well suited to students who are curious about how machines, systems, and technologies interact in real industrial settings. If you are interested in problem-solving, designing systems, working with technology, and understanding how automated processes improve efficiency and safety, this degree offers a clear pathway into the profession.

It is an ideal choice for those seeking a future-focused engineering qualification that supports career progression, professional development, and further study in automation, robotics, and advanced industrial systems.

The programme is composed of 22 modules and one capstone Project Thesis. These Module cover a range of aspects to provide you with maximum practical coverage in the field of Industrial Automation.

This programme combines practical, industry-relevant learning with ECT’s distinctive online delivery methodology. Designed to be interactive and globally connected, it ensures you develop both technical expertise and real-world skills.

You will gain hands-on experience using industry-standard simulation software and real engineering equipment through ECT’s Virtual and Remote Laboratories, accessible from anywhere in the world.

Teaching blends pre-recorded lectures, which you can study at your own pace, with live interactive tutorials led by industry-experienced lecturers. Dedicated Learning Support Officers provide ongoing guidance throughout your studies.

Where Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) does not apply, students complete three in-person mandatory workshops and one virtual workshop across the programme. These one-week sessions provide essential hands-on competencies and may require travel to an ECT or EIT campus. In addition, all students must complete 240 hours of approved engineering workplace experience to meet the practical requirements of the degree.

Learn more here.

You will be assessed through a combination of coursework and examinations designed to develop both your theoretical understanding and practical engineering skills. Coursework may include technical reports, design projects, simulation and modelling activities, virtual laboratory-based tasks, programming assignments, case studies, and presentations. Examinations and time-limited assessments are used where appropriate to evaluate your understanding of engineering principles and your ability to apply them to real-world problems. The variety of assessments used are derived from industry experts which are designed to equip you with the skills the industry is looking for.

In the final stage of the programme, you will undertake a substantial engineering project that enables you to integrate knowledge and skills gained throughout your studies and address a practical engineering challenge.

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 modules and programme reviews, software may change from the list provided. 

Graduates of this programme will be able to demonstrate the following learning outcomes:

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.

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.

Students studying on a full-time basis are expected to complete their programme over 3 years, and those enrolled on a part-time basis over 6 years.

Please note (UK students): If you’re applying for this course on a part-time basis, it is delivered at 50% intensity of the equivalent full-time programme. This meets the eligibility criteria for a Tuition Fee Loan from the Student Loans Company.

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

One of the following Level 3 qualifications (or equivalent):

• 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).
• T Level (Engineering): Merit overall, including relevant Maths and Physics content.
• 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.

Level 2 Requirements:

• GCSEs – English Language and Mathematics at grade C or 4.
• 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 a full list of entry requirements by country, please visit our Admissions page. All applications will be considered on a case by case basis and are subject to Admissions Committee approval.

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 UK 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 UK 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.

In according with UK consumer protection law, students have a cooling off period during which they can change their mind, withdraw from their programme and cancel their contract. This period starts when they receive their offer and ends 14 calendar days from the date of enrolment. 

If a student cancels within this period, they will not be able to be liable for any tuition fees and will receive a full refund of any fees already paid.