Automation and Robotics Foundations

Start Your Career in Automation and Robotics

Ready to start a hands-on career in one of today's fastest growing technical fields? Riverland's Automation and Robotics Foundations Certificate gives you real skills in electronics, automated systems, and robotics in just one semester. No experience required.

Whether you are a recent high school graduate exploring a technical career or an adult learner ready for a change, this certificate is a quick, affordable way to find out if automation and robotics is the right fit for you, and to start building skills employers are looking for right now.

Common Questions About This Certificate

What will I learn?

In one semester, you will build a foundation across five core areas:

• Mechatronic Systems: how mechanical, electrical, and computer systems work together in modern equipment
• Electronics: the basics of circuits, wiring, and electronic components
• Industrial Automation and Control Systems: how factories and facilities use automated controls to run efficiently
• Introduction to Robotics: how robots are programmed, operated, and used on the job
• Robotics Safety and Ethics: how to work safely around automated equipment and use robotics responsibly

What jobs can this lead to?

The skills you build here are used across manufacturing, healthcare equipment, agriculture, and other industries that rely on automated systems.

Most employers in this field accept a postsecondary certificate or associate degree as your entry point, which means this certificate puts you on the right track from day one. As you gain experience, top earners in this field make more than $109,580 a year, showing real room to grow your pay over time.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians (May 2024 data). 

Most employers in this field accept a postsecondary certificate or associate degree as your entry point, which means this certificate puts you on the right track from day one. From here, many graduates go on to add more credentials and increase their pay as they gain experience.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians (May 2024 data).

How long will it take, and can I work while I'm in school?

This certificate is 16 credits, about one semester of full-time study, and you can also take it part-time if that fits your schedule better. If you would like to earn money while you learn, ask about the Learn and Earn option, which combines coursework with paid, hands-on experience.

Do I need any experience with electronics or robotics?

No. This certificate is built for students just starting out. You do not need any background in electronics, automation, or robotics to enroll.

What can I do after I finish this certificate?

This certificate gives you real, job-ready skills on its own. If you want to keep building your training, it can lead into Riverland's Automation Robotics Occupational Technology Certificate for more advanced coursework.

Is help available to pay for this program?

Yes. Riverland offers scholarships for students in the Automation and Robotics Foundations Certificate. View current scholarship opportunities and deadlines.