PLCs Control & Scada - Introduction to - Cork
The course is designed to meet the industry skills shortage in the area of PLC based automation and to provide the fundamental skills required by a learner.
| Award Name | Minor Certificate (Level 6 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Minor |
| Awarding Body | Munster Technological University |
| NFQ Level | Level 6 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minor Certificate (Level 6 NFQ) | Minor | Munster Technological University | Level 6 NFQ |
Duration
1 year, part-time, blended.
Semester 1 (Sept - Dec)
Mondays - PHYS6052 Intro PLC Digital Automation
Tuesdays - PHYS6053 Intro PLC Analog Automation
Semester 2 (Jan - May)
Mondays - PHYS6055 Intro PLC SCADA
Fridays - PHYS6054 Intro PLC Kinematic Systems
(4-10pm, every 2nd week)
Entry Requirements
Target learners on this programme will include those who wish to reactivate their careers to upskill and reskill, or cross-skill from non-related disciplines, as well as upskill those already in employment in related industrial sectors. While there will not be a specific qualification requirement, there is an expectation that candidates will have obtained a minimum of Junior Certificate Level (NFQ-QQI level 3). Experience in related industrial sectors would be beneficial for the student.
Applicants will be assessed individually on a case-by-case basis.
What is RPL?
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is when formal recognition is given for what you already know prior to starting on a programme or module. With recognition of prior learning the focus is on learning and not on experience as such. You can apply for RPL in any MTU accredited programme or module. Programmes which are accredited by professional bodies or any external awarding bodies may have their own procedures for RPL which you should refer to. Go to https://www.mtu.ie/admissions/undergraduate/recognition-of-prior-learning/
Careers / Further progression
Progression
On successful completion of this course, graduates will be eligible to continue their studies on:
1. The Level 6 120 ECTS credit
2. The level 7 20 ECTS credit Special Purpose Award
Further information
Start Date: 14th September 2026.
MTU Bishopstown Campus, Cork, Online
€375 per 5-credit module
Please note:
• Applicants will be required to pay an acceptance fee of €375 online if a place on a course is offered. This fee is deductible from the overall course fee.
• You will not be charged for applying for the programme by clicking the 'apply now' button, you are only asked to pay an acceptance fee if a place is offered to you, and you wish to accept it.
• Course fees may be subject to an annual increase.
Application Deadline: 14th September 2026.
To apply go to "Application Weblink" above.
Overview
The course is designed to meet the industry skills shortage in the area of PLC based automation and to provide the fundamental skills required by a learner and thus provides an opportunity for:
• companies to sponsor their employees whilst they upskill
or
• allow people who are currently unemployed due to the current Covid-19 pandemic to reactivate their career to upskill, reskill and cross-skill from non-related disciplines.
Award
Special Purpose Award, Certificate in Introduction in PLC Based Automation Systems (20 ECTS, Level 6, on the National Framework of Qualification).
Modules:
The 4 modules that make up this special purpose award cover the fundamental introductory skills required for a learner to be able to interact with PLC based automation.
• Introduction to PLC Digital Automation
• Introduction to PLC Analog Automation
• Introduction to PLC SCADA
• Introduction to PLC Kinematic Systems
Conor O’Farrell
Email: conor.ofarrell@mtu.ie