Program Outline

This hybrid (live video and online) Process Instrumentation and Control Certificate program, consisting of three courses, is geared toward individuals looking to enter or move up within the field of automation. This program will also help attendees better manage employees working in this technology field. Read more information about the complete program outline and the course instructor.

The mode of instruction for all three courses in the series is web-based; the suggested pace is one topic per week with a two-week allowance for the final. Completing the three courses with a “C” average (70%) or better will earn a Penn State Certificate and 15 continuing education units.

Career Potential

This program is built for engineers, technicians, and technologists to gain an understanding of the field of process automation. Many industries utilize automation, including petrochemicals, nuclear, specialty and bulk chemicals, paints, films, power generation, automotive, breweries, rotating machinery and turbines, municipal and industrial waste incineration, coal handling, and steel.

Cost: $895 if registration is done separately; $2,485 if you register for all three courses at once.*

* Please contact the Community and Workforce Programs office to register for all three courses and receive the discount.

Course Descriptions

Sensors and Symbology

Dates: May 12–July 11, 2025
Time: 7:00–8:00 p.m.
Instruction Mode: Zoom Live Video Instruction

  • Welcome and Test Connections
  • Introduction
  • Identification Symbols
  • Analyzer Systems
  • Flow Measurement
  • Level Measurement
  • Pressure and Temperature Measurement
  • Online Exam

Register for Sensors & Symbology

Control Functions

Dates: July 21–September 12, 2025
Time: 7:00–8:00 p.m.
Instruction Mode: Zoom Live Video Instruction

  • Control Loops
  • Programmable Electronic Systems
  • Alarm and Trip Systems
  • Control Centers and Enclosures
  • Control Valves
  • Online Exam

Register for Control Function

Installation and Engineering Functions

Dates: September 22–November 14, 2025
Time: 7:00–8:00 p.m.
Instruction Mode: Zoom Live Video Instruction
Prerequisites: Sensors and Symbology and Control Functions

  • Engineering Design and Documentation - Part 1
  • Engineering Design and Documentation - Part 2
  • Installation
  • Project Implementation and Management
  • Decision Making
  • Online Exam

Register for installation and engineering functions

Want to learn more about our Process Instrumentation and Control Certificate? Email Carleen Orlando at [email protected].