Diploma in Control and Automation Systems
Why this certificate program?
The Diploma in Control and Automation Systems
This program provides you with the essential tools to design, implement, and maintain efficient and safe automated systems. Master key technologies, from PLC and SCADA programming to process control and industrial robotics. Learn to optimize production, reduce costs, and improve quality in various industrial sectors.
Differential Advantages
- Practical Approach: Development of real-world projects and simulations to apply knowledge.
- Specialized Software: Use of industry-leading tools such as Siemens, Allen-Bradley, and Wonderware.
- Case Studies: Analysis of applications in different industries (manufacturing, energy, food, etc.).
- Expert Instructors: Professionals with extensive experience in the implementation of control systems.
- Professional Certification: Recognition of your skills in the field of automation.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Diplomado
- Hours: 800 H
- Start date: 13-06-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Electronic, mechatronic, and control engineers seeking to deepen their knowledge of the implementation of automated systems and optimize industrial processes.
- Maintenance and automation technicians who need to master the programming and configuration of PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems.
- Industry professionals interested in improving the efficiency and safety of their operations through automation.
- Students and recent graduates of engineering programs aspiring to a highly in-demand profile in the industrial sector.
- Production and operations managers who want to implement control solutions to reduce costs and increase productivity.
Flexibility for your Development
Designed for active professionals: live online classes, 24/7 access to on-demand content, and personalized follow-up by experts.
Objectives and competencies
Implement optimized industrial automation solutions:
“Integrating cutting-edge technologies (PLC, SCADA, robotics) to optimize processes, reduce costs and improve operational efficiency, prioritizing safety and regulatory compliance.”
Design and implement advanced control strategies:
“Develop predictive models of the system, implement model-based predictive control (MPC), and optimize performance considering constraints and disturbances.”
Integrate and maintain automated control systems:
Implement preventive and corrective maintenance routines, documenting each intervention and optimizing the response to failures through the analysis of historical data.
Diagnosing and resolving problems in automated systems:
Analyze the root cause, implement technical solutions, and verify their effectiveness in restoring normal system operation.
Manage automation projects from conception to commissioning:
“Define the scope, plan, allocate resources, manage risks and ensure quality, meeting deadlines and budget.”
Select and configure hardware and software components for control systems:
“Ensure compatibility, optimize performance, and guarantee system security by documenting configurations.”
Curriculum - Modules
- Comprehensive Maritime Incident Management: protocols, roles, and chain of command for coordinated response
- Operational Planning and Execution: briefing, routes, weather windows, and go/no-go criteria
- Rapid Risk Assessment: criticality matrix, scene control, and decision-making under pressure
- Operational Communication: VHF/GMDSS, standardized reports, and inter-agency liaison
- Tactical Mobility and Safe Boarding: RHIB maneuvers, approach, mooring, and recovery
- Equipment and Technologies: PPE, signaling, satellite tracking, and field data logging
- Immediate Care of the Affected: primary assessment, hypothermia, trauma, and stabilization for evacuation
- Adverse Environmental Conditions: swell, Visibility, flows, and operational mitigation
Simulation and training: critical scenarios, use of VR/AR, and exercises with performance metrics
Documentation and continuous improvement: lessons learned, indicators (MTTA/MTTR), and SOP updates
- Introduction to PLCs, SCADA, and Industrial Networks: Basic Concepts and Evolution
- PLC Architecture: Components, Operation, and Types of PLCs
- PLC Programming Languages: Ladder, ST, FBD, SFC, IL
- SCADA: Architecture, Functions, Components (HMI, SCADA Server, Database)
- Industrial Networks: Topologies, Protocols (Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP, OPC UA)
- PLC-SCADA Integration: Communication, Variables, Tags, Alarms
- Process Monitoring and Control: Data Acquisition, Visualization, PID Control
- Process Optimization: Data Analysis, Bottleneck Identification, Continuous Improvement
- Industrial Network Security: Vulnerabilities, Threats, and Protection Measures
- Case Studies: Implementation of PLCs, SCADA, and Industrial Networks in Different Industries
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- Introduction to PLCs and SCADA: History, evolution, and industrial applications
- PLC Architectures: Components, types (compact, modular, distributed), and main manufacturers
- Industrial communication protocols: Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP, OPC UA
- SCADA Architectures: Servers, clients, HMI interfaces, databases
- PLC-SCADA integration: Design, configuration, and commissioning of integrated systems
- Security in PLC and SCADA systems: Threats, vulnerabilities, and protection measures
- Redundancy and high availability: Redundancy strategies for PLCs and SCADA
- Advanced monitoring and control: Alarms, trends, and reports and data analysis
- PLC and SCADA system virtualization: Advantages, disadvantages, and virtualization tools
- Case studies: Implementation of PLC and SCADA architectures in different industries
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- Introduction to PLCs: Types, components, and operating principles.
- Basic PLC Programming: Programming languages (Ladder, FBD, ST).
- Sensors and Actuators: Types, characteristics, and connection to PLCs.
- Industrial Communication: Communication protocols (Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP).
- Introduction to SCADA: Architecture, components, and functionalities.
- SCADA Interface Design: Creating screens, alarms, and trends.
- Data Acquisition and Processing: Configuring variables, historical data, and reports.
- Introduction to Industrial Robotics: Types of robots, kinematics, and control systems.
- Basic Programming of Robots: Robot programming languages (ABB RAPID, KUKA KRL).
PLC, SCADA, and robot integration: Case studies and practical applications.
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- Introduction to control systems: open loop vs. Closed Loop
- Feedback Fundamentals: Types, Gains, Stability
- Systems Modeling: Transfer Functions, Block Diagrams
- Proportional (P) Control: Tuning, Offset, Limitations
- Integral (I) Control: Offset Elimination, Response Time
- Derivative (D) Control: Damping, Transient Response
- PID Parameter Tuning: Ziegler-Nichols Methods, Trial and Error
- PID Controller Implementation: Hardware, Software, Discretization
- Introduction to Fuzzy Logic: Fuzzy Sets, Membership Functions
- Fuzzy Rules: AND, OR, Implication, Aggregation
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- System Architecture and Components: Structural design, materials, and subsystems (mechanical, electrical, electronic, and fluid) with selection and assembly criteria for marine environments
- Fundamentals and Principles of Operation: Physical and engineering foundations (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, electricity, control, and materials) that explain performance and operating limits
- Safety and Environmental (SHE): Risk analysis, PPE, LOTO, hazardous atmospheres, spill and waste management, and emergency response plans
- Applicable Regulations and Standards: IMO/ISO/IEC requirements and local regulations;
- Conformance criteria, certification, and best practices for operation and maintenance
- Inspection, testing, and diagnostics: Visual/dimensional inspection, functional testing, data analysis, and predictive techniques (vibration, thermography, fluid analysis) to identify root causes
- Preventive and predictive maintenance: Hourly/cycle/seasonal plans, lubrication, adjustments, calibrations, consumable replacement, post-service verification, and operational reliability
- Instrumentation, tools, and metrology: Measuring and testing equipment, diagnostic software, calibration and traceability; selection criteria, safe use, and storage
- Onboard integration and interfaces: Mechanical, electrical, fluid, and data compatibility; Sealing and watertightness, EMC/EMI, corrosion protection, and interoperability testing.
Quality, acceptance testing, and commissioning: process and materials control, FAT/SAT, bench and sea trials, go/no-go criteria, and evidence documentation.
Technical documentation and integrated practice: logs, checklists, reports, and a complete case study (safety → diagnosis → intervention → verification → report) applicable to any system.
- Introduction to PLCs: History, manufacturers, architectures, and applications.
- PLC Programming: Programming languages (Ladder, FBD, ST, IL, SFC).
- PLC Hardware: CPU, I/O modules (digital, analog), power supplies.
- Industrial Networks: Communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus TCP/IP, etc.).
- SCADA: Introduction, architecture, components (HMI, servers, databases).
- Development of HMI Interfaces: Screen design, alarms, trends, security.
- SCADA Communications: Connection to PLCs and other devices, communication protocols.
- Network Security Industrial Systems: Threats, vulnerabilities, and countermeasures.
PLC and SCADA System Maintenance: Fault diagnosis and troubleshooting.
Practical Projects: Implementation of PLC, SCADA, and industrial network solutions in simulated or real environments.
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Career opportunities
- Automation Engineer: Design, implementation, and maintenance of automated control systems in various industries.
- Control and Automation Technician: Installation, repair, and calibration of control instruments and equipment.
- PLC/SCADA Programmer: Software development for programmable logic control (PLC) systems and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems.
- Robotics Specialist: Programming, maintenance, and operation of industrial robots and robotic systems.
- Control Systems Designer: Creation of plans and schematics for the implementation of control and automation systems.
- Automation Consultant: Advising companies on the implementation of automation solutions to improve efficiency and productivity.
- Technical Sales: Marketing of control equipment and systems. Automation for industrial companies.
- Automation Project Manager: Planning, execution, and supervision of industrial automation projects.
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Admission requirements
Academic/professional profile:
Degree/Bachelor's degree in Nautical Science/Maritime Transport, Naval/Marine Engineering, or a related field; or proven professional experience in bridge/operations.
Language proficiency:
Recommended functional maritime English (SMCP) for simulations and technical materials.
Documentation:
Updated resume, copy of degree or seaman's book, ID card/passport, letter of motivation.
Technical requirements (for online):
Equipment with camera/microphone, stable connection, ≥ 24” monitor recommended for ECDIS/Radar-ARPA.
Admission process and dates
1. Online
application
(form + documents).
2. Academic review and interview
(profile/objectives/schedule compatibility).
3. Admission decision
(+ scholarship proposal if applicable).
4. Reservation of place
(deposit) and registration.
5. Induction
(access to campus, calendars, simulator guides).
Scholarships and grants
- Delve Deeper: Master the principles and technologies of industrial control and automation systems.
- Apply: Learn to design, implement, and maintain efficient and safe automated systems.
- Develop: Acquire skills in PLC, SCADA, instrumentation, and advanced control.
- Boost: Increase your professional competitiveness in a constantly growing sector.
- Transform: Optimize processes, reduce costs, and improve productivity in any industry.
Testimonials
This diploma program provided me with the practical tools and knowledge I needed to lead the redesign of the control system in our plant. Thanks to the application of the techniques I learned, we achieved a 15% reduction in production cycle time and an 8% improvement in energy efficiency, results that were recognized by management and contributed significantly to the company’s objectives.
The Advanced Naval Engineering Diploma provided me with the necessary tools and knowledge to lead the redesign of a propulsion system, resulting in a 12% increase in the fuel efficiency of our fleet and a significant reduction in CO2 emissions, thus validating the investment in my training and positioning me as a technical reference in the company.
This diploma program exceeded my expectations. I gained a solid understanding of PID, PLC, and SCADA control, applying it directly to a final project where we automated an irrigation system, demonstrating the efficiency and precision achieved thanks to the training. The practical component and the focus on current technologies were key to my professional development.
This diploma program provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to design and implement a temperature control system for a chemical reactor at my workplace. Thanks to what I learned, we were able to optimize the process, reducing production time by 15% and minimizing raw material waste, which resulted in significant savings for the company.
Frequently asked questions
Control and automation systems.
Yes. The itinerary includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with harbor, ocean, fog, storm, and SAR scenarios.
Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator/practical placements through agreements.
Control and automation systems
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3–6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna University + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
- Introduction to PLCs: History, manufacturers, applications, and trends.
- Internal architecture of a PLC: CPU, memory, I/O modules, power supply.
- PLC programming languages: Ladder Diagram (LD), Instruction List (IL), Function Block Diagram (FBD), Structured Text (ST), Sequential Function Chart (SFC).
- Fundamentals of Ladder Diagram programming: Contacts, coils, timers, counters.
- Digital and analog I/O modules: Types, connection, configuration, and calibration.
- Introduction to SCADA: Definition, components, architecture, and applications.
- Communication in SCADA: Communication protocols (Modbus, OPC, DNP3), network topologies.
- HMI interface design: Graphic elements, Alarms, trends, security.
- Industrial networks: Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Profibus, DeviceNet.
- Cybersecurity in industrial control systems: Threats, vulnerabilities, and protection measures.
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Request information
Complete the Application Form.
Attach your CV/degree certificate (if you have it to hand).
Indicate your preferred cohort (January/May/September) and whether you would like the hybrid option with simulator sessions.
An academic advisor will contact you within 24–48 hours to guide you through the admission process, scholarships, and compatibility with your professional schedule.
Faculty
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Naval engineer specializing in the selection, integration, and optimization of propulsion systems for yachts, high-speed craft, and service vessels.
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Materials engineer specializing in marine composites and corrosion protection systems for ships, yachts, and port structures.
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Naval electrical engineer with over fifteen years of experience in the design, integration, and operation of power and automation systems.
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Specialist in meteorological and operational decision-making for coastal and offshore navigation, integrating wind, wave, and current models.
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Naval engineer with a PhD in applied hydrodynamics and over a decade of experience designing high-performance hulls and marine structures.
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
MCA-certified captain with command of ocean-going vessels, specializing in advanced maneuvering, navigation management, and bridge safety.