Program Overview
Ohio University Lancaster's Associate in Applied Science in Engineering Technology program equips students with a technical foundation in manufacturing processes, automation, and robotics. Graduates are prepared for careers as electrical technicians, automation specialists, or engineering technicians, with opportunities for advancement to engineering baccalaureate programs. The program emphasizes hands-on lab courses and skills in troubleshooting automated equipment and programmable logic controllers.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Ohio University Lancaster offers a two-year program leading to an Associate in Applied Science with a major in engineering technology. The Engineering Technology program is designed to offer students a technical foundation needed to help solve complex problems by exposing them to real-world applications using hands-on lab courses. Students are taught a variety of courses including manufacturing processes, mechatronics, automation, and robotics, as well as skills in quality analysis tools (Lean), occupational safety, and electronics. A large focus within the program is on the importance of automated equipment, operation, and repair. The concentration focuses on controls, programming, troubleshooting automated equipment and programmable logic controllers (PLCs).
Program Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of the engineering technology major, students will be able to:
- Apply technical fundamentals to help resolve a manufacturing process problem using metal machining (manual and CNC); plastics processing, welding and metal fabrication, hydraulics and pneumatics, and electronics, PLCs, motors, and automation/robotics
- Add value to an organization
- Work effectively as a team member
- Generate and interpret drawings/sketches that incorporate dimensions, tolerances, and specifications
- Value and respect diversity in the workplace
- Collect, generate, and understand data to control manufacturing processes and provide feedback for continuous improvement
- Maintain common manufacturing processes
- Identify potential safety concerns and designate a proper emergency plan
Careers:
The various topics of the Associate of Applied Science degree provides the student with a wide variety of career opportunities. With much of the program's focus on automation, this degree prepares students as an electrical technician for programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and electric motors and controls. Graduates may work for manufacturers or field service providers to set up and troubleshoot sensors, automated equipment, and robots to ensure productivity. Job titles may include industrial systems technician, automation specialist, or engineering technician. Some graduates may also be involved in equipment sales. Through this program, students are also prepared for a career as a testing technician, safety technician, or production quality technician. The engineering track provides students with the opportunity to pursue engineering baccalaureate programs offered by the Ohio University Russ College of Engineering and Technology. Students should discuss with their advisors the career pathway that best suits their individual interests.