

PG-DIPLOMA in Industrial Automation Pgdia at COEP Technological University


Pune, Maharashtra
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About the Specialization
What is Industrial Automation (PGDIA) at COEP Technological University Pune?
This Post Graduate Diploma in Industrial Automation (PGDIA) program at COEP Technological University focuses on equipping professionals with advanced knowledge and practical skills for modern industrial processes. It addresses the growing demand for automation experts in India''''s rapidly expanding manufacturing, process, and energy sectors, emphasizing industry-relevant technologies and hands-on application to bridge the skill gap effectively.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh engineering graduates (B.E./B.Tech) in disciplines like Instrumentation, Electrical, Electronics, Mechanical, and Computer Science seeking specialized entry into the automation industry. It also caters to working professionals aiming to upskill, transition into automation roles, or enhance their current industrial control expertise. Prior foundational knowledge in basic electronics and control systems is highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in Indian industries as automation engineers, control system designers, SCADA/PLC specialists, robotics engineers, or IIoT solution architects. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program aligns with industry certifications, fostering growth trajectories in system integration, manufacturing, and R&D roles across various Indian companies.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Automation Fundamentals- (Semester 1)
Diligently study the principles of instrumentation, process control, PLCs, and SCADA. Utilize online resources like NPTEL courses, specific vendor tutorials (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell automation guides), and build small simulation projects using free software to reinforce concepts. Engage actively in lab sessions to cement theoretical understanding.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, PLC/SCADA simulation software (e.g., Factory I/O), Vendor documentation, COEP lab manuals, Online tutorials
Career Connection
Strong fundamentals are critical for passing technical interviews and forming the basis for advanced problem-solving in industrial settings, crucial for entry-level roles as automation engineers.
Cultivate Hands-on Lab Expertise- (Semester 1)
Dedicate extra time to practicing in the automation labs. Go beyond assigned tasks to experiment with different configurations, troubleshoot errors, and understand the practical nuances of hardware and software integration. Form study groups to collaboratively tackle complex lab problems and share learning.
Tools & Resources
COEP''''s Industrial Automation Labs, PLC kits, SCADA software, Sensor modules, Peer study groups, Troubleshooting guides
Career Connection
Practical, hands-on skills are highly valued by Indian industries; proficiency in lab equipment directly translates to readiness for real-world projects, commissioning, and maintenance roles.
Build Industrial Communication Protocol Understanding- (Semester 1)
Focus specifically on understanding the architecture, messaging, and applications of various industrial communication protocols (HART, Profibus, Modbus, OPC UA, Industrial Ethernet). Research case studies where different protocols are deployed and analyze their benefits and limitations in diverse Indian industrial contexts.
Tools & Resources
ISA standards, Protocol specification documents, Industrial automation journals, NPTEL modules on industrial communication, Vendor whitepapers
Career Connection
Essential for integration roles, troubleshooting connectivity issues in complex automation systems, and developing smart factory solutions in India''''s increasingly connected industrial landscape.
Intermediate Stage
Engage with Advanced Control and DCS Concepts- (Early Semester 2)
Deep dive into Distributed Control Systems (DCS) architectures, advanced control strategies like Model Predictive Control (MPC), and batch control applications. Seek out industry webinars or workshops focused on modern DCS platforms (e.g., Honeywell, Emerson) to understand their practical implementation and configuration in process industries.
Tools & Resources
Vendor-specific DCS training modules (online), Industrial automation publications, Case studies on advanced control systems, Professional webinars
Career Connection
Prepares for specialized roles in large-scale process industries (Oil & Gas, Chemical, Pharma) where DCS is prevalent, enhancing employability for specialized control engineering positions.
Explore Robotics and Vision System Applications- (Early Semester 2)
Learn basic robotic programming for industrial manipulators (e.g., using simulation software like RoboDK or URSim) and explore machine vision libraries (e.g., OpenCV with Python) for automation tasks. Identify potential applications in Indian manufacturing settings for quality control, assembly, or material handling, and try to simulate them.
Tools & Resources
Robotics simulation software, OpenCV library, YouTube tutorials for robot programming, Industrial robot programming manuals, Online courses on machine vision
Career Connection
Opens doors to the rapidly growing robotics and automation sector in India, particularly in automotive, electronics manufacturing, and logistics, for roles like robotics engineer or vision system specialist.
Network with Industry Professionals- (Throughout program, intensified in Semester 2)
Attend industry events, automation expos, and technical conferences in the Pune/Mumbai region. Connect with professionals on LinkedIn, participate in industry forums, and seek mentorship. Utilize COEP''''s extensive alumni network for valuable insights and potential internship or job opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Automation India Expo, ISA events, COEP Alumni Portal, Industry-specific forums
Career Connection
Provides crucial industry insights, potential internship leads, and enhances visibility for placement opportunities within the Indian automation ecosystem, fostering professional growth.
Advanced Stage
Deliver an Impactful PGDIA Project- (Semester 2 (especially second half))
Choose a project that addresses a real-world industrial problem, ideally with industry collaboration. Focus on delivering a functional prototype or a detailed solution report. Document the entire process meticulously, from problem identification to testing, and be prepared to articulate the technical challenges and solutions effectively.
Tools & Resources
Project management tools, Relevant software/hardware for the project, COEP project mentors, Industry contacts for guidance, Technical documentation standards
Career Connection
A well-executed project demonstrates strong problem-solving abilities and practical skills, significantly enhancing placement prospects for roles like R&D engineer, system integrator, or project manager.
Prepare for Placements and Technical Interviews- (Semester 2 (towards end))
Actively participate in COEP''''s placement cell activities. Practice aptitude tests, technical questions covering all PGDIA modules, and mock interviews. Tailor your resume and cover letter to specific company requirements in the automation sector, highlighting project work and practical skills relevant to job descriptions.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell resources, Online aptitude platforms (e.g., Indiabix), Interview preparation guides, Company websites for role research, Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Directly impacts securing desirable placements in top automation companies, system integrators, and manufacturing firms across India, ensuring a smooth transition into the professional world.
Stay Updated with Industry 4.0 and IIoT Trends- (Ongoing, particularly emphasized in Semester 2 and beyond)
Continuously follow developments in Industrial IoT, Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning in automation, and cybersecurity for operational technology. Read industry blogs, whitepapers, and participate in online courses or certifications related to these emerging technologies to maintain a competitive edge and future-proof your skills.
Tools & Resources
Industrial IoT consortia publications, Online courses (e.g., Coursera, Udemy on Industry 4.0), Tech news portals (e.g., Automation World), Webinars on emerging tech
Career Connection
Positions you as a forward-thinking professional, crucial for roles involving digital transformation, smart manufacturing, and future-ready automation solutions in the evolving Indian industrial landscape.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s Degree in Engineering (B.E./B.Tech) in Instrumentation, Instrumentation & Control, Electrical, Electronics, Electronics & Telecommunication, Mechanical, Production, Mechatronics, Computer, Information Technology, or equivalent, with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks.
Duration: 1 year (2 semesters)
Credits: 30 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGDIA-101 | Industrial Instrumentation | Core | 4 | Transducers and Sensor Technologies, Signal Conditioning and Data Acquisition, Smart Instruments and Field Devices, Process Variable Measurement (Pressure, Flow, Level, Temperature), Calibration Principles and Standards, Actuators and Control Valves |
| PGDIA-102 | Process Control Engineering | Core | 4 | Process Dynamics and Mathematical Modeling, Feedback Control Systems and PID Controllers, Controller Tuning Techniques (Ziegler-Nichols, Cohen-Coon), Advanced Control Strategies (Cascade, Ratio, Feedforward), Control Loop Performance and Stability Analysis, Multivariable Control Concepts |
| PGDIA-103 | Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and SCADA | Core | 4 | PLC Hardware and Architecture, Ladder Logic and Function Block Diagram Programming, HMI Development and Graphic Design, SCADA System Architecture and Components, Data Acquisition, Trending, and Alarm Management, PLC-SCADA System Integration |
| PGDIA-104 | Industrial Communication Networks | Core | 4 | HART and Foundation Fieldbus Protocols, Profibus and Modbus Communication Standards, Industrial Ethernet and OPC UA, Network Topologies and Configuration, Data Exchange and Cybersecurity in OT, Wireless Communication in Industry |
| PGDIA-105 | PGDIA Lab I | Lab | 3 | PLC Programming and Simulation Exercises, SCADA System Configuration and HMI Design, Sensor and Actuator Interfacing, PID Controller Tuning Experiments, Industrial Communication Protocol Implementation, Troubleshooting Automation Systems |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGDIA-201 | Distributed Control Systems (DCS) | Core | 4 | DCS Architecture and Components, DCS Configuration and Programming, Batch Control and Sequence Control, Operator Interface and Alarm Management in DCS, Fieldbus Integration with DCS, Advanced Applications and Troubleshooting, System Maintenance and Diagnostics |
| PGDIA-202 | Robotics and Vision Systems for Automation | Core | 4 | Robot Kinematics and Dynamics, Robot Programming and Control, End-Effectors and Gripper Design, Machine Vision Fundamentals and Imaging Devices, Image Processing Techniques for Automation, Vision-Guided Robotics Applications |
| PGDIA-203 | Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS) | Core | 4 | Functional Safety Standards (IEC 61508/61511), Safety Life Cycle and Risk Assessment (HAZOP, LOPA), Safety Integrity Level (SIL) Determination, SIS Design, Verification, and Validation, Safety PLCs and Safety Devices, Maintenance and Testing of SIS |
| PGDIA-204 | Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and Industry 4.0 | Core | 4 | Industry 4.0 Concepts and Pillars, IIoT Architecture and Enabling Technologies, Cloud Computing and Edge Computing for IIoT, Big Data Analytics and Predictive Maintenance, Digital Twin and Cyber-Physical Systems, Cybersecurity Challenges in Operational Technology (OT) |
| PGDIA-205 | PGDIA Project Work / Internship | Project | 8 | Problem Identification and Scope Definition, System Design and Implementation, Testing, Debugging, and Validation, Documentation and Report Writing, Presentation and Defense of Project Work, Industry-Specific Application Development |




