Automation Engineering Technology

Automation is becoming one of the major growing areas in national and international high technology economies.

Students within the program will study computer programming, motors, hydraulics, pneumatics, controls systems, instrumentation, and mechatronics - just to name a few things.

Graduates generally aid and assist the manufacturing industry - which can encompass everything from automobiles and component suppliers to aerospace to food processing, plastic manufacturers, and foundries. Students utilize principles of mechanical and electrical engineering practices to develop, design, install, test, and manufacture computer controlled and electrical mechanical systems.

With the continued growth of automation in industrial settings, students from the AET program are highly coveted in industry, and will continue to be highly sought after for decades to come.

Student standing next to an operational board.

Best value

UNI offers the least expensive four-year engineering-related programs in Iowa.

World class facilities

The Applied Engineering Building (AEB) is undergoing a $43.9 million dollar renovation to update spaces and technology for students.

AEB Modernization

$70K

starting salary

The average starting salary of our Automation Engineering Technology graduates is $60,000 to $70,000 per year.

Find out More About Automation Engineering Technology

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Department of Applied Engineering & Technical Management
University of Northern Iowa
Industrial Technology Center 25
Cedar Falls, IA 50614-0392

Phone: 319-273-2561
Email: appliedengineering@uni.edu

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Program Curriculum

The Automation Engineering Technology program has developed its curriculum utilizing recommendations from a very active advisory board made up of industry professionals. UNI's curriculum is developed by industry - for industry.

View our curriculum

Career Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the career opportunities for students in the Automation Engineering Technology program at the University of Northern Iowa are expected to increase by 12% over the next 10 years.

Career Outlook

Transfer to UNI

Transferring to UNI couldn't be easier. Check out our transfer guides to learn more about how community college credits can transfer to UNI.

Transfer information

What you'll learn

TECH 4162 - Automation-Pnuematics & Hydraulics
Basic application of hydraulics and pneumatics towards industrial automation.

TECH 2038 - Introduction to Electrical Power & Machinery
Single and polyphase circuits, DC machines, AC single and polyphase synchronous and induction machines, power transformers, introduction to conventional-and renewable-based power systems.

TECH 3147 - Computer Aided Manufacturing
Advanced programming for CNC machines, machining parameters, machining centers, turning centers, CAM application programs to create part geometry, tool paths, machining parameters, and post process NC code. Robot programming using simulation software.

Student next to some robotics equipment.

Hands-On Learning

Some of the most impactful learning experiences happen beyond the textbook. In the Department of Applied Engineering & Technical Management, you'll learn by doing. Every student completes a senior design or research project, choosing a topic that interests them – whether it’s exploring new uses for GPS technology, or creating a solar-powered boat.