COURSE CURRICULUM

Northern’s Automation and Instrumentation Technician program is a comprehensive four-semester diploma designed to prepare students for careers in industrial process control and instrumentation. In the first semester, students build foundational knowledge with courses in chemistry, electrical fundamentals, professional communications, health and safety, basic instrumentation techniques, pressure and flow measurement, and mathematics. The second semester deepens this foundation through workplace communications, advanced electrical and electronics fundamentals, computer-aided drafting, control principles focusing on controller tuning and valve technology, further measurement techniques including level and temperature, and advanced mathematics. The third semester expands technical expertise with physics, analytical process measurement, advanced control techniques involving digital microprocessor-based controllers and communication protocols such as HART and Modbus, digital logic and programmable logic controllers, industrial electronics focusing on motors and transformers, as well as higher-level mathematics and general education electives. The final semester emphasizes applied learning and specialization with courses in statistical process control, control systems for various industrial applications like boilers and pulp mills, advanced electronic circuits including motor drives and starters, advanced digital principles covering microprocessor systems and data acquisition, and introductory calculus for engineering problems. Throughout the program, students engage in extensive lab work and practical assignments to reinforce theoretical concepts and develop hands-on skills. Indigenous culture and awareness courses foster a respectful and inclusive understanding of Canada’s history. This rigorous curriculum ensures graduates are proficient in installing, maintaining, troubleshooting, calibrating, and programming instrumentation and control equipment, equipped with strong problem-solving and communication skills, and prepared for certification opportunities such as through OACETT, positioning them for successful careers in diverse industrial environments.