Automation & Robotics Engineering Technology (AURO)
Department of Applied Engineering, Safety & Technology
Prepare for in-demand, fulfilling careers in automation and robotics with Millersville University’s hands-on 2-year Associate degree in Applied Engineering & Technology - Control Systems Technology (CSYS) or 4-year Bachelor degree in Automation & Robotics Engineering Technology (AURO). Both degrees provide 21st-century skills and abilities to design, develop, integrate, and innovate cutting-edge control and robotic technologies that will automate the future!
Interested in Automation & Robotics Engineering Technology? Request more information
Automation & Robotics Engineering Technology
Hands-on experience integrating automation, robotics, control engineering, and computer science.
Automation & Robotics Engineering Technology (AURO)
Bachelor of Science (4-year, typ)
The 4-year B.S. in Automation & Robotics Engineering Technology (AURO) program provides students with a strong foundation in engineering principles, electronics, control systems, mechanical systems, software development, and system integration for robotics and automation. Through hands-on design, programming, and system integration, students gain practical experience in modeling, simulation, and automation of process control systems.
Bachelor of Science in Automation & Robotics Engineering Technology Catalog Listing
“MU did a great job preparing me for the challenges I face in my career. The expectations of the professors and their drive to develop “out of the box” and analytical thinking skills are what I believe to be one of the biggest takeaways. The individualized attention that the professors provide is invaluable when developing the necessary skillsets required for the real world.”
- Gilbert Ramos | 2014
Control Systems Technology (CSYS)
Associate of Technology (2-year, typ)
The 2-year A.T. in Applied Engineering & Technology - Control Systems Technology (CSYS) program equips students with the technical expertise to troubleshoot, maintain, and program automation systems. Through hands-on laboratory-based coursework, students develop systems thinking and troubleshooting skills to diagnose, integrate, and enhance control systems. Emphasizing real-world implementation and system reliability, the program prepares graduates for careers in automation and control systems.
Associate of Technology in Control Systems Technology Catalog Listing
Minor in Control Systems Technology
A minor in Control System Technology is available to students who complete 18 credits of technical courses related to the study of Robotics and Control Systems.
Don't leave your question unanswered.
Dr. John Haughery is the program coordinator for the Automation & Robotics Engineering Technology degree in the Applied Engineering, Safety & Technology department. He will be able to answer any question you have about the AURO program or any of the other programs in the department.
You can view Dr. Haughery's contact information by following this link.
Print out your own copy of the AURO program information by clicking on the icon to the left or use the button below.
Top three reasons to study automation & Robotics Engineering Technology AT MU:
- Learn relevant, in-demand automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, computer programming, and control system engineering skills.
- “[The] demand for robots has never been stronger as more industries look to automation to increase productivity and alleviate ongoing labor shortages”
- Earn one of the highest starting salaries after graduation from the university: automation/controls/robotics engineers $65,000- $75,000 per year.
Laboratory Facilities for AURO Majors:
There are multiple laboratory facilities dedicated to supporting the Automation & Robotics Engineering Technology degree. Some of the laboratories include:
- Adaptive Computing
- Automation/Controls
- Advanced CADD
- Electronics
- Fluid Power
- Robotics R&D
- Intelligent Machines
- Materials Processing
- Rapid Prototyping
We use RoboDK (robotdk.com) for simulation and offline programming of industrial robots.
Clubs & Activities
Association of Technology, Management & Applied Engineering (ATMAE) Student Chapter (aka MU Robotics Team) The MU Robotics Team has earned 50+ awards since 2001 in national or international robotics competitions. The team boasts seven national robotics championships.
Pictured: 2023 Intelligent Ground Vehicle Competition team photo.
Robotic WorX is an industry-aligned program designed to spark student interest and provide hands-on experience solving real-world robotics, automation, and advanced manufacturing problems. The program helps address pressing workforce and process challenges by developing proof-of-concept solutions through student-industry collaboration. Find out more here
Epsilon Pi Tau (EPT) – Beta Phi Chapter. Epsilon Pi Tau is an international honor society for professions in technology. At Millersville, this includes Technology & Engineering Education, Applied Engineering & Technology Management, and Occupational Safety & Environmental Health majors.
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About our graduates
Job titles reported by recent AURO GraduatesWhen Automation & Robotics Engineering Technology graduates complete their studies at Millersville University, they embark on careers that have limitless potential. Here are some of the job titles Automation & Robotics Engineering Technology graduates reported in a 2021 survey of recent department graduates:
- Application Engineer & Product Specialist
- Assembly Engineer
- Automation Engineer
- Automation General Manager
- Automation Programmer
- Automation Specialist
- Certified Machinery Safety Expert
- Control System Engineer
- Design Engineer
- Engineering Supervisor
- Engineering Technician
- Industrial Automation Engineer
- Installation Supervisor
- IT Project Specialist
- Lead Systems Engineer
- Manufacturing Engineer
- Plant Service Engineer
- Process Control Engineer
- Process Engineer
- Product Design Engineer
- Product Manager
- Program Engineer
- Project Engineer
- Project Manager
- Quality Manager
- Robotics/Automation Engineer
- Sales Engineer
- Sales Representative
- Site Supervisor
- Software Application Engineer
- Solution Engineer
- Sr. Engineer
- Support Engineer
- Team Supervisor
- Validation Lead
- Vice President Sales & Marketing
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AURO Alumni Spotlight
Michael Graham, AUTomation/Vision Engineer
Berry GlobalWhat I do: I resolve timely production-based issues on our establish automation and robots (robot crash, part wear, control issues, ect.). I specialize in our automated vision systems and so am usually the first one called for any vision-related issues. Another major part of my role is the continuous improvement of our plant by introducing new automation through a process of design, review, and implementation. My job varies greatly from day to day. Some days are quiet research and Solidworks nights while others can be full of production related issues that demand immediate attention.
HEATHER MURRAY, CONTROLs ENGINEER
OMNITECH AUTOMATION INC.What I do: Hired as the roboticist for a large project including four Fanuc robot cells. Two of these are six-axis robots, one equipped with Fanuc’s vision system, iRVision. The other two cells are Fanuc SCARA robots, which work together to create an assembly of plastic container caps with their related parts. Began software development with RoboGuide simulation software and CAD drawings of cell. Next, transferred the software to actual robots; updated payloads and finalized iRvision system; tweaked and tested the motion repeatedly; and assisted to incorporate the robots with the PLC system. Omnitech Automation Inc. is a Fanuc System Integrator, so the company sent me to two week-long training sessions to learn Fanuc programming and vision.
Dan Vazquez, Industrial Automation R&D Engineer
PrecisionForm Inc.What I do: PrecisionForm Inc. is a producer of cold formed and machined parts. As an Industrial Automation R&D Engineer I design and deploy custom automation systems to integrate with existing equipment and processes, as well as develop new processes and equipment to automate production and inspection tasks. I also build prototype equipment to test processes before implementing them into production. The skills I learned through the ARET program and Robotics Team were an excellent foundation to continue learning throughout my career.
QUENTIN KILGORE, SOFTWARE ENGINEER
ENGLE MACHINERY INC.What I do: Engel is a global injection molding machine and automation company. I am a software engineer in the automation department. Engel automation has two main products. They have their own proprietary cartesian robot, as well as six axis KUKA robots. Engel automation sells all kinds of periphery equipment as well to go along with the robots. My main job duties are to create software for standard robots and to create custom software for peripheral automation equipment. I have programmed custom conveyor belts, lasers, vision systems, bowl feeders, etc. I am also responsible for supporting service techs via phone support. I also go onsite to assist in the startup for the more complex projects.
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ATMAE Accredited Program
Degree: Bachelor of Science
Program Name: Automation and Robotics Engineering Technology
CIP Code: 15.0406
A program that prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in support of engineers and other professionals engaged in developing, installing, calibrating, modifying and maintaining automated systems. Includes instruction in computer systems; electronics and instrumentation; programmable logic controllers (PLCs); electric, hydraulic and pneumatic control systems; actuator and sensor systems; process control; robotics; applications to specific industrial tasks; and report preparation.
Program Mission Statement:
The AURO program seeks to 1) deliver a rigorous, hands-on curriculum grounded in engineering principles, modern industrial control systems, and advanced robotics and programming to prepare students for successful careers in automation engineering, 2) develop graduates with technical expertise, problem-solving ability, and agility to lead in dynamic, technology-driven industries, and 3) engage industry, education, and community partners to strengthen workforce development and expand career pathways into automation engineering.
Program Description:
The Bachelor of Science in Automation & Robotics Engineering Technology (AURO) introduces students to the fundamentals of power, electronic systems, and formal programming techniques common in industry. The curriculum, supported jointly by the departments of Applied Engineering, Safety & Technology and Computer Science, includes in depth technical content of electronics, control systems, mechanical systems, and computer programming and applications to prepare professionals equipped to design, improve, maintain, and manage robotic and automated process and control systems. Laboratory courses require students to design, program, develop and construct projects independently and in small teams. -
Schedule a visit to Applied Engineering, Safety & Technology
University Open House Days and Personal Tours Available.
The best way to get to know us is to come and see us!Several opportunities are available throughout the year for you to come and visit the Millersville University campus to learn about the programs offered, student life, financial aid, and the application process. Please click on Admissions Department to go to their page.
We are also available to meet with interested students and their families at times other than the scheduled open house days. Please email or call us using the information below. We'll schedule a time to meet with you and connect you with a professor who specializes in your area of interest.
Email: AEST@millersville.edu
Phone: 717-871-7237 -
AEST News Blog and Department Information
Keep up on the latest things happening in and around the Department of Applied Engineering, Safety & Technology. You can see what the students and staff are doing right now, and back issues of the former AEST Newsletter, Abbozzare, are available.
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Osburn Hall Building Hours
Office Hours:
7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday through Friday
Building Hours:
7:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday
7:30am - 4:30 p.m. Friday