Program Overview

Build the skills to lead in the age of smart manufacturing and digital transformation.

Industry 4.0, also known as the Fourth Industrial Revolution, is characterized by the integration of advanced digital technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, big data analytics, robotics, and manufacturing process control into traditional industrial processes. These cutting-edge technologies enable the creation of smart, interconnected factories and production systems that can communicate, analyze, and make data-driven decisions autonomously, ultimately driving greater efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness in the global market.

The Graduate Certificate in Industry 4.0 is a 12-credit credential with a fully online option that focuses on practical tools and industry-aligned knowledge you can apply immediately in your career.  

It is designed for professionals across a range of industries seeking to upskill or reskill in the technologies driving the next industrial revolution.

• Engineers – Enhance your understanding of advanced manufacturing processes, robotics, and automation to improve operational efficiency and productivity in your work environment.
• Data Analysts and Data Scientists – Leverage Industry 4.0 concepts to develop data-driven solutions that optimize operations, reduce costs, and spark innovation across business functions.
• Supply Chain and Logistics Managers – Gain the skills to integrate IoT and automation into supply chain systems—leading to more agile, transparent, and responsive logistics operations.
• IT Professionals – Support your organization’s digital transformation by understanding Industry 4.0 technologies, addressing cybersecurity needs, and enabling seamless systems integration.
• Project and Product Managers – Apply Industry 4.0 knowledge to lead innovative product development and technology-driven project management, keeping your organization competitive in a digital-first economy.

What You’ll Learn
Gain hands-on knowledge and insight into:

• Systems Integration & Control – Bridge the gap between IT and OT systems in manufacturing environments.
• Cyber-Physical Systems – Integrate computation, networking, and physical processes in modern production systems.
• Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) – Harness sensor data and connected devices to optimize performance.
• Smart Manufacturing & Robotics – Learn the role of automation, AI, and robotics in industrial systems.
• Data Analytics for Industry – Use real-time data to drive decisions and continuous improvement.

Curriculum

Four graduate-level courses. One powerful credential.

The Graduate Certificate in Industry 4.0 consists of 12 credits (4 courses), carefully designed to give you a comprehensive foundation in the technologies shaping modern industry.  Topics include cyber-physical systems, Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), data analytics and visualization, machine learning and AI in industry, smart manufacturing processes, sensors and SCADA systems, and digital supply chain management. 

Students will also be exposed to real-world case studies and industry projects that provide invaluable insights into the practical challenges and opportunities associated with implementing Industry 4.0 technologies.

ISE571 – Industry 4.0 Fundamentals (fall semester, asynchronous online)
(3 crs.) Overview of the industrial automation field in the context of Industry 4.0. It familiarizes participants with the fundamental principles of industrial controllers, encompassing their constituent components and systems, as well as their contemporary deployment in manufacturing facilities. It underscores the significance of Industry 4.0 and its ramifications on the automation domain. Specific topics of focus include sensor technologies, feedback control, autonomous mobile robots (AMR), industrial communication networks, and rugged embedded systems. Pre: Bachelors or advanced standing in STEM major, or permission of instructor. 

ISE572 – Machine Learning for Industry 4.0 (spring semester, asynchronous online)
(3 crs.) Explores the applications of machine learning techniques in Industry 4.0. The course will provide an in-depth analysis of various techniques such as deep learning, neural networks, and data analysis. These techniques will be examined in the context of predictive maintenance, part status estimation, quality control, intelligent robotics, and other relevant areas. Pre: Bachelors or advanced standing in STEM major, or permission of instructor. 

ISE573 – Manufacturing Execution Systems (winter semester, asynchronous online)
(3 crs.) Explores Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) in the context of Industry 4.0, covering topics such as real-time data acquisition, production scheduling, quality management, and integration with other systems. Pre: Bachelors or advanced standing in STEM major, or permission of instructor. 

ISE575 – Industry 4.0 Special Projects (summer session, asynchronous online)
(3 crs.) Students will apply their knowledge about Industry 4.0 and machine learning to a real-world case study. The case study will be chosen to provide a comprehensive and practical problem that requires various Industry 4.0 techniques. Students will work in teams to develop and present a solution to the case study, incorporating their knowledge of machine learning techniques, data analysis, and problem-solving skills. Through this course, students will gain hands-on experience and deepen their understanding of the challenges and opportunities of modern manufacturing and intelligent systems in the context of Industry 4.0. Pre: Bachelors or advanced standing in STEM major, or permission of instructor. 

Courses may be taken individually or as part of the certificate sequence.  Please see the University Academic Catalog for more details about the specific course prerequisites.

Admission & Cost

Ready to take the next step?

Our admissions process is streamlined with working professionals and career-focused students in mind.

Admission Requirements
Bachelor’s degree or advanced standing in STEM disciplines.
Not sure if your background is a good fit? Contact our program director.  

Application Requirements
To apply, you’ll need:

• Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher (flexible based on experience)
• Resume or CV
• Statement of purpose
• No GRE required

International Student? Please visit this site for more information.

Application Deadline
Fall admission: XXX
Winter admission: XXX
Spring admission: XXX
Summer admission: XXX

For specific semester start dates and details, please refer to the Academic Calendar.

Tuition & Fees
Tuition and fees for graduate programs at the University of Rhode Island can be found here.