Process Systems Technology

Program Description

The Process Systems Technology program prepares students for entry-level employment as process operators or technicians. A process operator/technician is a key member of a team of people responsible for planning, analyzing, and controlling the production of products from the acquisition of raw materials through the production and distribution of products to customers in a variety of process industries.

This program provides an understanding of process equipment and its principles of operation and control. The graduate will understand the technical aspects of the work, the responsibilities of the work, and the importance of safety in this vitally important, shift-oriented position. Industries interested in the graduates from the program include, but are not limited to, oil exploration and production, mining and mineral processing, petroleum product manufacturing, advanced manufacturing, pharmaceutical production, food and beverage, electric power generation, drinking water treatment, and wastewater treatment.

This program is no longer offered. Please see the Mechatronics program.

Contact Information

Office of Student Services
WCCC, Bishop B102
2508 Blichmann Avenue
970.255.2670

PROS 100 Introduction to Process Technology3 Credits

Provides an overview or introduction into the field of Process Operations within the process industry. The course will introduce the roles and responsibilities of process technicians, the environment in which they work, and the equipment and systems in which they operate.

PROS 117 Electronics I3 Credits

Fundamentals of practical and theoretical DC and AC circuits. Application of basic entry skills and analysis/verification of theoretical results. Introduces the basic skills required by many careers in electronics and related fields. Operations and applications of basic DC and AC circuits consisting of resistors, capacitors, inductors, transformers and diodes, and introducing basic digital concepts. Emphasis on common test instruments in troubleshooting, working on real-world and applicable projects. Lecture/lab format.

PROS 118 Electronics II3 Credits

Advanced DC, AC and digital circuitry. Analysis and verification of theoretical results with practical applications. Builds on PROS 117 Electronics 1 and covers advanced concepts of DC and AC circuits. Includes expanded treatment of power supplies, dual-supply rectifier circuits, and Zener diode, voltage regulators. Includes digital concepts. Emphasis on common test instruments in troubleshooting, working on real-world projects. Lecture/lab format.

Prerequisites: PROS 117.

PROS 120 Process Technology I: Equipment4 Credits

Provides an overview or introduction into the field of equipment within the process industry. This course will introduce many process industry-related equipment concepts including purpose, components, operation, and the Process Technician's role for operating and troubleshooting the equipment.

PROS 195 Independent Study1-4 Credits

Course may be taken multiple times up to maximum of 6 credit hours.

PROS 196 Topics:1-3 Credits

Course may be taken multiple times up to maximum of 15 credit hours.

PROS 220 Process Technology III: Operations4 Credits

Provides an introduction to the field of operations within the process industry. Students will use existing knowledge of equipment, systems, and instrumentation to understand the operation of an entire unit. Students study concepts related to commissioning, normal startup, normal operations, normal shutdown, turnarounds, and abnormal situations, as well as the Process Technician's role in performing the tasks associated with these concepts within an operating unit.

PROS 230 Quality in Process Technology3 Credits

Provides an introduction to the field of Quality within the Process Industry. This course will introduce many process industry-related quality concepts including operating consistency, continuous improvement, plant economics, team skills and statistical process control (SPC).

PROS 290 Certification:1 Credit

Capstone certification preparation specifically addressing each emphasis and associated certifications. Addresses Certified Electronics Technician (CET) program and other certifications.

PROS 292 Capstone4 Credits

Knowledge to articulate the tactical planning functions performed within field projects. Access and apply the various tactical planning tools and data elements to supporting documentation including troubleshooting. Economic principles in costing, value, capital investment, profitability and inventory.