Looking for the best online PLC programming courses? This guide covers the top courses available on Udemy, ranging from beginner to advanced levels, to help you enhance your skills and career.
Overview of Top PLC Programming Courses
Choosing the right PLC programming course can be daunting with so many options available. Here’s a quick overview of the top online PLC training courses that stand out right now, categorized by platform:
- Basic PLC Training
- RSLogix/Studio 5000 Training
- Siemens TIA Portal Training
- Siemens SIMATIC Training
Each of these courses is designed to teach real-world skills through practical examples, ensuring you gain hands-on experience that is directly applicable to your job. Whether you’re aiming to learn plc programming, obtain a PLC technician certificate, or looking to master ladder logic programs and structured text programming, these courses have got you covered.
Udemy often runs discounts for all their courses. All the prices listed below are based on current “regular prices”. We encourage you to click on any of the courses of interest to view current promotional rates being offered.
Best Course for Beginners: Basic PLC Training
Our Top Picks for Basic PLC Training Courses
Here’s a curated list of top PLC programming courses available on Udemy to get started. These courses are designed to enhance your skills, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced user in the field of programmable logic controllers.
| Course Name | Description | Course Link | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| PLC Programming (Level 1) | A comprehensive course for beginners to learn the fundamentals of PLC programming, focusing on ladder logic and real-world applications. | Course Link | $94.99 |
| PLC Programming (Level 2) | This course provides in-depth knowledge of PLCs and covers various programming techniques, suitable for both beginners and intermediate users. | Course Link | $94.99 |
| PLC and HMI Programming (Level 3) | Focused on HMI and SCADA systems, this course teaches how to integrate these with PLCs for enhanced industrial automation solutions. | Course Link | $109.99 |
These courses offer a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical exercises, ensuring you gain hands-on experience with PLC programming and related technologies. Whether you’re looking to learn plc programming from scratch or enhance your existing skills, these courses provide valuable insights and resources to help you succeed in the field.
Pros:
- Comprehensive coverage of foundational knowledge.
- Hands-on practice with widely-used PLC brands like Allen-Bradley.
- Suitable for absolute beginners.
Cons:
- Limited advanced topics unless you work through all three levels.
- Lack in-depth troubleshooting techniques.
These courses are designed to provide a solid foundation for those new to PLC programming. Covering everything from basic concepts, PLC hardware, PLC Controls, PLC Programming, Troubleshooting Tools and Design, making it an excellent starting point for beginners.
Each training typically takes around 40 hours to complete, offering a balanced mix of theory and practical exercises. One of the standout features is the focus on hands-on practice, which is crucial for understanding how programmable logic controllers work in real-world scenarios.
RSLogix 5000 Training / Studio 5000 Training
Our Top Picks for Studio 5000 Training Courses
Here’s a further selection of PLC programming courses available on Udemy that can help you expand your skills and knowledge in programmable logic controllers, specifically using the Allen Bradley ControlLogix platform of controllers:
| Course Name | Description | Course Link | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio 5000 Basic Ladder Programming | This course provides a foundational understanding of PLCs using Logix5000, ideal for beginners starting their PLC journey. | Course Link | $89.99 |
| Studio 5000 Advanced Ladder Programming | Focused on advanced ladder programming techniques using Logix5000, this course is perfect for those looking to deepen their skills. | Course Link | $119.99 |
| Studio 5000 Function Block Diagrams | This course teaches how to use Function Block Diagrams (FBDs) in LogixStudio 5000, enhancing your ability to create complex programs. | Course Link | $129.99 |
These courses are designed to cater to different levels of expertise, from beginners to those seeking to specialize in specific programming techniques, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience in the field of PLC programming.
Pros:
- In-depth training on advanced PLC programming techniques.
- Hands-on experience with ControlLogix systems.
- Suitable for advanced users aiming to refine their skills.
Cons:
- May require prior foundational knowledge in PLCs.
- Higher cost compared to beginner courses.
The RSLogix/Studio 5000 Training courses are tailored for beginner to advanced users. The course content dives deep into advanced programming techniques, offering hands-on experience with ControlLogix systems and Rockwell Automation.
One of the unique aspects of this course is its focus on practical applications, ensuring that participants can troubleshoot and optimize PLC systems effectively.
Siemens TIA Portal Training
Our Top Picks for Siemens TIA Portal Courses
Here’s a curated list of Siemens TIA Portal courses available on Udemy, designed to enhance your skills in programmable logic controllers:
| Course Name | Description | Course Link | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Learn Siemens S7-1200 PLC from Scratch using TIA | A beginner-friendly course that introduces learners to Siemens S7-1200 PLC programming using the TIA Portal, with hands-on examples. | Course Link | $94.99 |
| Siemens TIA Portal STEP 7 & WinCC PLC & HMI | This course covers the integration of PLCs and HMIs using Siemens TIA Portal STEP 7 and WinCC, ideal for those looking to expand their automation skills. | Course Link | $109.99 |
| Learn Siemens S7-1200 PLC & HMI via TIA Portal Advanced | An advanced course focusing on Siemens S7-1200 PLC and HMI programming through the TIA Portal, perfect for those seeking to deepen their understanding. | Course Link | $119.99 |
The Siemens TIA Portal Training courses stands out as the most comprehensive PLC training available for this platform. Its ‘Learning Journey’ format combines live and self-paced modules, offering flexibility and depth on a robust training platform.
These courses offer a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical exercises, ensuring you gain hands-on experience with Siemens TIA Portal and related technologies. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to advance your existing skills, these courses provide valuable insights and resources to help you succeed in the field.
Pros:
- Extensive coverage of programming languages and industrial communication systems.
- Hands-on training with practical exercises.
- Provides certification upon completion.
Cons:
- Extensive time commitment.
- Higher cost compared to other courses.
The curriculum is structured with modules that build upon each other, enhancing your knowledge progressively. This course covers a wide range of topics, including programming languages and industrial communication systems.
One of the standout features is the hands-on training with practical exercises designed to minimize errors when working with the TIA Portal. However, the course requires a significant time commitment and comes at a higher cost, which can be a deterrent for some.
Siemens SIMATIC Training
Our Top Picks for Siemens SIMATIC Courses
Here’s a curated list of Siemens SIMATIC courses available on Udemy, designed to enhance your skills in programmable logic controllers:
| Course Name | Description | Course Link | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Siemens SIMATIC Manager S7 Applications and Examples 1 | This course provides practical applications and examples using the Siemens SIMATIC Manager S7, ideal for those seeking hands-on experience. | Course Link | $94.99 |
| Learn Siemens S7-300 PLC Simatic Manager and WinCC HMI | A comprehensive course covering Siemens S7-300 PLC programming and WinCC HMI integration, perfect for learners aiming to understand both PLCs and HMIs. | Course Link | $109.99 |
| Programming Siemens SIMATIC S7-300 PLC | Focused on programming the Siemens S7-300 PLC, this course is tailored for those looking to enhance their technical skills in PLC programming. | Course Link | $119.99 |
These courses offer a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical exercises, ensuring you gain hands-on experience with Siemens SIMATIC systems and related technologies. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to advance your existing skills, these courses provide valuable insights and resources to help you succeed in the field.
Pros:
- Tailored content for industrial environments.
- Hands-on experience enhances problem-solving skills.
- Suitable for industrial engineers and technicians.
Cons:
- Highly specialized content.
- Higher cost compared to other courses.
These Siemens SIMATIC Training courses are uniquely tailored for professionals working in diverse industrial environments. The course focus on the practical application of automation solutions, covering a wide array of topics specific to Siemens SIMATIC systems, including programming techniques, troubleshooting, maintenance processes, and safety circuits.
Participants gain hands-on experience, enhancing their problem-solving skills and operational efficiency in real-world scenarios.
How to Choose the Right PLC Programming Course
Selecting the right PLC programming course is crucial for your career development. The first step is to consider the specific PLC brand relevant to your industry. Different industries may favor different brands, so understanding this can help you make an informed decision.
The choice of PLC brand can greatly influence the job market opportunities available in your region. For instance, if Allen-Bradley is widely used in your area, focusing on courses that specialize in this brand will maximize your learning effectiveness and employability.
It’s also important to find course online resources that align with the specific PLC brand you wish to learn. This alignment ensures that the skills you acquire are directly applicable to your job, making you a more valuable asset to your employer.
In conclusion, when choosing a PLC programming course, consider the brand relevance, job market opportunities, and resource alignment. This strategic approach will help you select the best course to meet your career goals.
Summary
In summary, investing in the right PLC programming course can significantly enhance your career in industrial automation. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or an advanced user aiming to refine your skills, there’s a course tailored to your needs.
Basic PLC training courses are perfect for beginners, while the RSLogix/Studio 5000 Training course is ideal for more advanced users. For those seeking comprehensive knowledge, the Siemens TIA Portal Training course is a great choice, and the Siemens SIMATIC Training course is best for industrial applications.
Remember, the key to choosing the right course is to consider the specific PLC brand relevant to your industry, job market opportunities, and resource alignment. By taking this strategic approach, you can ensure that you invest in a course that will help you achieve your career goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best PLC programming course for beginners?
Basic PLC training courses are perfect for beginners, providing essential knowledge and practical experience to kickstart your PLC programming journey! Embrace this opportunity to build your skills and confidence.
What course should advanced users take?
For advanced users, taking RSLogix/Studio 5000 Training is a great choice, as it provides hands-on experience with ControlLogix systems. Level up your skills and boost your expertise!
Which course is the most comprehensive?
The Siemens TIA Portal Training is the most comprehensive course, offering a structured ‘Learning Journey’ format along with certification to enhance your skills. Embrace this opportunity to deepen your expertise!
What is the best course for industrial applications?
The Siemens SIMATIC Training stands out as the best choice for industrial applications, expertly designed for professionals across various industrial settings. Dive in and elevate your skills to excel in your career!
How do I choose the right PLC programming course?
Choose a PLC programming course that focuses on the specific brand relevant to your career goals and job market demands to ensure you’re equipped with the right skills for success. This targeted approach will empower you to advance in the field with confidence!