This description is only available in English.

  • June 2025

    Start
  • 2 weeks (full-time)

    Duration
  • ETH Zurich

    Location
  • English
    Tuition language
  • tba

    Application period
  • CHF 9,500

    Programme fee

In brief: The CAS ETH in Automation   

Control is the hidden science that enables most of modern technologies. In this programme you will learn how, with applications from aerospace to bioengineering to energy systems.

Structure and content

Programme description

The CAS ETH in Automation offers an overview of the role of control and automation in modern technologies, infrastructures, and engineering systems. We start from the fundamental feedback control scheme, discuss modern techniques such as model predictive control and system identification, and we introduce model-free methods like reinforcement learning and data-enabled predictive control. Given the ubiquitous nature of control, throughout the course we showcase examples from various disciplines.

Objectives

Graduates understand the basics of control schemes, the role of feed-back, and the role of modelling. They can differentiate between the fundamental properties of dynamical systems, describe the elements of basic control methods such as PID control and discuss the characteristics of modern control methods, such as Model Predictive Control, optimal control, system identification, adaptive control, and robust control. Graduates are able to recognise model-free methods such as reinforcement learning and data-enabled predictive control.

Professional perspectives

Graduates will have a high-level understanding of how control and automation is used in different companies and domains, unlocking the ability to interact with technicians by using technical language and, at the same time, incorporate this knowledge in their decision-making. Moreover, they will benefit from exposure to technological innovation, potentially leading to improvements of their professional positions, Finally, graduates will develop an ETH professional network.

Structure and format

The CAS ETH in Automation is composed of 6 modules over the span of two weeks. During the course the application of case studies, hands-on exercises, and moderated group discussions are planned. Additionally, an excursion and two public networking events will be included in the programme.

Additional information

The CAS is divided into 6 modules:

  • Module 1: Introduction to systems theory
  • Module 2: Properties of dynamical systems
  • Module 3: The science of feedback control
  • Module 4: Advanced control techniques
  • Module 5: Control under uncertainty
  • Module 6: Learning and data-driven control

Tuition language(s)

English

Credits

12 ECTS credits

Target group and admission

Target group

Individuals or professionals with an interest in the topics of automation and control, not limited to modelling, analysis, and control of dynamical systems, as well as applications spanning energy systems, transportation, biomedical systems, and industrial processes.

Requirements

Master's degree acknowledged by ETH or an equivalent educational qualification and at least 3 years of working experience. No technical background is required.

Required language skills

Language(s) of performance assessment

English

Dates and venue

Start

June 2025

Duration

2 weeks (full-time)

Application period

tba

Location

ETH Zurich

Fees

Programme fee

CHF 9,500

Application fee

CHF 50 for persons with a Swiss university degree, CHF 150 for persons with another university degree (non-​refundable, credit card payment only)

Withdrawal fee

  • Within 30 days after the admission date: free of charge
  • More than 30 days after the admission date: CHF 4,750
  • After the start of the programme: CHF 9,500

Application

Questions about the application

ETH Zurich, School for Continuing Education, HG E 17–​18.5, Rämistrasse 101, 8092 Zurich, Tel. external page +41 44 632 56 59, E-mail

Application documents

Organiser

Programme management

Professor John Lygeros
Programme Director
Professor John Lygeros
Dr Silvia Garbari
Programme Administration
School for Continuing Education - Key visual
Dr Andrea Martinelli
Programme Manager
Professor Benjamin Grewe

Contact

Dr Andrea Martinelli
Programme Manager

ETH Zurich, D-ITET, Automatic Control Laboratory
Physikstrasse 3
8092 Zurich

Responsible body

ETH Zurich, Department of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering (D-ITET), Automatic Control Laboratory

JavaScript has been disabled in your browser