Online Undergraduate Certificate in the Internet of Things (IoT)

The Internet of Things refers to an interconnected network of devices and objects that speak to one another, share data and use connectivity to improve efficiency and convenience. As an example, a security camera, a high-tech fridge, smart plugs and a smart home controller would all count as devices within the Internet of Things.

The main purpose of the Internet of Things is to increase efficiency and convenience. In a home setting, you can use a smart home controller to control lights, adjust a thermostat or speak over an intercom on your front porch. At the industrial level, you might have manufacturing robots connected to a central controller that can adjust speed and receive feedback data from the robots. The additional information gained from these interconnected devices allows people to make more informed decisions and control devices more efficiently.

Some examples of Internet of Things devices that you might find in a home could include security cameras, a smart doorbell, a smart home controller (like an Amazon Echo™ or Google Home™3) and a smart outlet (also known as a smart plug). These devices are the "things" in the term "Internet of Things." Each of these devices connects to the others through the home Wi-Fi network, allowing them to communicate with each other and send data back and forth. If you've ever set up lighting to be connected to a smart home assistant then you've used IoT.

Outside of the home, IoT is used to improve organizational efficiency, particularly in manufacturing. For example, picture an automotive manufacturing plant. At this plant there are several robots that perform different portions of the car building process. These robots connect back to a central controller or computer and provide data such as their efficiency level, total output and any need for repairs. Using this information, a plant manager can predict when a robot will need maintenance prior to a costly breakdown.

In the simplest terms, think of the devices in your home that make it a smart home. This can include things like light bulbs, thermostats and appliances. These items can not only be operated by an app (for example, scheduling your lights to turn on every night at 7 p.m.), but also collect information, such as how long you typically keep your lights on or what time you turn them off.

When it comes to businesses, connected devices and the data they collect can help manage inventory, track fleets or maintenance schedules, automate production processes and maintain compliance standards.

There are various levels of opportunity within the IoT field such as technicians, specialists, developers and architects. Your path might start with an entry-level credential, such as a certificate in IoT. This certificate communicates to employers that you've studied the Internet of Things and are aware of how devices communicate with one another. After receiving a certificate and spending some time in the workforce, you may choose to expand your skills and knowledge with a higher-level degree such as an associate or bachelor’s. These degrees may help you prepare for more advanced opportunities.