You start by getting a solid knowledge of the things that don't change like math, physics, chemistry, thermodynamics, etc. You can get courses in those at any reputable school.
The rest of an education in automation is based on learning the tools available to get the job at hand done. Those vary among industries and typically aren't taught at colleges or universities, primarily because they change so frequently. I first got involved with PLCs in the early 1980s. By the time I retired in 2016 I had hands-on experience with 3 models of Modicon, 6 models of AB, 10 models of GE, 5 models of Automation Direct, and at least one model of several other brands.
And a PLC is only one of many tools you will need to be acquainted with to pursue a career in industrial automation.
If you're just starting out in a technological field, remember; the job you will retire from probably does not exist today.