Traits, skills and aptitudes
Those working as automotive service technicians tend to be objective, innovative and methodical.
You need:
- an Alberta driver’s license
- good hearing, eyesight and manual dexterity
- mechanical aptitude and interest
- a working knowledge of electricity, electronics and computers
- customer service skills.
You should enjoy performing tasks that require precision, working with your hands and working independently.
Academic path
This program aligns with the Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) curriculum for Automotive Service Technicians, periods one through four.
Graduates are eligible to challenge the technical training exams.
Upon passing, you can register as an apprentice and complete the on-the-job training hours to earn your journeyperson designation. Graduates are eligible to receive a 156-hour, on-the-job training credit towards each of the four periods of the Automotive Service Technician apprenticeship.
Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning opportunities
In the second year of this program, you’ll participate in a capstone project where you’ll work in teams to complete research, collect and analyze data and produce a project proposal.
Your team will then execute your proposal, develop progress reports, and a final report and present your outcomes and findings.
Accreditations, designations or certifications
The Automotive Service Technology program aligns with the Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) training curriculum for Automotive Service Technician periods one through four. Graduates are eligible to challenge all four exams. The pass mark for apprenticeship exams is 70%.
Graduates are also eligible to receive a 156-hour, on-the-job training credit towards each of the four periods of the Automotive Service Technician apprenticeship.
Credential
Upon successfully completing this program, you’ll be awarded a SAIT Automotive Service Technology diploma.
Accepts international applicants - PGWP-eligible
This program accepts international applicants and meets the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program, as long as the student is registered in on-campus classes or completes more than 50% of the courses on campus (for blended options).
International students attending all classes online will NOT be eligible for a Post-Graduate Work Permit. International students are responsible for maintaining their eligibility throughout their studies.
Related careers
Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education.
Potential careers (NOC):
- Contractors and supervisors, mechanic trades (72020)
- Automotive service technicians, truck and bus mechanics and mechanical repairers (72410)
- Auto body collision, refinishing and glass technicians and damage repair estimators (72411)
- Electrical mechanics (72422)
- Motorcycle, all-terrain vehicle and other related mechanics (72423)
- Automotive and heavy truck and equipment parts installers and servicers (74203)
Admission requirements - Applicants educated in Canada
Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and completion of the following courses or equivalents:
- at least 50% in Math 20-1 or 20-2 or 20-3, and
- at least 50% in English Language Arts 30-1 or 30-2, and
- at least 50% in a Grade 11 science.
SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside Alberta.
Program outline
The Automotive Service Technology program requires 60 credits (20 courses) to complete.
The program spans two years, with two semesters each year.
Suggested schedule of study
Progression
You must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better each semester and pass the prerequisite courses to progress through the program.
To qualify for graduation, you must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.
Review our grading and progression procedure >
Books and supplies
Books and supplies are approximately $450 per full-time year.
This is a bring-your-own-device program with a standard computer hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.
Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore’s website. The booklist will be available closer to the program start date. Can’t find your program or course? The bookstore didn’t receive a textbook list. Contact your program directly to determine if they’re still refining course details or if you’re in luck; no textbook purchase is required this term.
Required personal protective equipment (PPE)
The industry-approved PPE you’ll need will be discussed during your first few days of classes.
You will need:
- CSA-approved steel-toe boots and safety glasses
- welding gloves
- earplugs (supplied)
- coveralls.
Service technician coveralls will be available for purchase at the start of the semester. Tools will be provided.
Required equipment/tools
Tools will be provided throughout your program.
A driver’s license and the ability to maneuver a vehicle in tight spaces and drive a manual transmission vehicle are highly recommended to succeed in this program and industry.
Transportation program advising
For any questions or to set up an advising appointment, please contact our School of Transportation.
Phone: 403.284.8471
Email: transportation.info@sait.ca
Program outcomes
Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:
- perform automotive diagnostic tests, interpret results, and solve problems
- perform repairs, services and maintenance of light vehicles following service information and procedures using appropriate tools
- demonstrate the ability to use common equipment in the automotive repair industry
- challenge all four Alberta Provincial Automotive Service Technician Apprenticeship exams.
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