Chemical Engineering Technology

Traits, skills and aptitudes

Those in the chemical engineering field tend to be objective, innovative and methodical.

You need:

• attention to detail
• persistence
• accuracy
• problem-solving skills
• the ability to speak and listen well
• leadership and people skills
• the ability to work on a team
• the ability to supervise others.

You should enjoy working with people, analyzing data, math, taking a methodical approach to your work and being innovative.

Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning opportunities

In your second year, you’ll participate in a capstone project where you’ll apply what you’ve learned in your classes to resolve an issue and present your work to an industry partner. 

Accreditations, designations or certifications

This program is accredited by Technology Accreditation Canada (TAC).

Graduates are eligible to register in the Alberta Society of Engineering Technologists. Periodical registration agreements exist with U.S. and British societies. 

Credential

After successfully completing this program, you’ll receive a SAIT Chemical Engineering Technology diploma.

Program length

2 years

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. 

Not eligible for CAJG

This program is not eligible for the Canada Alberta Job Grant. 

Related careers

Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education. 

Potential careers (NOC):

• Chemical technologists and technicians (22100)
• Civil engineering technologists and technicians (22300)
• Chemists (21101)
• Industrial instrument technicians and mechanics (22312)
• Drafting technologists and technicians (22212)
• Biological technologists and technicians (22110)

Admission requirements - Applicants educated in Canada

All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and meet all of the following requirements or equivalents:

• at least 60% in Math 30-1 or 75% in Math 30-2, and
• at least 60% in English Language Arts 30-1 or 75% in English Language Arts 30-2, and
• at least 60% in Chemistry 30, and
• at least 60% in Physics 20.

SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside Alberta.

Admission requirements - Applicants educated outside of Canada

All applicants who were educated outside of Canada must demonstrate English language proficiency and provide proof they meet the program admission requirements with an international document assessment. Find accepted educational documents and assessment options. 

SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.

Program outline

The Chemical Engineering Technology diploma requires 61.5 credits (24 courses) to complete.

The program spans two years, with two semesters each year.

Required courses

• CHEM 264 - Engineering Chemistry II 3 Credits
• CHEM 224 - Engineering Chemistry I 1.5 Credits
• CHEN 308 - Chemical Engineering Calculations 3 Credits
• CHEN 309 - Process Computer Simulation Lab 1.5 Credits
• CHEN 312 - Unit Operations Laboratory 1.5 Credits
• CHEN 313 - Heat Transfer 3 Credits
• CHEN 314 - Mass Transfer 3 Credits
• CHEN 350 - Analytical Instrumentation 3 Credits
• COMM 256 - Professional Communications and Presentation Skills 3 Credits
• COMP 220 - Computer Fundamentals 3 Credits
• EMTL 350 - Materials 1.5 Credits
• ENGD 275 - Flow Diagram Development and AutoCAD 1.5 Credits
• ENVS 365 - Environmental Engineering and Management 3 Credits
• FLDS 255 - Industrial Fluid Systems 3 Credits
• INRY 200 - Introduction to Chemical Engineering 1.5 Credits
• INST 256 - Instrumentation and Process Control 3 Credits
• MATH 288 - Mathematics for Engineering & Technology ll 3 Credits
• MATH 238 - Math for Engineering & Tech I 3 Credits
• OCHS 350 - Occupational Health & Safety 3 Credits
• PETR 310 - Petroleum Production 1.5 Credits
• PROJ 396 - Energy Capstone Project 3 Credits
• PROJ 327 - Technical Project Management 3 Credits
• STAT 245 - Statistics for Engineering and Technology I 3 Credits
• THRM 235 - Thermodynamics 3 Credits

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 cost approximately $1,800 in the first year and $900 in the second 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. 

PPE is required in various labs. You’ll need a lab coat and CSA-approved safety glasses (with UVEX and side shields) by the first day of class to enter the chemistry labs.

Energy program advising

For any questions or to set up an advising appointment, please contact our MacPhail School of Energy.

Phone: 403.284.8451
Email: macphail.students@sait.ca 

Program outcomes

1. Research, critically analyze, prepare, document, submit and defend a Technology Report.
2. Apply the knowledge of algebra, matrix manipulation and introductory calculus to resolve applied science/engineering technology problems.
3. Apply the knowledge of best statistical processes to resolve applied science/engineering technology problems.
4. Apply the current practices of project management to applied science and engineering technology projects consistent with the discipline requirements.
5. Apply the principles of physical and natural science, applicable to a discipline, to the solution of applied science/engineering technology problems.
6. Apply knowledge of management principles, ethics, sustainability, contract law, codes and standards.