May 08, 2024  
PUBLISHED 2024-2025 Credit Catalog 
    
PUBLISHED 2024-2025 Credit Catalog

Electrical Engineering Technology

Location(s): In Person (Main Campus), Blended (Main Campus & Online)


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The Electrical Engineering Technology program will equip you with a diverse skill set in the dynamic field of electrical engineering.

This robust program is your conduit to a future in both renewable and conventional energy. It lays a foundation for lifelong learning, allowing you to keep pace with rapidly evolving electrical engineering technologies.

You will:

  • gain a deep understanding of electricity and power generation, transmission and distribution systems, including the integration of renewable energy sources
  • learn the principles of electrical circuit design and apply them to create efficient, safe and reliable electrical systems
  • master the technologies and electronics that automate processes and control systems, which are essential for modern industrial operations
  • get hands-on experience in labs that simulate real-world electrical engineering challenges
  • develop project management skills specific to electrical engineering projects, including planning, execution and quality control
  • become well-versed in industry standards and codes, including national and international electrical codes and standards, to ensure compliance in all aspects of your work.

Prepare for the workforce with professional skills training, including communication, teamwork and problem-solving. Connect with industry professionals through internships, co-op placements and industry-sponsored projects.

Explore electrical engineering career opportunities across various sectors, such as utility companies, electrical equipment manufacturers and industrial automation firms.

This program is designed for those who envision a career where they can contribute to the efficient use of energy, support the development of smart grids, and innovate within electrical design and automation sectors.

As a graduate, you will be prepared to step into construction, operation and infrastructure maintenance roles. With additional education and experience, you can move into manager, inspector or power system electrician roles.

Flexible learning options

This program may be taken in a blended delivery format to allow you the flexibility to work while studying. 

This option is available beginning in July (summer semester) each year and spans three years. Classes in this cohort are held online in the evenings and on weekends. 

Journeyperson electricians may be eligible for course credit and can begin classes in September (fall semester.) 

Traits, skills and aptitudes


Those who work in electrical engineering tend to be objective, innovative and methodical.

You need:

  • the ability to adapt to change and adopt new ideas
  • an aptitude in math and science, particularly physics
  • the ability to study and interpret plans and diagrams, solve problems with circuits, and test materials and products
  • leadership skills and the ability to work well with others as part of a team
  • speaking and writing skills.

In some positions, good colour vision is important.

You should enjoy working with tools, computers, instruments and machinery, being precise and methodical in your work, and finding creative solutions to problems. 

Academic path


Journeyperson electricians and those with related work experience or post-secondary education may be eligible to receive some advance credit for courses in this program.

Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning opportunities


As part of your final capstone project, you’ll work in groups to apply what you’ve learned to address an industry-related technical problem.

Your team’s work will be supervised by an instructor and industry mentor. Each team will showcase their work at an event open to faculty, other students and invited industry professionals. 

Accreditations, designations or certifications


This program is nationally accredited by Technology Accreditation Canada (TAC) and the Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists at the technologist level.

Graduates are eligible for membership in the Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals of Alberta (ASET.) 

Credential


After successfully completing this program, you’ll receive a SAIT Electrical 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)

  • Electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians (22310)
  • Electrical and electronics engineers (21310)
  • Engineering managers (20010)
  • Power system electricians (72202)
  • Power engineers and power systems operators (92100)
  • Contractors and supervisors, electrical trades and telecommunications occupations (72011)

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 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 Electrical Engineering Technology diploma requires 67.5 credits (25 courses) to complete.

You can study full-time during the day and complete the program over two years, with two semesters each year.

Or, you can study evenings and weekends as part of a blended stream and complete the program over three years, with seven semesters. Fewer courses are scheduled each semester. Some take place online, while others occur on campus. 

Suggested schedule of study


Daytime - two-year program


Evening/weekend (blended) - three-year program


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 $1,000 for the first year and $500 for the 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)

PPE is required in various labs. You’ll need CSA-approved (green triangle) protective footwear and CSA Z94.3 (class 1) safety glasses with side shields.

The industry-approved PPE you’ll need will be discussed during your first few days of classes. 

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, analyze, prepare, document, submit and present a technology report (capstone project) relating to a significant technology-related issue.
  2. Demonstrate capability (in one or more of the following areas described below) consistent with the discipline requirements and program objectives.
  • Apply the basic knowledge of algebra, matrix manipulation, trigonometry and introductory calculus to resolve applied science and engineering technology problems, and/or
  • Apply the knowledge of statistical processes, and/or
  • Apply the knowledge of advanced algebra, integral and differential calculus methodologies, and/or
  • Apply the knowledge of discrete/finite mathematics and logic systems.
  1. Apply the current project management practices to applied science and engineering technology projects consistent with the discipline requirements.
  2. Apply the principles of physical and natural science.
  3. Apply the knowledge of business/management principles, ethics, sustainability, contract law, codes and standards.
  4. Obtain and analyze data, and prepare and document data.
  5. Utilize computer software, hardware and other technological tools appropriate and necessary to the performance of tasks.
  6. Apply health and safety practices knowledge to minimize exposure to unsafe conditions and ensure a safe working environment for oneself and co-workers.

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