Welding Engineering Technology

Traits, skills and aptitudes

Welding engineering technologists need:  

• mechanical aptitude  
• attention to detail  
• manual dexterity and good hand-eye coordination to handle tools and materials precisely 
• mathematical skills and proficiency in applying mathematical concepts such as geometry and trigonometry to practical situations 
• problem-solving ability  
• physical stamina and endurance to perform physically demanding tasks and the ability to work in various positions and environments 
• safety consciousness.

Credential

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

• Manufacturing managers (90010)
• Metallurgical and materials engineers (21322)
• Structural metal and platework fabricators and fitters (72104)
• Contractors and supervisors, machining, metal forming, shaping and erecting trades and related occupations (72010)
• Welders and related machine operators (72106)

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 30-1 or at least 70% in Math 30-2, and
• at least 50% in English Language Arts 30-1 or English Language Arts 30-2, and
• at least 50% in Chemistry 20 or Science 30.

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 Welding Engineering Technology diploma requires 60 credits (23 courses) to complete.

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

Required courses

• BLPR 282 - Blueprint Reading for Welding Engineering Technology 1.5 Credits
• CADD 211 - Drafting for Manufacturing 1.5 Credits
• CODE 315 - Codes and Regulations 3 Credits
• COMM 256 - Professional Communications and Presentation Skills 3 Credits
• COMP 220 - Computer Fundamentals 3 Credits
• EMTL 201 - Materials Identification and Inspection 1.5 Credits
• EMTL 250 - Engineering Materials 3 Credits
• EMTL 280 - Welding Metallurgy 3 Credits
• EMTL 300 - Mechanics of Materials 3 Credits
• EMTL 353 - Failure Mitigation 1.5 Credits
• INSP 341 - Non-Destructive Inspection 3 Credits
• MATH 288 - Mathematics for Engineering & Technology ll 3 Credits
• MATH 238 - Math for Engineering & Tech I 3 Credits
• MNGT 321 - Project Management 3 Credits
• PHYS 235 - Engineering Physics 1.5 Credits
• PROJ 377 - Research and Design Solutions 3 Credits
• ROBT 395 - Automated Manufacturing and Robotic Arc Welding Processes 3 Credits
• STAT 245 - Statistics for Engineering and Technology I 3 Credits
• STCS 255 - Engineering Statics 1.5 Credits
• WDSG 235 - Weld and Inspection Practices I 3 Credits
• WDSG 275 - Weld and Inspection Practices II 3 Credits
• WDSG 325 - Weld and Design Practices I 3 Credits
• WDSG 375 - Weld and Design Practices II 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 are approximately $1,600 in the first year and $1,000 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 equipment/tools

Your tools will be provided.

Required personal protective equipment (PPE)

You will require CSA-approved steel-toe boots and safety glasses, welding gloves, earplugs (supplied), a good-quality welding helmet and FR coveralls or an appropriate welding helmet. 

We recommend waiting to purchase your equipment until after you start the program. We will discuss the industry-approved PPE in class.

Manufacturing and Automation program advising

For any questions or to set up an advising appointment, please contact our School of Manufacturing and Automation.

Phone: 403.284.8641
Email: ma.info@sait.ca

Program outcomes

• Business - apply recognized business practices to support company success.
• Communication - use effective verbal, graphic, written skills and supporting technology to communicate concepts.
• Computers/automation - select appropriate computer applications and automated operating systems and processes to support the welding environment.
• Design - apply mathematical and engineering principles in the design and analysis of welded fabrications.
• Health and safety - follow and develop safe working practices, including Occupational Health and Safety regulations (OH&S).
• Material selection - apply the knowledge of material specifications and engineering principles to satisfy an intended application.
• People skills - collaborate effectively with diverse individuals and organizations to achieve goals.
• Professionalism - display professional and ethical behaviours in an appropriate manner.
• Project management - collaborate with others to coordinate and complete projects using the recognized principles of project management.
• Quality assurance - specify, coordinate and conduct quality control and quality assurance procedures.
• Weld procedures - develop, review and apply welding procedures.
• Codes and standards - interpret and apply industry codes and standards in order to comply with requirements.