Traits, skills and aptitudes
Those in the mechanical engineering technology field tend to be objective, innovative and methodical.
You need:
- the ability to perceive objects in 3D by looking at 2D drawings
- sketching or drawing skills
- an aptitude for math
- the ability to solve problems and think outside the box
- writing and speaking skills
- the ability to work as part of a team with minimal supervision.
You should enjoy:
- doing precise work
- obtaining and analyzing test results
- finding creative solutions to problems
- taking a methodical approach to your work
- liaising between company leadership, technical departments and the factory floor.
Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning opportunities
You’ll participate in a capstone project where you’ll work in teams to address a real-world challenge. In some cases, this project will include an industry partner.
Accreditations, designations or certifications
This program is nationally accredited by Technology Accreditation Canada (TAC).
Graduates may apply for their Certified Engineering Technologist (CET) designation after two years of appropriate work experience.
While attending SAIT, you can become members of the following societies:
- Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals (ASET)
- Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
- American Society for Quality (ASQ)
Credential
After successfully completing this program, you’ll receive a SAIT Mechanical Engineering Technology diploma with a major in Design and Analysis.
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):
- Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians (22301)
- Industrial engineering and manufacturing technologists and technicians (22302)
- Drafting technologists and technicians (22212)
- Manufacturing managers (90010)
Admission requirements - Applicants educated in Canada
Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and completion of the following courses or equivalents:
- at least 60% in Math 30-1 or at least 75% in Math 30-2, and
- at least 60% in English Language Arts 30-1 or English Language Arts 30-2, and
- at least 60% in Physics 20 and Chemistry 20 or at least 60% in Science 30.
SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside of Alberta.
Application process
When applying in the application portal, select Mechanical Engineering Technology. You will declare your major before your second year of the program.
Program outline
The Mechanical Engineering Technology diploma requires 60 credits (24 courses) to complete.
The program spans two years, with two semesters each year.
Required courses
You must take all of the following courses to complete this program.
Required courses - Mechanical engineering core
Required courses - Design and analysis core
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 $1,500 per full-time year.
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.
This is a bring-your-own-device program with a custom computer hardware and software requirement.
The preferred hardware requirements for this program are as follows:
- Intel i7 (gen 7 or newer or AMD Ryzen 7)
- 16 GB RAM or greater
- 1 TB HD or greater
- Nvidia Quadro or AMD Radeon Pro video card
- Windows 10 PC (build 1906 or higher)
There is also required software, including SolidWorks.
During the program, you will use industry-standard software. Although the minimum specification will work, we recommend the best computer you can afford.
Required equipment/tools
The required tools will be provided.
Required personal protective equipment (PPE)
Safety glasses are required on the first day of class.
Program outcomes
- Research, analyze, prepare, document, submit and present a technology report (capstone project) relating to a significant technology-related issue.
- Demonstrate capability in mathematics consistent with the discipline requirements and program objectives.
- Apply the current project management practices to applied science and engineering technology projects consistent with the discipline requirements.
- Apply the principles of physical and natural science.
- Apply the knowledge of business/management principles, ethics, sustainability, contracts, codes and standards.
- Obtain and analyze data and prepare and document data.
- Utilize computer software, hardware, and other technological tools that are appropriate and necessary to perform tasks.
- Apply health and safety practices to minimize exposure to unsafe conditions and ensure a safe working environment for oneself and co-workers.
- Mechanical machine design - analyze, design, and specify machine elements and mechanical parts.
- Prepare CAD drawings, specifications, estimates and other technical documentation.
- Fabrication processes - apply knowledge of material and engineering principles to manufacturing operations and processes.
- Applied thermodynamics - apply concepts of conduction, convection, radiation and heat transfer in analyzing properties and heat transfer problems.
- Process instrumentation and HVAC controls - design and specify automated manufacturing operations.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the properties of fluid mechanics.
- Assist in the commissioning of mechanical building systems.
- Apply the principles of project management in mechanical engineering work.
- Computer-aided engineering - use appropriate integrated asset management software.
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