Chemical Laboratory Technology

Traits, skills and aptitudes

Those who work in laboratory technology tend to be methodical, innovative, and objective.

You need:

• integrity and a professional attitude
• a liking for science (especially human biology) and a keen interest in scientific work
• the ability to do detailed work accurately
• good colour and form perception (to study blood cells, etc.)
• the ability to listen and speak well
• the ability to get along with different people
• the ability to adapt to change quickly and easily.

You should enjoy taking a step-by-step approach to your work, studying results and developing procedures, and using computers and instruments for accurate and precise testing. 

Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning opportunities

You’ll have the option to participate in a 12-month work term after your second semester.

During this work term, you’ll perform a chemical laboratory technology technical project in an industrial, service, government or university laboratory under the supervision of a lab supervisor.

This work term is not required to graduate from the program.

Accreditations, designations or certifications

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

Graduates can also register with the Alberta Society of Engineering Technologists and Chemical Institute of Canada. 

Credential

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

Program length

2 to 3 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)
• Supervisors, petroleum, gas and chemical processing and utilities (92011)
• Central control and process operators, petroleum, gas and chemical processing (93101)

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.

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 Laboratory Technology diploma requires 61.5 credits (21 courses) to complete.

The program spans two years, with two semesters each year. If you choose to complete the optional one-year co-op work term, the program spans three years.

Required courses

• CHEM 240 - General Chemistry 3 Credits
• CHEM 245 - Inorganic Chemistry 3 Credits
• CHEM 253 - Organic Chemistry 6 Credits
• CHEM 270 - Basic Laboratory Techniques 6 Credits
• CHEM 275 - Analytical Chemistry 1.5 Credits
• CHEM 303 - Chemometric Applications 1.5 Credits
• CHEM 325 - Technical Project Week 1.5 Credits
• CHEM 345 - Unit Chemical Process Operations 1.5 Credits
• CHEM 351 - Oil Field Chemistry and Fluids Introduction 1.5 Credits
• COMM 238 - Technical Communications I 3 Credits
• COMP 261 - Applied Digital Technologies 1.5 Credits
• ENVS 301 - Water Treatment 1.5 Credits
• ENVS 320 - Environmental Science and Ecology 3 Credits
• INST 296 - Chemical Instrumentation Theory 1.5 Credits
• INST 297 - Chemical Instrumentation Laboratory 3 Credits
• INST 300 - Applied Analytical Instrumentation I 6 Credits
• INST 396 - Applied Analytical Instrumentation II 6 Credits
• MATH 237 - Mathematics for Technologists 3 Credits
• QUAL 352 - Quality Assurance & Quality Control 3 Credits
• SFTY 201 - Chemical Safety 1.5 Credits
• THRM 318 - Thermodynamics 3 Credits

Optional courses

• CPWK 251 - Cooperative Work Term 0 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 $1,000 for the first year and $500 for 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 project management practices 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 solve applied science/ engineering technology problems.
6. Apply knowledge of management principles, ethics, sustainability, contract law, and codes.